Midlands dance organisations to merge

Dance4 and DanceXchange are merging into a new, "more ambitious" organisation.

FABRIC will combine the organisations’ skills and expertise and free up resources to "actively invest" in artists and programmes.  

The two have worked together since 2017 and believe the move will help develop talent in the Midlands, encourage creative leadership and promote dance in public life.

"This new approach will breathe new life into dance," Dance4 CEO and upcoming FABRIC CEO Paul Russ said.

The merger will take effect from mid-April, with DanceXchange Interim CEO Debbie Jardine stepping down. FABRIC will keep both partners' buildings in Nottingham and Birmingham open, "building on the programmes and audiences of Dance4 and DanceXchange in these locations and beyond".

Russ commented: "We’re taking a bold step to a new future, seizing the moment to build on our collective knowledge and success, and the legacy of major events in the region to realise new opportunities and growth for dance."