Our Summer of Youth Activity

1 October 2025

Summer 2025 saw local young people taking part in some fantastic dance activity at the Talent House and beyond!

This summer, East London Dance and our brilliant partners delivered three powerful programmes that gave young people the chance to explore dance and express themselves. From professional stage performance experiences, to hands-on workshops and physical training, each activity was designed to build confidence, creativity, and connection — and the results were truly inspiring.

End of term showcase at The Source Stratford

In July our summer term youth programme participants took to the stage at The Source Stratford, performing to a sold-out audience of family and friends. This showcase gave them the rare opportunity to dance on a professional stage — and they absolutely rose to the occasion. Their confidence, stage presence, and performance skills were on full display, leaving the audience bursting with pride. It was a fantastic celebration of all the effort they had put in across the summer term at the Talent House. 

Our Youth Programme is supported by The Prudence Trust

EAST Summer School 2025: Dance Meets Music

In partnership with UD Music and as part of London Legacy Development Corporation’s EAST Summer School, we brought together young dancers and music makers aged 14-17 for a week of creative collaboration. Throughout an inspiring week, participants explored movement, rhythm, and musical storytelling. The energy was electric, the creativity boundless — and the final showcase was a testament to the magic that happens when young artists come together to create.

East Summer School was supported by East End Community Foundation, London Legacy Development Corporation and The Prudence Trust

On The Move Summer School: Dance and Wellbeing

Our On The Move Summer Programme for young people aged 8-11 offered a dynamic mix of activities designed to empower and inspire:

• Hip Hop & Street Dance with top choreographers – Cherilyn Albert, Dominic Hamilton, Jordan Franklin & Kofi Mingo
• DJ Workshops with Glade Marie to get behind the decks and explore sound
• Boxing at Fight For Peace to build strength and resilience
• Arts & Crafts for self-expression and creativity
• Mindfulness Sessions to boost emotional wellbeing and confidence

This five-day journey gave young people a safe, inclusive space to try new things, connect with new friends, and discover their inner strength.

On the Move Summer School was supported by East End Community Foundation and The Prudence Trust

The Impact: Growth You Can Feel

Across all three projects, the transformation was clear. Young people stepped into unfamiliar spaces and found their voice, their rhythm, and their power. They built friendships, discovered new talents, and left with a renewed sense of self-belief.

We’re incredibly proud of every participant and deeply grateful to our partners, funders, facilitators, and families who made this journey possible. The vibes were real, and we hope the impact will last far beyond the summer.

East London dance is supported by Arts Council England