Led by former dancer, choreographer and current senior arts and cultural leader, David Watson, Liverpool Dances is a research and development initiative aimed at unravelling the vibrant tapestry of dance in Liverpool and establishing a new future for dance in the city, that is fit-for-purpose, impactful and sustainable.

Liverpool's dance sector is an integral part of our cultural landscape, contributing to our identity and fostering creativity, however, over the last few years, there has been a noticeable decline, by many in the sector, in dance programming for audiences, opportunities for artists and practitioners, funding and partnership support.

To address these challenges and unlock the full potential of Liverpool's dance sector, we are embarking on a comprehensive research project, with the support of Liverpool City Council and Culture Liverpool, along with the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority as the lead authority.

There needs to be significant improvements in the Liverpool dance sector to maximise the opportunities that dance can and does have as part of a cultural city, and to enhance the cities effectiveness as the destination to undertake professional training, secure well-paid and consistent opportunities for artists and practitioners as well as opportunities to experience and participate in high-quality dance activity for audiences, of all ages and abilities.

This project aims to delve deep into the pulse of the city's dance sector, understanding its rhythms, uncovering its challenges and identifying the needs of current and future dance organisations, artists, practitioners and students as well as audiences. We’ll also be engaging with the cities vast array of arts, heritage and cultural organisations, schools, colleges and universities, who collectively, are integral to the future success of Liverpool’s dance ecology.  

A vibrant dance ecology requires adequate infrastructure therefore we’ll also be looking at current provision around dance facilities, funding and partnerships and identifying needs for the future.

By comprehensively understanding its current state [the dance ecology], we aim to lay the groundwork for strategic development, ensuring a robust and sustainable future for dance in Liverpool. This project is a catalyst for positive change, fostering an environment where dance not only survives but thrives, and captivates the hearts of Liverpool's residents and visitors alike, and contributes to Liverpool being the premiere destination for all arts and culture.