DanceEast

DanceEast presents a diverse programme of performances that includes national and international dance artists and companies, emerging artists and young people.  A range of support is provided for artists at all stages of their career, including an Associate Artists scheme and a Choreographic Development Fund.  The organisation works in partnership with other national venues, to develop the breadth and appeal of dance for young people and families; and is also a partner in the European DanceHouse Network, which works to increase opportunities for artists and audiences. 

Prior to Covid-19, DanceEast ran approximately 50 classes each week in various dance styles for fun, fitness and professional development and is re-establishing a new offer over the next 3-6 months.  DanceEast is also home to one of nine Centres for Advanced Training in Dance supported by the Department for Education to enable young people with exceptional potential in dance to work towards a professional career.

DanceEast maintains a commitment to rural communities across East Anglia, running programmes and projects in schools, health and community settings in and beyond Ipswich and programming in partnership with events and festivals and other venues beyond the DanceHouse.

The organisation works extensively in education and community outreach - involving people of all ages and abilities. In 2019/20 there were almost 43,000 attendances in participatory activities throughout Suffolk and the East of England. The past 5 years has seen some exciting organisational developments using new technologies - including virtual teaching, Augmented Reality, Volumetric Capture and 5G. In 2020 a digital broadcast suite, with green screen facility and associated filming and editing equipment, was installed in the building. 

DanceEast supports innovation and the development of new dance work by artists - whether it is training, creation or performance. The previous cohort of Associate Artists, who joined the organisation in April 2018, included Tim Casson, Julie Cunningham and Joseph Toonga; and Kaia Goodenough as a Junior Associate Artist. A new cohort of artists will join the programme this year. Over 30 artists and companies are supported each year, in addition to the Associate Artists, with advice and guidance, studio space and production time, commissions and programming opportunities. 

DanceEast is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee and is grateful for the support of Arts Council England, Suffolk County Council and Ipswich Borough Council, a range of trusts and foundations and the many individuals who all contribute to the vibrancy of DanceEast’s extensive programme of excellent dance experiences.

The organisation has an annual turnover of approximately £1,800,000.  The Jerwood DanceHouse comprises 4 dance studios; a studio theatre; digital and zoom suites; offices and meeting rooms; and a café.  DanceEast has a core staff team of 26 full-time and part-time staff, plus approximately 25 freelance tutors, etc.  

Further information about DanceEast can be found at: www.danceeast.co.uk