One Dance UK recently held an exclusive and unique photography exhibition, ‘Beyond Borders – Great Women in Dance’, in order to celebrate these females.
From some of the UK’s most renowned dance companies, to freelance dance artists across all genres of the artform, the significant influence of international artists is an integral part of the UK’s cultural fabric. Amongst them, two of the UK’s national dance companies which were founded by female immigrants – The Royal Ballet companies by Ireland’s Ninette de Valois, and Rambert by Poland’s Marie Rambert.
This photographic exhibition, displayed in the 12 Star Gallery at Europe House, celebrated the creativity and cultural diversity that is the hallmark of the European Union, and marks the rich cultural exchange between the UK, Europe and the rest of the world during a significant time of change in the UK’s relationship with its neighbours, and highlights the importance of international cultural exchange to the health of the dance sector. A poignant move in light of Brexit.
The exhibition was organised by One Dance UK with the kind support of Jane Pritchard, John Travis and the European Commission Representation in the UK. The photography was drawn from the collection of John Travis, and the BBO Dance collection.
One Dance UK is the sector support organisation leading the way to a stronger, more vibrant and diverse dance sector. It provides membership packages for a range of individuals and organisations to support, advise and connect people across the dance sector. Overall, the aim is to create a workforce that is well-equipped to secure dance’s prominence in the cultural landscape of the future.