We want as many people as possible to experience dance. Through our Get into Dance programme, the communities we work with share their time, talent and creativity through our weekly dance programmes led by a range of professional dancers. We co-produce our engagement activities with local community centres in East London and Islington, so that they continue to reflect our diverse communities that are reflected on our artistic stages.

The Get into Dance Festival brings together communities in East London and Islington through the joy of dance. The co-designed programs with community partners demonstrate a collaborative effort to engage local residents and connect them with Sadler’s Wells ahead of the new building opening in Stratford. It creates a platform for celebration and visibility for dance and communities that may go unnoticed.

The inclusion of a diverse range of dance styles in the 14-week program, from jazz and rumba to contemporary and Afro Caribbean dance, showcases the richness of cultural influences in the area. The involvement of choreographers like Sonia Illesca, Luanda Pau, Maikel Martinez, Sophie Nüezel, Leila Jassal, Sarah Lisney, Abisola Ali, Julene Robinson, Sam Francis, and Showmi Das demonstrates a commitment to bringing experienced and talented individuals to guide the participants.

The Get into Dance Festival not only provides an opportunity for skill development but also fosters a sense of community and cultural exchange. By making dance accessible to residents and showcasing the talents of local choreographers, it contributes to the visibility of dance and the communities involved.

The festival brings people together through the universal language of dance, fostering connections, and celebrating the vibrant cultural tapestry of East London and Islington. The festival is not just a showcase of dance but also a celebration of the hidden talents and stories within the community.

With thanks to our partners
Brickworks Community Centre, EKTA Project at Trinity Centre, Hibiscus Caribbean Elderly Association, Pembury Community Centre, St Hilda’s East Community Centre, St Luke’s Community Centre and X7even Performing Arts.

The Posh Club is a social, dancing and showbiz event for swanky senior citizens, elegant elders & golden girls The day club for older people is styled as a tongue-in-cheek ‘posh’ 1940’s afternoon tea with live shows, volunteer waiters in black tie, vintage crockery and an a DJ. Held in heart of the community in elegantly transformed church halls and other grass roots spaces in London, England and Wales. This event emphasises dressing up, regular access to live performance, social connectivity and intergenerational volunteering.

A smaller, ‘scones only’ version will be presented as part of Elixir festival in the mezzanine at Sadlers Wells for an invited only audience of regular Posh Club members who have not visited Sadler’s Wells before. Hosted by Azara, and starring dynamic dance duo Pink Suits, Birmingham’s finest crooner Don One and the in-house dance troupe Posh Club x Dance Club. This event also includes tea, coffee, scones with cream and jam and a glass of bubbly.