Always on
This project successfully funded on 30th April 2026, you can still support them with a donation.
The Human Playground
Carlisle, Cumberland, United Kingdom
Aim
Creating a space where curiosity, creativity and human connection can grow in a world that often feels harsh and disconnected.
The Human Playground is a community-led creative project developed by Dance Ahead CIC, founded by dance artist and facilitator Zoë Leigh Gadd.
For many years Zoë’s work has focused on creating welcoming spaces where people can come together to explore movement, creativity and connection. Through workshops, participatory performances and collaborative creative processes, Dance Ahead invites adults of all ages and backgrounds to rediscover curiosity, confidence and creative expression.
Recently, nestled at the foot of Hadrian's wall between the rolling hills of Cumberland and Northumberland, something quietly powerful happened in the village of Gilsland.
Following a short period of rehearsals, supported by the Rural Touring Dance Initiative, Highlights Rural Touring Scheme & Green Croft Arts, local women from different generations came together to perform alongside the extraordinary dancers of Ceyda Tanc Dance. What unfolded in that village hall was more than a performance. It became a space of courage, laughter, trust and shared discovery.
Many of the participants had never met before, yet through movement and creative exploration a deep sense of human connection emerged. The sessions were filled with conversation, curiosity and mutual support. It reminded us how powerful it can be when people are given permission to simply be present, creative and open with one another.
“The space we create together feels both safe and exciting. There’s no pressure to be anything — just present, open and curious.” - Lara, Participant
In a world that can often feel harsh, fast-paced and disconnected, spaces like this feel more important than ever.
The Human Playground grows from this experience.
It offers a gentle, local response to disconnection — creating welcoming environments where people can gather, move, imagine and express themselves freely. These playful spaces encourage curiosity, creativity and connection, helping people rediscover the joy of shared experience.
The Human Playground will bring people together in accessible community spaces such as village halls, community centres and public spaces. Through guided creative sessions and collaborative exploration, participants will be invited to move, create and connect in ways that feel supportive and inclusive.
The funds raised through this campaign will help us begin developing the project by supporting:
• artist and facilitator time
• community workshops and creative sessions
• travel to rural communities
• documentation and sharing of the work
• materials and resources for participants
This campaign will help us begin developing The Human Playground while we await the outcome of our application to the National Lottery Community Fund Awards for All programme.
Every contribution will help us continue building spaces where people feel welcomed, supported and inspired to explore their creativity together.
Because sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simple: create space for people to connect, play and be human together.
“Zoe created a space where we truly feel like we belong. In a world that can feel exhausting, this is somewhere I can be myself and feel completely comfortable.” Laura, Participant
If you’d like to help create more spaces where curiosity, creativity and human connection can grow, please consider supporting the project by making a donation or selecting a reward below.
“The Human Playground is a small but meaningful response to a world that can sometimes feel harsh and disconnected.”
Zoe Leigh Gadd, Founding Director
Dance Ahead CIC
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made