I am running the Asics 10k around London Parks on 12 July (THIS SUNDAY) to raise money for Candoco Dance Company's brand new Disabled Dancer Apprentice Scheme.

Candoco is the company of disabled and non-disabled dancers that performs around the World to massive acclaim and thousands of people each year. Since its inception in 1991 Candoco has actively campaigned to expand the possibilities of disabled artists interested in dance, and to enrich the dance experience by including disabled artists.  You may have seen the company performing at the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics closing ceremonies.

Candoco is a fantastic organisation, I have seen first hand the opportunities that have been created and difference they have made to lives. They do this whilst maintaining exceptionally high quality of artistic output, which I have enjoyed watching on many occasions.

There is currently no dance training accessible to disabled young people wanting to train as dancers.  Candoco have several schemes in place to try to change this situation. It is currently planning to set up its own Apprentice Scheme, starting in January 2010.

The Apprentice Scheme will provide a structured opportunity for learning, ensuring the maximum is achieved for disabled young people. It will help dancers to be in a stronger position to create and look for opportunities in the competitive dance market and it will mean that Candoco’s expertise will be instrumental in enabling the arts sector to embrace diversity.

I have not done a huge amount of training, so IT IS GOING TO HURT! Please make it worthwhile by donating whatever you can however small.

Thank you very much.

Tom

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So please dig deep and donate now.