1983 – Dance East established

Dance East has become not only a centre for dance in the east of England, but an innovative part of the British dance landscape in its efforts to develop and support artists and artistic leaders. The Ipswich-based organisation, now based at the Jerwood DanceHouse, began as Suffolk Dance and was founded and directed by Dr Scilla Dyke until 1993. Dyke set out to create a ‘dance ecology’ that would impact dance in the UK, with a legacy that extended beyond one person. Dyke devised innovative practice that centred on dialogue, creative practice, and output to fulfill her self-given remit to make dance happen. Establishing the inaugural Artistic Directors Retreat has left a lasting imprint on British dance in how this venture engendered a sense of respect and equitable exchange between multiple strands within the sector.

In October 2009, DanceEast moved to purpose-built premises that enabled the organisation to amplify the scope and reach of its mission; they can offer over 50 dance classes and courses in modern studios each week. The flexible spaces at the Jerwood DanceHouse incorporate a gallery, alternative therapy rooms and spaces the general public can hire. DanceEast embodies a mood change in recent years that identifies the holistic benefits of dance outside of it being something you consume in a theatre. DanceEast is part of the European DanceHouse Network.