Additional Support Needs

Take a look at our guide for your first visit to Dance City here: Guide to DC

Welcome to Dance City where you can realise your dancing dreams. Dance City is your space to learn, relax, get fit, meet new people and be inspired. We offer a vibrant timetable of classes, one-off workshops, the largest programme of dance performance outside of London and  formal, professional, dance training at from age 10 to postgraduate level through our Training Academy.

We’re committed to dance reaching as many people as possible and we celebrate diversity. Our building is fully accessible and all our classes, performances and activities are accessible to people of all abilities. Please contact a member of our Ticket Office team for advice in person, by calling 0191 261 0505 or by emailing info@dancecity.co.uk

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

First Steps

We pride ourselves on being for everyone so even if you’ve never danced before you’re welcome here. If you want to dance but don’t know where to start why not pick up the phone to talk to one our friendly dance experts in the Ticket Office? They can guide you through choosing the perfect class for you and get you booked in. People with additional support needs can join any class in the programme and we’re happy to discuss your access needs in advance to ensure the best experience for you.

The In Motion class is a fun, creative expressive class specifically for adults with additional needs, learning and physical disabilities. The Contemporary Performance Group is a regular chance to work towards performance opportunities and  is fully inclusive.

How it works

All classes are drop-in so you can join at any point in the term. Classes can be pre-booked so we’d recommend doing this in advance to avoid disappointment on the day. Dancecity.co.uk has lots of detail on each class (more than we can fit in the brochure), the level of experience you do or don’t need and advises on any specific clothing or footwear requirements.

Taking your first class

When you arrive please pop into the Ticket Office to be marked off on our register. Please let your teacher know if you have any health issues, injuries or are pregnant before the class. Please arrive in plenty of time, latecomers may not be admitted as we don’t want you to miss the warm-up.

Next Steps

After your first class you’ll receive a follow-up questionnaire, it’s really helpful for us to know we’re giving you the best experience possible so please complete it. If you’re not sure the class was for you then don’t despair, please talk to the Ticket Office and they’ll help you find another option. If you’ve found the right class for you then hooray!

PERFORMANCES

We’re the North East’s leading theatre for dance and have the UK’s biggest dance performance programme outside London. We show a wide range of work and whether you’re a regular dance attender or completely new to dance we’ve got something for you.

Enjoy more for less by taking advantage of our  offer – receive 20% off when you book 2 or more shows. You can also see shows for just £9.50 or £8 for students and under 18s.

Join us for a free post-show talk and hear more about the works from the companies, choreographers and dancers themselves. Talks last just 15 minutes and usually take place on the opening night. Check website listings for details.

FREEDOM MOVING

FREEDOM MOVING is an exciting partnership with Liberdade Community Development Trust that celebrates and showcases dance and physical theatre work produced by the learning disabled community in the North East.

The FREEDOM MOVING platform supports groups who actively promote and develop dance work for people of all ages with learning difficulties and additional needs. Celebrating dance and physical theatre, groups are given the opportunity to perform in a professional space, be inspired and see each other’s work. This performance offers an exciting opportunity for a public audience to engage with this vibrant cultural scene.

Our first FREEDOM MOVING event took place in Nov 2014 and is now an annual. We invite SEN schools and adult groups to get involved too. Find full details on FREEDOM MOVING and how to take part here. 

FACILITIES

  • Fully accessible building – see the full access guide at disabledgo.com
  • Induction loop at Ticket Office counter
  • Buddy service if you’re unsure or would like someone to guide you through your first visit (contact Ticket Office to schedule in advance)
  • Free wifi throughout the building (ask at Ticket Office for the password)
  • No quibbles guarantee – if for any reason you’re not happy with your experience just let us know with 7 days and we’ll give you a full refund