“The precarity of freelance work, low wages, and unequal distributions of wealth and work raises questions for the sustainability of the Cultural Sector in the longer term. This is particularly relevant for those from lower socio-economic groups who do not have additional financial means to develop and support a career in the sector”.

The State of the Arts Report 2024, published by Campaign for the Arts

Imagine that the future is an impossible task in uncertain times for the arts and cultural sector, caused by political, social, and environmental challenges. This year, we’ve been asking this question over and over again: what does the future of the dance sector look like? 

The answer?

We prefer to find out together, through listening, sharing, and reflecting.

This has always been the motto for Stretch, a community dedicated to everyone working in and around the dance sector, regardless of occupation or career stage. Since 2022, our team at Diagonal Dance has been developing Stretch as a professional development opportunity, a showcase and grassroots conference that welcomes everyone – from graduates to freelancers to directors – to come together to reflect on their journeys and, who knows, plan the way forward.

After a very successful first edition in March 2023, we realised how much the dance sector can benefit from this event. A full-packed schedule of panels, workshops, networking, and performance opportunities in a safe, welcoming environment. And not restricted to gatekeepers in the field. A conference and networking opportunity built by freelancers to discuss what matters in the dance world right now. 

From that inaugural Stretch in diverse South East London, many conversations, connections, and collaborations started to emerge, spotlighting the power of bringing people together. We wanted to do it again, programming a next edition co-curated with the dance workforce.

Through an online survey and an in-person session, we drafted a programme for this year, rooted in the current needs, questions, problems, and hopes of professionals working in the field. Here’s what we found out:

• 95% of dance professionals work or have worked in the past as freelancers
• 90% believe that a conference like Stretch is essential in the dance ecosystem
• 80% struggle to find networking opportunities for professional development

Based on these stats, we’re building a Stretch 2024 deeply focused on networking and community building. A programme filled with movement, panels, mentorship, speed meetings, skill sharing, and a performance party. A Stretch that stands against a broken funding system that has been restricting so many of us from delivering our projects. A DIY (Do It Yourself) one day Stretch. 

Choosing to keep going – against the external challenges – is only possible thanks to our wonderful partners: Chisenhale Dance Space, Dance Art Journal, IRIE! dance theatre, and Movement Connects. 

The full programme is now available on the website and you can get your ticket. We hope to see you in Stretch 2024 on Friday, 22 November at Chisenhale Dance Space (London). 

Let’s Stretch!