Ipswich DanceEast audience ambassadors shaking up the scene

These ambassadors will connect currently under-represented people with accessible, affordable dance shows.

Part of the Future Dance Audiences project, this move aims to transform public perceptions about dance performances.

Gabrielle Shefford, a parent with familial ties to ballroom dancing, will liaise with family audiences.

Gabrielle Shefford will liaise with family audiences (Image: Submitted)

Recently relocating from Greater London to Ipswich, Gabrielle praises the welcoming community spirit.

“We’ve felt it was easy to find a community here”, Gabrielle said, attributing this to her current network of young parents.

Gabrielle, impressed by DanceEast's inclusive initiatives, said: “I think it’s that energy, you just can’t replace it with anything else.

"You feel part of it.”

Looking toward the future, Gabrielle added: "I feel raring to go."

Millie Powell, a recent Dance Performance graduate, will focus on audiences aged 18 to 35.

Millie intends to gather feedback from younger people about their likes and dislikes related to dance performances.

Millie said: “I feel like dance is often seen as for really young people or really old people.

"Quite a lot of performances are only one hour to an hour and a half.

"They (friends) want to make a whole evening of it, so trying to find ways of extending the whole experience is important.”

Brian Powlett, a multifaceted worker and previous dance observer, will connect with Global Majority audiences.

Millie Powell will focus on audiences aged 18-35 (Image: Submitted)

He said: “What I genuinely like with dance, you’re always having to do your own interpretation of things that are going on.

"There’s not a specific narrative and you have to decide for yourself what’s happening.”

Brian plans to exploit his role as a supply teacher to engage future dance fans with his goal being: "It’s about seeing the representation from all walks of life."