Funded by the Young Harrow Foundation, we offer classical Indian dance workshops as an after-school activity to children and young people (CYP) from deprived areas in Harrow, specifically targeting those from BAME backgrounds, aged 5 to 25 years (up to 30 years for those with SEND), who face social, economic and health inequalities.
The project takes place over 20 weeks, from January to July 2024, delivering three sessions each week at Srishti’s Dance Studio at the Harrow Arts Centre and Greenhill Library, aiming to increase physical activity and improve mental well-being.
The programme focusses on various aspects of development, designed to improve cognitive skills, balance, flexibility, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. Hand gestures and facial expression sequences enable participants to express their inner selves and release emotions. The workshop content is thematic and appropriate for different ages and abilities, allowing important topics to be explored through creative movement rather than difficult conversations.
The workshops also incorporate yoga, meditation and mindfulness to promote mental health and overall well-being, helping participants build resilience and equipping them with essential tools to cope with stress and life’s challenges.
As a result of the project, more children and young people have taken up arts-based activities on a longer-term basis, boosting their overall well-being, highlighting the project’s success in fostering lasting engagement with the arts.
Selected Feedback
My favourite thing was showing the animals because it’s like being close to nature.
(Aged 9)
I felt proud that I can do the dance on my own. It has helped me become more confident and open.
(Aged 9)
I enjoyed learning new steps. It made me feel good.
(Aged 20, Specially abled)
The workshops made me feel safe. It has helped me understand that dancing is good.
(Aged 10)
I felt supported and very enthusiastic attending these workshops. It has helped me calm down during big problems by keeping me fit and active. I enjoyed myself and would love to come again.
(Aged 9)
It helped me understand the magic of dancing.
(Aged 7)
The workshops helped me feel better mentally because I learned more about myself and other cultures.
(Aged 10)
I felt happy to dance with other people and felt amazing performing our own story.
(Aged 9)