Jasmin Vardimon Company is a dance company based at JV H.O.M.E in Ashford, a new creative space, housing research, creation and a multi-disciplinary creative learning programme. We work internationally taking a creative and expressive approach to dance, and bringing world class talent and training opportunities to Kent. Through the access fund, we will provide opportunities within the local community for children, young people and adults who could not otherwise engage, watch, or participate in the arts. This project contributes to providing access to our weekly community classes, holiday intensives, and performances, nurturing aspiration and inspiration in local young people and their families.

What we'll deliver:

• Bursary places for children and young people for dance classes and intensives at JV H.O.M.E.
• Bursary places for JVyoU dancers, Jasmin Vardimon Company’s new youth company.
• Free taster classes at JV H.O.M.E.
• Subsidised tickets for Jasmin Vardimon Company performances to support people living in financial difficulty.
• Evaluation of the project to support future projects and fundraising.

Why it's a great idea:

Our project will make a positive difference by: • Improving quality of life for local children, young people, and their families. • Improving our community offer and reaching new audiences. • Supporting the development of the Ashford Borough. The project will improve mental wellbeing, community cohesion, fitness, health and confidence in local people. We will work collaboratively to design creative dance sessions that will enable participants the opportunity to engage, watch, or participate in the arts.

Steps to get it done:

• Deliver an outreach & marketing campaign reaching local people and build partnerships with local community groups.
• Up to 30 new participants to attend free taster classes at JV H.O.M.E.
• Up to 72 community classes attended by bursary recipients.
• 3 JVyoU participants to receive bursaries to access the youth company training and performances.
• Up to 22 bursary recipients to attend holiday intensives.
• 20 attendees from low-income families to watch performances at JV H.O.M.E via free/reduced price ticket offers.
• Evaluate the project to demonstrate impact and need and to support future funding applications.

Here is what our local community say about us at JV H.O.M.E: “My whole family think the company is easily one of the best things to happen to Ashford in a long time. Thank you for what you have brought to the town.” “The provision of a café adds a close community feel to the evening. The friendliness of those assisting attendees in a variety of ways throughout the evening adds greatly to the success of these events. Thank you!” “This was a fantastic community event, showcasing the young people of Ashford. The use of combined arts was fantastic and reflected the diverse talents of all involved.” “My daughter was really nervous doing this dance workshop for the first time and did not know anyone. By the end of the week she loved it and said she was so glad she did it! Thank you to all of the team.” “Great class with a fantastic leader. Imaginative & accessible with great energy in the room.”