Established in 1986, Ballet Cymru has grown from strength to strength. One of the key turning points for the company was receiving an Arts Council of Wales grant to convert a disused industrial building in Rogerstone, on the edge of Newport, into a dance studio. The building is located on an industrial estate through which Artistic Director Darius' father used to walk through each weekday morning, on his way to the steel works where he worked.
Following receipt of this grant derived from the National Lottery, Ballet Cymru has been able to substantially expand its outreach work with the local community. In the short video below, Darius, and the deputy Artistic Director Amy Doughty, talk about the work they do with local schools, as well as the pre-professionals programme they've developed for young dancers. This programme brings young dancers from all parts of the globe to Newport - which also benefits the local community.
