A former Clarendon Sixth Form College performing arts student starred in the Paralympics homecoming ceremony.

Joseph Powell-Main danced on stage at the national event, to welcome home Paralympic athletes who competed at the delayed Tokyo 2020 Games.

Joseph is a differently abled dancer who performs with a wheelchair. After suffering an injury which left him with mobility issues, Joseph discovered wheelchair dancing and studied a level 3 in performing arts at the Ashton-based college.

After completing a degree programme at the Arden School of Theatre, he is now working with the award-winning Ballet Cymru in Wales.

Joseph performed a bespoke piece during the national event, which took place at Wembley Stadium, accompanied by singer Birdy and the prestigious Royal Ballet. He is the first dancer using a wheelchair and crutches to perform with the ballet.

Joseph said: “The teachers at Clarendon Sixth Form College helped me to rediscover my original love for dance. They were instrumental in helping me get on the right path to become a professional, differently abled, ballet dancer." 

Michelle Forrest, performing arts teacher at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “I am incredibly proud of Joseph and the journey that he has been on. He has worked so hard to achieve his dream of performing professionally and it was a delight to watch him perform with the Royal Ballet. I am excited to see where his journey takes him next!” 

Images credit: Paralympics GB

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