An award-winning, female-led dance group is rehearsing hard ahead of their performance as part of Liverpool’s Lunar New Year celebrations later this month.
Movema, which is based in Liverpool and Bristol, are stalwarts of the events, and this year marks their 16th appearance.
Mersey News Live went to meet the group as they practiced their routine late into the evening on Monday at 24 Hope Street Studio. The 2026 show features a fusion of cultures and experiences coming together to celebrate and honour the new year.
Pei Yee Tong, Co-founder and Project Manager of Movema, said: “It is important to be seen in a space that also celebrates together.”
@merseynewslive Join Movema’s behind the scenes rehearsal ahead of the Chinese New Year festival! @movemadance chinesenewyear dance behindthescenes charity community
Movema focuses on representation in the community. Founded back in 2009, it has created a mix of modern and traditional dance, with a fresh energy to make a big impact in the community. Pei described how it is important for a local dance company to have visibility and for the community dancers to perform and reach more people. They create ideas with local participants designing the dance, music and costumes together.
Pei said: “We encourage everyone to come and join and then learn about different cultures, different dance styles, and there must be one that suits someone.”
The charity has designed the dance for both experienced and first-time dancers, with choreographer Pei describing a “cheekiness” appearing in rehearsals.
Pei described her favourite moment at rehearsal: “I think it’s amazing that they bring their own style into the dance. That is my proudest moment as a teacher solely.”
This year will be the year of the horse, which symbolises freedom, energy, initiative and bold action in the Chinese zodiac signs. Pei described how it is the year to get your projects started and make your dreams a reality.
Movema can be seen this weekend as they dance through Liverpool One on the 14th February between 1.30-3pm.
They will be back to celebrate Chinese New Year on the 22nd of February at 1.30-2.45pm at the bombed out church and at 3.45pm at St George Square’s main stage.
Mersey News Live asked some dancers what this Year of the Horse means to them. Watch the video to hear their answers:
