On Saturday 7th October, 2Faced Dance Company will participate in the Men’s Health: Survival of the Fittest Challenge to raise £3,000 for gifted and talented young dancers based in rural Herefordshire.

Over the last 16 years, 2Faced Dance Company has provided an essential life line for young people based in Herefordshire, with one school reporting that they had an 83% increase of attendance due to a 2FD project. Furthermore, just under 50% of 2FD Youth Academy have gone on to train at the country’s leading dance institutes or have a career in the performing arts.

2Faced Youth Academy provides a positive outlet for young people living in rural  communities with little access to arts and culture. However 2FD have received multiple cuts over the last 4 years and are facing further cuts in the following 4 years. As a result we are calling on the help of the community to ensure the sustainability of the Youth Academy and make certain that young people have access to the highest possible dance training that can transform their lives.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DANCE?

Taking part in dance classes helps improve the physical and mental wellbeing of students, according to research from the Institute for Voluntary Action Research. The researchers found that of the young people who participate in dance classes 88% feel better able to express themselves and 75% feel more physically fit.

Dance helps with a sense of body awareness, confidence and social skills. It allows for creative expression and individuality whilst providing exercise and healthy living. Dance allows room for creative thinking and the acceptance of varied concepts, it stimulates the intellect. It can foster a sense of peace and allow young people to express their inner selves in a fun, energetic and engaging way that is non-judgmental.

Young people are amongst those in the community who are most disadvantaged, socially and culturally, by the dispersed population and rural nature of Herefordshire, the limitations of public transport, rural poverty and the comparative lack of cultural diversity.

HOW WILL THE FUNDS BE SPENT?

* Ensuring the programme is sustainable throughout 2017-2018

* Inviting the very best guest teachers to deliver master classes and workshops

* Theatre trips and activities to enrich their experience

* Providing a safe and warm space for the activity to take place in

* Showcase opportunities so that participants can gain performance experience.