Community Dance
Creating a Movement
We are passionate about the benefits of dance on quality of life. Dance is a fantastic form of expression. Alongside physical benefits such as improved strength, stamina, and stability, dance can help improve creativity, confidence, communication, concentration, and a sense of community.
Our specialist team teach a wide range of dance styles. They are experienced in providing dance for disabled children and adults, people with long-term health conditions, and using dance to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of people from disadvantaged, and underserved communities.
Programmes
Our Work with the Community
We create dance classes and courses for all ages and abilities. We also tailor dance programmes and produce innovative projects for specific groups. We provide inclusive training for teachers, coaches, and apprentices. We work with a wide range of partners from local authorities, schools and colleges, health and social care, the arts, sport and leisure who recognise the impact of dance, creativity and physical activity in our lives.
Here are just some examples of our work.
Local Authorities
In partnership with Westminster City, we provided over 100 hours of free dance for disabled children and adults, culminating in a 'Strictly' inspired Dance Westminster competition.
Older People
We have delivered a series of dance programmes for older people with dementia. Our fun sessions also provided a social outlet for families and included a performance for the local Mayor.
Wheelchair Dance
Our wheelchair dance programmes have supported students of all levels to dance, learn choreography and perform. Our students have performed at local and national arts venues and festivals.
Youth Groups
We have worked with community youth groups to deliver classes, holiday programmes, and performances. We have also created inclusive competitions for the School Games.
Public Workshops
We delivered a series of outdoor mass public workshops for the National Theatre. We enjoy getting people dancing in open spaces, from the local park to the Olympic Park.
Sight Loss Programme
Supported by the Mayor of London, with London Vision, we created a dance programme for people with sight loss. Participants achieved the milestone of passing their first ever dance exam.
Public Libraries
We have provided dance sessions for children in public libraries using the stories they are reading for inspiration. We work with schools to tailor our content to the curriculum and are an Artsmark Partner.
Healthcare Support
In partnership with hospitals, hospices and primary care centres, we have delivered seated dance programmes for patients, and respite programmes for families and carers.
Professional Dance
Showcasing Talent
We produce original, innovative dance performances that showcases diverse, world-class talent. We collaborate with brilliant artists and choreographers to create ambitious work that crosses traditional boundaries in dance. We recognise potential and create platforms for new, and aspiring artists. We present work nationally and internationally, in partnership with leading arts venues.
Through our work, we want to inspire more diverse dance programming, opportunities for artists, and audience engagement. As part of our performance work, we provide community workshops, topical discussion, and other opportunities to connect with dance.
Productions
On Stage and Screen
'Go big or go home' is how one of our artists described our approach to performance. We work with dedicated dancers and choreographers who bring an open mind, creative curiosity, and spirit of collaboration to our creations.
Here are a few highlights from our work.
Fusion
Step Change Studios made its professional debut with 'Fusion', the UK's first inclusive Latin and Ballroom dance showcase at leading dance venue Sadler's Wells, London. Supported by Dance Enterprise Ideas Fund, and Arts Council England.
Fairy Tales
Step Change studios returned to Sadler's Wells with 'FairyTales'. The show brought together a diverse cast of 20 artists to present dynamic, captivating dance, placing creativity and storytelling at its heart. Supported by Arts Council England.
Breaking Ballroom
Produced by Dragana Njegic, this film follows the story of Step Change Studios and challenges perceptions of who can dance. Breaking Ballroom was selected for film festivals in London, Berlin, Istanbul, and New York.
Forward Motion
This US-UK collaboration brought together dancers from both sides of the Atlantic to create new work for the international dance festival Forward Motion held in the United States. Supported by Arts Council England, National Endowment for the Arts, and Knight Foundation.
Our Supporters
Moving Together
We are able to turn ambition into action thanks to the support of our funders, partners, and volunteers. We are committed to better practice through our membership of leading organisations. We are proud to be part of an active, creative community, working together to make a positive impact.
