After the devastating loss of £192,000 of annual Arts Council England funding, a Herefordshire dance company is showcasing 192 reasons why its still in it for the long haul.
2Faced Dance Company, an all-male dance company that also runs community classes regionally, has launched the fundraising #192reasonswhy campaign and vowed to spend six months highlighting rich stories and moments from the organisation’s 23 year history.
It’s already showcased the fact 2Faced productions have toured 22 countries, celebrated The BENCH - a programme that supported women choreographers; and reshared short films they made with young people during the pandemic.
Funding changes
There will soon be 990 cultural and creative organisations funded through Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisation and Investment Principles Support Organisations programme; that’s £446 million of taxpayer and Lottery money invested to arts, heritage and culture every year. November’s announcement was a huge relief for many, but a bitter blow for quite a few. More than 700 applications for 2023-2026 were unsuccessful.
When news came that 2Faced would not be included in the 2024-2027 funding round - meaning they will no longer receive the £192,000 of annual funding previously provided by ACE - Alex Green, Chair of the dance org, said: “As a company we have faced huge challenges over the last few years during the pandemic, yet despite this we have diversified our offer, cemented our position as a leading contemporary dance company, and played a pivotal role working nationally and locally to ensure the recovery of our sector.
“Our first priority will be to support our staff and identify a sustainable way forward that ensures 2Faced Dance remains true to its vision and purpose.”
The response to #192reasonswhy has been loud and proud, with 2Faced beneficiaries and friends already donating £2,000+ cash and lending their support across social.
To join the campaign, head to www.2faceddance.co.uk/support-give.
Main image credit: Marta May