Gillian Mckechnie
(she/her)
Gillian began her dance journey in Aberdeen, where she spent most of her childhood attending various dance classes at a local dance school. Her passion for dance deepened when she joined Fusion Youth Dance Company at Citymoves Dance Agency, inspiring her to pursue a career in the field.
To further her ambitions, Gillian studied at the Scottish School of Contemporary Dance for four years. During this time she discovered her passion for teaching and community work, motivating her to follow this path after completing her formal education. She secured an internship with Citymoves where she honed her skills as a dance artist. In 2015, during her internship, Gillian was awarded a Creative Travel Award from Aberdeen City Council enabling her to broaden her knowledge and experience as a dance artist in Calgary, Canada. It was there that she learned how to deliver Dance for Parkinson’s, an experience that would shape her future career.
Upon returning from Calgary in 2016, Gillian embarked on her career as a dance artist, working with various dance companies across Scotland in both community and educational settings. It was during this period that her journey with Shaper/Caper began. She joined the team as a dance artist, contributing to projects such as Well Good and The Love Life Project while also teaching weekly children’s classes. Gillian served as the Artistic Director for Fusion Youth Dance Company from 2016 to 2021 further cementing her influence within the community.
In 2021 Gillian began working with YDance on their Step It Up Education Programme which was designed to help primary school teachers deliver dance classes aligned with the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence. She continues to contribute to YDance’s engagement team delivering programs across a variety of settings, including community centers, schools, prisons, alternative education and secure centers. Gillian is passionate about empowering individuals and enhancing lives through dance.
Gillian rejoined Shaper/Caper in 2024 as the Engagement Coordinator. In this role she leads the Dance for Parkinson's project, facilitates sessions at the Dundee Bella Centre and develops innovative creative experiences for the company. She is thrilled to continue her journey with Shaper/Caper and looks forward to embracing the exciting opportunities ahead.
