Future Shift was an advanced training programme of monthly sessions for disabled dancers in the Midlands.
This programme supported dancers aged 14 and over who identified as D/deaf, disabled, neurodivergent or had a long-term health condition to develop their artistic practice in an accessible and inclusive environment.
Through personalised training and creative development, participants explored contemporary dance technique, choreography, improvisation, physical conditioning and leadership skills, with support tailored to their individual ambitions and access needs.
Alongside regular training, dancers had opportunities to take part in performance projects with leading artists and organisations, creating and presenting new work across the Midlands. These collaborations celebrated the talent of the group while providing valuable professional experience and opportunities to perform on regional platforms.
Performance highlights included:
- Birmingham Festival 2023 – Future Shift collaborated with dancers from FABRIC’s Centre for Advanced Training, working with Nadenh and Emily from Stopgap Dance Company to create The Twelve.
- U.Dance West Midlands 2024 – Performed The Twelve as part of the regional platform at Patrick Studio, Birmingham Hippodrome.
- Shadowed Light 2024 – Worked with Stopgap Dance Company choreographer Chris Pavia to create a new piece inspired by caves, whirlpools and waves.
- Birmingham Weekender 2024 – Collaborated with Linden Dance Company on Uplift, performed at the Bullring as part of Birmingham Hippodrome’s annual festival.
- Applause Youth Dance Festival – Created The Big Rift with choreographer John-William Watson, performing the work as part of the regional U.Dance festival.
Hear from some of our dancers about why they love attending future shift
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Joanna
I’m Joanna / Jo. I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old in many different dance styles such as Ballet, Tap, Street Dance and many more. My favourite dance style is Contemporary. My favourite thing about dance is performing, feeling part of a team and expressing myself through dance. Future Shift is a great place to just be yourself, have fun, learn and enjoy dance without judgement.
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Katie
Hi, I’m Katie and I have been dancing and performing since the age of 3 years old. I love dancing because it makes me feel happy and energised. Future Shift has supported and encouraged me to continue dancing and to develop my skills and it has also given me a platform to show what I can do.
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Maiah
Hey I’m Maiah! I am a dancer with Future Shift, a performing arts student and I also currently receive dance training at Fabric’s Centre for Advanced Training Programme. Future Shift has enabled me to express myself and evolve into the person I am today. Future shift has helped me break down barriers not only physically but also mentally as a dancer that is constantly pushing against society’s preconceptions of what a dancer/performer looks like
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Angel
I’m Angel and I am a soon to be performing arts graduate. My favourite dance styles are Hip Hop, Commercial and Contemporary. I love future shift because it’s on such a smaller scale, you really get to see everyone’s talents. I love performing. I feel like I am in a completely different world.
