Empowering Queer Voices Through The Power Of Dance

Who are we and what is our project? 

The Marina Studios Foundation are working in partnership with 201 Dance Company. We have a vision of changing lives through the power of Dance and Movement. Our mission emphasises diversity and inclusion, with a strong focus on engaging the queer community and promoting physical activity.

We're proud to support 201 Dance Company, building upon our longstanding work with its founder Andrea and as this project evolves and expands, we're stepping up our involvement, by offering Dance and Movement workshops, studio space, resources, job opportunities and a space for all to thrive and feel the true benefits of physical activity. 

201 Dance Company is rooted in Brighton under the visionary leadership of Andrea Walker.

This company pushes boundaries by creating captivating performances that blend diverse choreographic styles. Walker's journey into dance began at the age of 14 in Rome, Italy, and took him across continents to refine his craft at prestigious institutions.

Recognising the significant impact of this project over the years in Brighton, we're committed to playing a supportive role in its ongoing success. The project, which has already shown significant positive impact in the past, aims to further elevate and empower LGBTQ+ voices, particularly those with experiences of mental health challenges, or who have lack of access to being physically active through the power of Dance and Movement. 

For over a decade, 201 Dance Company has consistently showcased their dedication to queer-focused initiatives. We're thrilled to support them as they strive to leave a lasting impact on communities exemplified by their recent viral dance film, "Pride as Protest," which celebrates the rich diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. You can view the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B3_MAxBwn0

Why are we crowdfunding? 

Collectively we have centred the voices of trans artists, young people and community members, amplifying their narratives and experiences. Through workshops and masterclasses, we've provided platforms for developing queer artists, ensuring their skills are honed and their voices heard but we need YOUR help to expand on this. We are seeking support for various aspects of our ongoing project.

We’re working hard with other partners such as Brighton Pride, Chalk Cliff Trust, Arts Council England and more to secure the full budget, but your contribution will be invaluable to help support with the below: 

🌟A Celebration of Queer Visibility Event: This event will be held at Marina Studios in June and is a celebration of our vibrant community, offering an evening of fabulous queerness for everyone to revel in. The evening will involve dance masterclasses, Drag Bingo and Q&A’s. Designed to celebrate queerness, foster a sense of social inclusion, and encourage engagement in physical activity within a safe and welcoming environment. C. £350

🌟 Artist Opportunities for Pride 2024: We're about creating meaningful opportunities that empower individuals from all walks of life including YOU. These costs will fund freelance dancers, core creative team, videographer, and drag artists for this years viral Pride video. The video will be a dynamic dance routine, requiring multiple rehearsals, which will help unlock the advantages of sport and physical activity for everyone involved. C. £1000 

🌟Developing our Youth Program (Y.E.S Project) for 14+:  This part of the project is aimed at empowering disadvantaged young people through increased engagement in physical activity. We will enhance our youth program with more Dance and Movement classes, workshops, summer camps, youth voice sessions and engaging queer workforce. We are dedicated to helping young people develop leadership and capability whilst nurturing a healthy and loving relationship with physical activity, ensuring it becomes a lifelong habit.C. £500

🌟Marketing and Audience Impact: Funds raised will support our marketing efforts to reach thousands of people across various digital platforms. This initiative aims to unite the movement and encourage individuals, both within our immediate communities and beyond, to get moving and understand the benefits of physical activity. C. £350

🌟Marina Studios Foundation: A portion of the funds will be allocated to sustaining the ongoing project provided by Marina Studios Foundation. This support encompasses dedicated workforce, facilitating the Dance and Movement sessions at the studios, and contributes to the establishment of a lasting legacy. By investing in the sustainability of the studio and its charitable endeavours, we are ensuring that future generations will have access to valuable resources and opportunities to stay physically active. C. £300

Community Impact

• More people enjoying the benefits of Physical Activity.
• More opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals tackling inequalitites. 
• Conducted workshops and masterclass opportunities.
• Previous videos have reached over 1 MILLION views by audiences digitally and over 50,000 at Pride Main stage educating and advocating for inclusion.
• Established lasting connections with various partners and organisations.
• Establishing Marina Studios as a queer safe space for people to flourish. 
• It will empower the younger generation with representation, visibility, education, awareness, resilience and self expression, especially in todays climate.
• Actively supporting and uplifting the trans community.
• Aiming to engage 150+ people in dance performance opportunities.

How you can play your part

Help us reach our target and make this project a reality.

1. Make a pledge. Don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success! Every donation we receive means that as a charity, through Gift Aid, we can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you give. It will not cost you any extra.

2. Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.

3. Offer rewards. Get involved if you are a local business by donating things we can offer to our supporters. We will give you a shout out!

4. Fundraise for us. If you want to run your own fundraiser – maybe a sponsored activity or similar – use the 'contact project' button at the top of our page to let us know. Setting up your own page only takes a few minutes and you won’t need any bank details. Just a fun idea!

5. Dance in our annual pride video. Celebrating Girls Aloud as the headliners this year! Email [email protected] to get involved. 

By contributing to our crowdfunding campaign, you'll be supporting an initiative that not only celebrates diversity and our inclusion mission, but actively works to uplift marginalised voices within the queer community. 

Together, we can create lasting change.

Thank you, 

Marina Studios and 201 Dance Company