Dumfries and Galloway is a region built by communities with a strong history of grassroots arts projects.

Dumfries and Galloway Dance aims to grow and support the region’s dance ecosystem by ensuring that residents have access to watch dance regularly and actively supporting a clear career progression for local young people who are interested in pursuing a career in dance, whether that be as a dancer, photographer, journalist or many of the other roles in the sector.

We aim to increase access and create space for a dance community to grow. Initially between September 2020 to December 2021 we will be:

  • Develop a Young Dancers Mentorship Programme, for young people aged 18-25

  • Create a region-wide Youth Dance Company, for young people aged 12-18

  • Grow the community that comes together to watch dance

  • Grow strong partnerships with venues and organisations across the region, as the basis for our future touring collective

The long-term vision of Dumfries and Galloway Dance is to create a progression route for dancers interested in pursuing a professional career in dance, create a year round programme of dance for the local community and to amplify the great work that already exists in the region. 

Who We Are

Initiated by Gretna born Dance Artist Emma Jayne Park, the project is delivered by an active team invested in growing a thriving dance community across Dumfries and Galloway.  We believe in the power of bringing together the brilliant activity that already happens here and are excited about creating further opportunities to promote the region as a home for dance.

The team:
Artistic Director: Emma Jayne Park
Project Manager: Nicola Shields
Project Administrator: Rheanna-Marie Hall
Strategic Support: Kathryn Welch
Youth Dance Artist: James Fogerty

Who we work with:
Dumfries and Galloway Dance is currently run in association with A’ the Airts, Dumfries Theatre Royal, Millenium Arts Centre, The Stove, Wigtown Book Festival and Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival. Supported by Creative Scotland, Dance Base and The Holywood Trust.