West End talents unite to create a new original song and dance film Hush

Photo credit: Peter Saunders

West End performers and artists at the Royal Ballet have made a new original song and dance film, entitled Hush.

The film shines a spotlight on the importance of positive mental health in the current climate and aims to raise awareness about the UK’s booming arts sector, particularly during what is such a concerning time for the industry.

Written by Kath Haling with additional musical arrangements by Harry Haden-Brown, Hush features vocals by The Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables performer, Leo Miles. It has been choreographed by former First Artist of the Royal Ballet, Erico Montes, and features Royal Ballet dancers: Benjamin Ella, Harry Churches and Giacomo Rovero.

Writer Kath Haling said: “2020 has been an extremely chaotic and challenging year with many people feeling anxious about factors beyond their control. Add to this the noise from social media and pressure of so-called ‘toxic-productivity’, there is little respite from what can all-too-often feel like a tsunami of pressure and negativity. The idea for ‘Hush’ came from a need to find peace and quiet in amongst the overwhelming ‘noise’ felt by many during lockdown.

“We wanted to help people remember that no matter how chaotic and overwhelming things can feel, we have the power within ourselves to take a moment, sit still and breathe. ‘Hush’ is about the understanding that finding that sense of peace is never out of our reach.”

Choreographer Erico Montes added: “After months of doing ballet classes alone in my living room, it was very special to work again with fellow dancers and performers. I was inspired by Kath’s lyrics which talk about a yearning for space as well as physical and mental freedom – something we can all relate to, most especially during lockdown.”

In creating this work, the creative team would like to support Acting For Others and encourage those who can to please make a donation here.

To watch Hush, please click here.