Olive Kane Dance is committed to building confidence and community through dance, making the arts accessible and exciting for children across East London.
This summer, with support from Waltham Forest Community Ward Funding, Olive Kane Dance was able to widen participation and offer heavily subsidised places at their Workshop Week, ensuring children who might otherwise miss out could join in.
Alongside weekly dance classes at Leyton Sports Ground, nursery sessions, and after-school clubs, their holiday workshops provide families with engaging and creative activities during the school holidays. This summer, the Workshop Week took place at St Joseph’s Infant School in Leyton, offering children the chance to be creative, active, and social in a safe and nurturing environment.
Throughout the week, children explored a wide range of dance styles, from ballet to hip hop, alongside drama, singing, arts and crafts, and games. Guest artists introduced Bollywood dance, puppetry, slime-making, magic, and instruments from around the world, sparking curiosity and joy.
Director of the Dance company, Olive Kane said:
“We want children to feel brave, creative and part of something bigger. Thanks to Community Ward Funding, more families could share in that and it was amazing to see the children thriving together.”
Parents shared their children 'loved every minute,' made new friends, and grew in confidence.
One parent shared:
“My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the summer workshop week with Olive Kane Dance. She enjoyed all of the activities and the daily dance, drama and singing workshops. She was heartbroken this morning as she realised she was not attending as the workshop had come to an end. Would highly recommend and we look forward to re-enrol for future sessions.”
Another parent added:
“My daughters had such a wonderful time at the workshop, and we’re so thankful for the funded places. Without them, they wouldn’t have been able to take part. We really appreciate the opportunity.”
The week created an inclusive, affordable, and imaginative experience that brought children together to learn, create, and build happy memories in the heart of Leyton.
Together we’re proud to work with local partners and community groups so residents have opportunities to stay active, support their mental health, and find the right help when they need it. By working together, we are making a difference to the things we know matter to residents.
There are so many ways to get involved locally, if you are looking to give back or need support yourself.