Mentoring

a woman sitting on top of a stair case, Text Beyond Dance - Mentoring for dance

'My mentor was a perfect match for me and helped me get my new job at Tonic! Different perspectives and putting oneself “out there” can be scary, but it is incredibly rewarding! It was really life changing and helped me grow so much!'

Mariana Rodrigues, Former Ballet Dancer & Beyond Dance Mentee

about beyond dance mentoring

Applications are now open for dancers to take part in Beyond Dance 2026 (programme commencing January 2026).

Beyond Dance Mentoring matches dancers with extraordinary people, from both inside the creative industries and beyond. Connecting dancers with mentors with unique skills and experience; the programme helps challenge and support both personal and professional growth.  

WHO IS MENTORING SUITABLE FOR?

Dancers who are ready and motivated to take the next step, and to gain a fresh perspective on topics such as:

  • Attaining your career goals
  • Career transitions and evolution
  • Developing your leadership potential
  • Starting your own business
  • Attaining a healthy work-life balance
  • Building your self-belief and confidence

This programme focusses on your individual professional and personal development.  You will have time to explore your future career steps, discover your unique strengths, values and skills, and how these can help you take charge of your career.

AM I ELIGIBLE?

The programme is open to dancers from all genres with at least five years’ professional performing experience in the UK.

The programme is open to dancers who are currently performing and those who have recently retired from their performance career. Dancers should be currently based in the UK.

A programme for all dancers

As an organisation committed to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, DCD actively encourages applications from dancers at all stages of their career, of all backgrounds, cultures and lived experiences, from any geographical location.

Illness or injury

Should you be unable to meet the application criteria set out above because you were forced to retire due to physical or mental illness or injury, you may still be eligible. Please contact us on dancers@thedcd.org.uk.

Apply

To apply to take part in Beyond Dance 2026 please click here.

Deadline for applications: Monday 24 November, 9am.

Time Commitment

It is expected that over the course of 12 months (starting January 2026) mentees will:

  • attend 2 x face to face events (likely both London-based)
  • have regular contact with their mentors (e.g. once a month, usually online, except where geography permits otherwise)
  • appropriately action any self-reflection, research or other tasks as agreed with their mentor
  • meet online with DCD staff approximately six times during the year
  • make good use of the provided resources and other tools provided
  • participate fully in evaluation tasks (usually at the mid-way and end-point of the programme)

Meet some of the 2024-25 Beyond Dance Mentees, read about their experience to date and their reasons for joining the programme...

 

Precious is a black woman with tied up hair. She is in a ballet studio, leaning on a training barre.

Click here to read bio.

Precious Adams

Dancer with English National Ballet

Precious Adams is a world-class black ballerina from Canton, Michigan, and a First Soloist with the English National Ballet. She trained at the Bolshoi Academy, Princess Grace Academy and The National Ballet School in Toronto. An award-winning artist, her accolades include: double prize winner at the 2014 Prix de Lausanne and the 2018 National Dance Awards’ Best Emerging Artist. She has performed lead roles in The Rite of Spring, Cinderella, The Nutcracker and Giselle, as well as leading roles in the works of William Forsyth and David Dawson. Passionate about diversity in ballet, she is also studying Computer Science at Goldsmiths, University of London.

“I applied for Beyond Dance because the path to such a highly specialised job like becoming a ballerina can be a real bubble, so gaining more insight into the real world was what I was seeking at this juncture in my development. I also found remote learning to be somewhat isolating, so I think that also sparked my interest in getting some input from a mentor. 

Getting support from someone from outside my normal stratosphere has already helped me to gain confidence and begin to reimagine how all my years of experience can be reapplied in other fields. Getting the perspective and input of a mentor has helped me immensely in gaining a more realistic look at how the path towards my life after dance might look.”

Close

A headshot of Lindon Barr, a white man with short dark hair and short beard.

Click here to read bio.

Lindon Barr

Choreographer, Dance Artist & Lecturer

Lindon Barr is a British Choreographer, Dance Artist and Lecturer based in London, working across the UK and internationally. He started his journey at Bodywork Company, Cambridge, studying a range of dance disciplines from Ballet to Hip Hop; before travelling to studios in Los Angeles and New York to further his training and knowledge. Lindon works closely with Olivier Award Winning companies Boy Blue and ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. He is also the Artistic Director of his own Award-Winning Hip Hop Dance Company: Elementz Entertainment.

“I applied for the mentoring programme to get a different perspective, from someone outside of my industry and network, on how to move forward with the business side of my career. I love working in the arts and hope to continue in this sector for the next chapter of my life, but in a slightly different role that I am still yet to figure out. I hope that the programme and connecting with a mentor help me to start taking the necessary steps forward.”

Close

Lucia is a white woman with long dark hair. She is wearing a colourful shirt and smiling towards the camera.

Click here to read bio.

Lucia Chocarro

Dance & Physical Theatre Artist

Lucia is a contemporary dance & physical theatre artist with vast experience as a performer, facilitator and devising collaborator. Moving to London from the north of Spain to pursue her career, she trained at London Contemporary Dance School. She has worked in both film and live theatre with choreographers and productions including Akram Khan Company, Punchdrunk, Gecko Theatre, Chemical Brothers, Ólafur Arnalds, Wonder Woman, Justice League and Paddington in Peru. In 2013, alongside three other women, Lucia co-founded Feet off the Ground, an all-female self-producing collective which creates outdoor work and delivers educational and participation projects. Most recently, Lucia has been supporting directors and choreographers in their creative processes with assisting, rehearsal directing and dramaturgy.

After years in the professional dance industry, I felt a clear need to find support and accountability in updating my skillset and making decisions for redirecting my career path. So far, I have stepped into action and have started a journey towards clarity, giving myself the best chance to keep thriving. It’s a unique and powerful opportunity to meet someone that will support from a wealth of knowledge and expertise, and I’m very grateful to have this opportunity at this crucial point in my life.”

Close

A headshot of Pranita, a woman of Asian descent with long, straight dark hair. She is smiling towards the camera.

Click here to read bio.

Pranita Choudhry

Bharatanatyam Dance Artist & Choreographer

Pranita Choudhry is a London-based Bharatanatyam dance artist and choreographer. She is a performer and dance advocate, especially for South Asian dance and art forms in the UK, and has widely performed both solo and as part of ensembles. She has also actively explored dance through other mediums, including as a dance critic for leading publications and through her dance photography work. Her practice and work is at the cusp of movement and activism and uses the vocabulary of Indian classical dance to raise, delve deeper into, explore and communicate complex societal issues.

“Through taking part in the mentorship programme I hope to have the opportunity to share my ideas, to be pushed and challenged, to imagine new pathways and gain new perspectives, and to also help me get past some of my mental blocks and barriers. I also hope to get guidance around the skills and practical experience I need to gain to be able to get there, and to achieve my goals.”

Close

Precious Adams is a world-class black ballerina from Canton, Michigan, and a First Soloist with the English National Ballet. She trained at the Bolshoi Academy, Princess Grace Academy and The National Ballet School in Toronto. An award-winning artist, her accolades include: double prize winner at the 2014 Prix de Lausanne and the 2018 National Dance Awards’ Best Emerging Artist. She has performed lead roles in The Rite of Spring, Cinderella, The Nutcracker and Giselle, as well as leading roles in the works of William Forsyth and David Dawson. Passionate about diversity in ballet, she is also studying Computer Science at Goldsmiths, University of London.

“I applied for Beyond Dance because the path to such a highly specialised job like becoming a ballerina can be a real bubble, so gaining more insight into the real world was what I was seeking at this juncture in my development. I also found remote learning to be somewhat isolating, so I think that also sparked my interest in getting some input from a mentor. 

Getting support from someone from outside my normal stratosphere has already helped me to gain confidence and begin to reimagine how all my years of experience can be reapplied in other fields. Getting the perspective and input of a mentor has helped me immensely in gaining a more realistic look at how the path towards my life after dance might look.”

Close

Lindon Barr is a British Choreographer, Dance Artist and Lecturer based in London, working across the UK and internationally. He started his journey at Bodywork Company, Cambridge, studying a range of dance disciplines from Ballet to Hip Hop; before travelling to studios in Los Angeles and New York to further his training and knowledge. Lindon works closely with Olivier Award Winning companies Boy Blue and ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company. He is also the Artistic Director of his own Award-Winning Hip Hop Dance Company: Elementz Entertainment.

“I applied for the mentoring programme to get a different perspective, from someone outside of my industry and network, on how to move forward with the business side of my career. I love working in the arts and hope to continue in this sector for the next chapter of my life, but in a slightly different role that I am still yet to figure out. I hope that the programme and connecting with a mentor help me to start taking the necessary steps forward.”

Close

Lucia is a contemporary dance & physical theatre artist with vast experience as a performer, facilitator and devising collaborator. Moving to London from the north of Spain to pursue her career, she trained at London Contemporary Dance School. She has worked in both film and live theatre with choreographers and productions including Akram Khan Company, Punchdrunk, Gecko Theatre, Chemical Brothers, Ólafur Arnalds, Wonder Woman, Justice League and Paddington in Peru. In 2013, alongside three other women, Lucia co-founded Feet off the Ground, an all-female self-producing collective which creates outdoor work and delivers educational and participation projects. Most recently, Lucia has been supporting directors and choreographers in their creative processes with assisting, rehearsal directing and dramaturgy.

After years in the professional dance industry, I felt a clear need to find support and accountability in updating my skillset and making decisions for redirecting my career path. So far, I have stepped into action and have started a journey towards clarity, giving myself the best chance to keep thriving. It’s a unique and powerful opportunity to meet someone that will support from a wealth of knowledge and expertise, and I’m very grateful to have this opportunity at this crucial point in my life.”

Close

Pranita Choudhry is a London-based Bharatanatyam dance artist and choreographer. She is a performer and dance advocate, especially for South Asian dance and art forms in the UK, and has widely performed both solo and as part of ensembles. She has also actively explored dance through other mediums, including as a dance critic for leading publications and through her dance photography work. Her practice and work is at the cusp of movement and activism and uses the vocabulary of Indian classical dance to raise, delve deeper into, explore and communicate complex societal issues.

“Through taking part in the mentorship programme I hope to have the opportunity to share my ideas, to be pushed and challenged, to imagine new pathways and gain new perspectives, and to also help me get past some of my mental blocks and barriers. I also hope to get guidance around the skills and practical experience I need to gain to be able to get there, and to achieve my goals.”

Close

Charlotte is a white woman with short blonde hair. She is wearing glasses and a blue shirt and is smiling.

Click here to read bio.

Charlotte Darbyshire

Independent Dance Artist, Educator, Facilitator & Movement Therapist

Charlotte Darbyshire is an independent dance artist, educator, facilitator and movement therapist. She is the former artistic co-director of Candoco Dance Company (2016-2023), having been a founder member in 1991 and contributed to the company’s ethos, development and success.

She has 35 years’ experience of working with disabled and non-disabled dancers in a range of professional, community and healthcare settings all over the world. She considers herself a non-disabled ally and is committed to supporting the development of disabled artists and leaders. Charlotte has a daily movement practice and continues to make collaborative dance work for live spaces and screen. She has made several award-winning dance films.

“Last year was a time of transition for me. I stepped down from my role at Candoco to make space for disabled artistic leadership, and shortly afterwards relocated from London to Norwich. These significant changes provided me with a chance to re-imagine my creative and professional path; but prompted questions for me about what I wanted, and felt I could contribute. I have always mentored others but now longed for the support and fresh perspectives of someone with completely different lived and professional experience from me. Beyond Dance thankfully provided me with that opportunity.” 

Close

Jackson is a white main with short brown hair. He is wearing a blue denim shirt.

Click here to read bio.

Jackson Dwyer

Dancer with Northern Ballet

Jackson Dwyer is a Canadian professional ballet dancer currently engaged as a First Soloist with Northern Ballet. He trained at Canada’s National Ballet School and The John Cranko School and previously danced with The National Ballet of Canada, Ballet Arizona and Hong Kong Ballet. His repertoire includes many leading and soloist roles in the classical canon, and he has worked with some of today’s most in-demand choreographers.

“Now that I’m firmly in the latter half of my ballet career, I applied to Beyond Dance as I begin working on my career transition. Over the course of the mentorship I hope, through discussion and reflection, to explore my thinking and create a defined action plan before I step off the stage.”

Close

A headshot of Shannelle, a black woman with long hair in braids, tied off her face. She is wearing a dark denim shirt and silver hoop earrings.

Click here to read bio.

Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus

Dance Artist, Choreographer & Teacher

Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus is a London-based creative working within the dance community and in the dance industry – with 20+ years’ experience and a unique 360 perspective, working across performance, choreography, teaching and talent management. Her movement style is a blend of her training in street styles and contemporary, with leanings towards gesture and pedestrian movement.

“I applied for Beyond Dance as part of calling in some infrastructure to support me as I navigate the different roles I hold in my creative career. I am often in a place of being mentor, teacher, facilitator and feel it timely to be held in the ways I hold so many.”

Close

A headshot of Katie, a white woman with brown eyes and long straight brown hair sat over her shoulder. She is wearing a strappy vest and smiling towards the camera.

Click here to read bio.

Katie Lusby

Dance Artist, Teacher & Facilitator

After training at London Studio Centre and London Contemporary Dance School, Katie Lusby began her career as a freelance contemporary dancer in 2008. She worked with companies including Richard Alston Dance Company and New Adventures, and choreographers including Fin Walker, James Cousins and Akram Khan (London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony). This performance work eventually led Katie towards physical theatre companies such as Punchdrunk International and Gecko Theatre, whom she has collaborated with for the last ten years. Alongside performing Katie has also worked extensively as a teacher and facilitator in various educational, professional and community settings.

“As I transition away from a performance-centred career, I am eager to expand my impact as both an artist and a leader in my local community in Cornwall. I firmly believe in the transformative power of dance and theatre to engage, inspire, and create meaningful change; as well as the enormous contribution they have to health and wellbeing. Through this mentorship programme I hope to gain valuable insights into leadership, entrepreneurship and funding strategies that will help me build a long-lasting, self-sustaining career in the arts, education and wellbeing sectors.”

Close

Charlotte Darbyshire is an independent dance artist, educator, facilitator and movement therapist. She is the former artistic co-director of Candoco Dance Company (2016-2023), having been a founder member in 1991 and contributed to the company’s ethos, development and success.

She has 35 years’ experience of working with disabled and non-disabled dancers in a range of professional, community and healthcare settings all over the world. She considers herself a non-disabled ally and is committed to supporting the development of disabled artists and leaders. Charlotte has a daily movement practice and continues to make collaborative dance work for live spaces and screen. She has made several award-winning dance films.

“Last year was a time of transition for me. I stepped down from my role at Candoco to make space for disabled artistic leadership, and shortly afterwards relocated from London to Norwich. These significant changes provided me with a chance to re-imagine my creative and professional path; but prompted questions for me about what I wanted, and felt I could contribute. I have always mentored others but now longed for the support and fresh perspectives of someone with completely different lived and professional experience from me. Beyond Dance thankfully provided me with that opportunity.” 

Close

Jackson Dwyer is a Canadian professional ballet dancer currently engaged as a First Soloist with Northern Ballet. He trained at Canada’s National Ballet School and The John Cranko School and previously danced with The National Ballet of Canada, Ballet Arizona and Hong Kong Ballet. His repertoire includes many leading and soloist roles in the classical canon, and he has worked with some of today’s most in-demand choreographers.

“Now that I’m firmly in the latter half of my ballet career, I applied to Beyond Dance as I begin working on my career transition. Over the course of the mentorship I hope, through discussion and reflection, to explore my thinking and create a defined action plan before I step off the stage.”

Close

Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus is a London-based creative working within the dance community and in the dance industry – with 20+ years’ experience and a unique 360 perspective, working across performance, choreography, teaching and talent management. Her movement style is a blend of her training in street styles and contemporary, with leanings towards gesture and pedestrian movement.

“I applied for Beyond Dance as part of calling in some infrastructure to support me as I navigate the different roles I hold in my creative career. I am often in a place of being mentor, teacher, facilitator and feel it timely to be held in the ways I hold so many.”

Close

After training at London Studio Centre and London Contemporary Dance School, Katie Lusby began her career as a freelance contemporary dancer in 2008. She worked with companies including Richard Alston Dance Company and New Adventures, and choreographers including Fin Walker, James Cousins and Akram Khan (London 2012 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony). This performance work eventually led Katie towards physical theatre companies such as Punchdrunk International and Gecko Theatre, whom she has collaborated with for the last ten years. Alongside performing Katie has also worked extensively as a teacher and facilitator in various educational, professional and community settings.

“As I transition away from a performance-centred career, I am eager to expand my impact as both an artist and a leader in my local community in Cornwall. I firmly believe in the transformative power of dance and theatre to engage, inspire, and create meaningful change; as well as the enormous contribution they have to health and wellbeing. Through this mentorship programme I hope to gain valuable insights into leadership, entrepreneurship and funding strategies that will help me build a long-lasting, self-sustaining career in the arts, education and wellbeing sectors.”

Close

Daniella is a black woman with curly hair.

Click here to read bio.

Daniella May

Dancer, Photographer, Videographer & Movement Director

Daniella May is a professional dancer who trained at Northern School of Contemporary Dance. Her work has taken her across the world, performing in a variety of dance styles, developing a versatile approach to movement. Through these experiences, Daniella has been inspired by different cultures, people, landscapes and moments, leading her to start documenting movement and people in new ways and formats. After years of dancing on stage and connecting with audiences in a physical way, Daniella has chosen to focus on a new medium—photography, videography, and movement direction within the visual arts sector.

I wanted to join the programme to connect me with a mentor and build a partnership where we could share stories and discuss how they navigated their own journey. I also want to work with someone who can help me grow, step out of my comfort zone, and open my mind to new possibilities. I aim to use the skills I’ve developed in both dance, visual arts and from this scheme to explore other areas that push my creativity and connect with audiences on another level; and to start my own business.”

Close

A black and white photo of Wayne, a white man with dark hair. He is smiling at the camera and wearing a dark jumper, leaning against a wall with his arms crossed in front of him.

Click here to read bio.

Wayne Parsons

Arts Producer

Wayne Parsons is currently Senior Producer at Ideas Test. He has over 20 years’ experience in the arts, and is driven by a passion for socially engaged practice and the transformative power of the arts. Wayne’s career began in contemporary dance, where he worked full-time for 13 years, performing internationally with leading companies including Richard Alston Dance Company and Sydney Dance Company. As the Founder of VOXED, he led six UK tours and developed projects like #GOOGLEDANCE, a digital series celebrating local creativity. Wayne is now transitioning, to broaden his impact across the cultural and creative sectors, championing inclusive and meaningful experiences.

“I applied to Beyond Dance because it offers a fantastic opportunity to step outside the dance industry at a pivotal moment in my career. I’m in the process of transitioning away from working solely in dance, and exploring how my skills and experiences can have broader applications across the cultural and creative sectors. This programme provides the space to reflect on my practice, hear myself in a new context, and gain fresh insights that can guide this transition. It’s also a chance to develop meaningful contacts across different industries, enriching my understanding of how diverse approaches and perspectives can inform and enhance my work.”

Close

Juan has dark hair and beard. He is wearing a grey top and has an earring in his left ear.

Click here to read bio.

Juan Sanchez-Plaza

Dancer, Choreographer & Yoga Teacher

Juan Sanchez Plaza is a Spanish-born, London-based dancer and choreographer with over a decade of professional experience. He has collaborated with renowned dance and theatre companies in the UK and internationally, including Agudo Dance Company, Richard Chappell Dance, Tom Dale, Flute Theatre, Persona Collective and Salzburg Festspiele Haus.

In 2020, Juan co-founded Nomad Dance Collective, where he choreographs and performs internationally, creating innovative dance works. He is also the founder of: The 5 Elements Movement Practice, a somatic-based movement methodology designed to enhance well-being and self-expression. Additionally, Juan is a certified yoga teacher accredited by the International Yoga Alliance, integrating his passion for yoga with his movement practice.

“I applied to Beyond Dance at a pivotal moment of reflection in my career. I found myself questioning my role as a dancer and exploring how I could achieve new professional goals within the arts and dance, but through a path that extends beyond just performing. I hope this programme will provide me with fresh perspectives and clarity, helping me uncover a new direction that may already be right in front of me, waiting to be discovered.”

Close

Lizzie is a white woman with long ginger hair tied up in a ponytail. She is wearing a red jumper and smiling towards the camera.

Click here to read bio.

Lizzie Treece

Dancer, Teacher & Fitness Instructor

Lizzie Treece trained at London Studio Centre, with a Leverhulme Scholarship, and since graduating has gone on to have a portfolio career dancing for TV, Theatre, and Live events. Credits include: Bridgerton (Netflix), Tom’s Midnight Garden (UK Tour), resident dancer for The Glenn Miller Orchestra UK and Five Children and It (Tabard Theatre). Alongside performing, Lizzie is also a dance fitness instructor and adult dance teacher, and loves sharing her passion for dance through her classes.

“I applied for Beyond Dance to make time to reflect on my career, think about what direction I want to go in next and gain a different perspective on what might be possible. As a freelancer, work/life balance can be tough and having a mentor to share and discuss these challenges with is invaluable! I hope by the end of the programme to have identified what might be holding me back and have a clearer vision of where I want to take my career next.”

Close

Daniella May is a professional dancer who trained at Northern School of Contemporary Dance. Her work has taken her across the world, performing in a variety of dance styles, developing a versatile approach to movement. Through these experiences, Daniella has been inspired by different cultures, people, landscapes and moments, leading her to start documenting movement and people in new ways and formats. After years of dancing on stage and connecting with audiences in a physical way, Daniella has chosen to focus on a new medium—photography, videography, and movement direction within the visual arts sector.

I wanted to join the programme to connect me with a mentor and build a partnership where we could share stories and discuss how they navigated their own journey. I also want to work with someone who can help me grow, step out of my comfort zone, and open my mind to new possibilities. I aim to use the skills I’ve developed in both dance, visual arts and from this scheme to explore other areas that push my creativity and connect with audiences on another level; and to start my own business.”

Close

Wayne Parsons is currently Senior Producer at Ideas Test. He has over 20 years’ experience in the arts, and is driven by a passion for socially engaged practice and the transformative power of the arts. Wayne’s career began in contemporary dance, where he worked full-time for 13 years, performing internationally with leading companies including Richard Alston Dance Company and Sydney Dance Company. As the Founder of VOXED, he led six UK tours and developed projects like #GOOGLEDANCE, a digital series celebrating local creativity. Wayne is now transitioning, to broaden his impact across the cultural and creative sectors, championing inclusive and meaningful experiences.

“I applied to Beyond Dance because it offers a fantastic opportunity to step outside the dance industry at a pivotal moment in my career. I’m in the process of transitioning away from working solely in dance, and exploring how my skills and experiences can have broader applications across the cultural and creative sectors. This programme provides the space to reflect on my practice, hear myself in a new context, and gain fresh insights that can guide this transition. It’s also a chance to develop meaningful contacts across different industries, enriching my understanding of how diverse approaches and perspectives can inform and enhance my work.”

Close

Juan Sanchez Plaza is a Spanish-born, London-based dancer and choreographer with over a decade of professional experience. He has collaborated with renowned dance and theatre companies in the UK and internationally, including Agudo Dance Company, Richard Chappell Dance, Tom Dale, Flute Theatre, Persona Collective and Salzburg Festspiele Haus.

In 2020, Juan co-founded Nomad Dance Collective, where he choreographs and performs internationally, creating innovative dance works. He is also the founder of: The 5 Elements Movement Practice, a somatic-based movement methodology designed to enhance well-being and self-expression. Additionally, Juan is a certified yoga teacher accredited by the International Yoga Alliance, integrating his passion for yoga with his movement practice.

“I applied to Beyond Dance at a pivotal moment of reflection in my career. I found myself questioning my role as a dancer and exploring how I could achieve new professional goals within the arts and dance, but through a path that extends beyond just performing. I hope this programme will provide me with fresh perspectives and clarity, helping me uncover a new direction that may already be right in front of me, waiting to be discovered.”

Close

Lizzie Treece trained at London Studio Centre, with a Leverhulme Scholarship, and since graduating has gone on to have a portfolio career dancing for TV, Theatre, and Live events. Credits include: Bridgerton (Netflix), Tom’s Midnight Garden (UK Tour), resident dancer for The Glenn Miller Orchestra UK and Five Children and It (Tabard Theatre). Alongside performing, Lizzie is also a dance fitness instructor and adult dance teacher, and loves sharing her passion for dance through her classes.

“I applied for Beyond Dance to make time to reflect on my career, think about what direction I want to go in next and gain a different perspective on what might be possible. As a freelancer, work/life balance can be tough and having a mentor to share and discuss these challenges with is invaluable! I hope by the end of the programme to have identified what might be holding me back and have a clearer vision of where I want to take my career next.”

Close

FEEDBACK FROM PREVIOUS Beyond Dance MENTEES

‘ I cannot express just how life changing it has been.’

‘It has been challenging and has encouraged a leap out of my comfort zones. Meetings with my mentor were always inspiring and energising.’

‘I feel incredibly fortunate to have participated in the Beyond Dance Mentorship Programme and know I’m in a much stronger position now than I was at the outset. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to my fellow dancers.’

‘…when two people connect and are open to learn from one another. I want to cultivate this feeling for future collaborations. Conversation, exchange and honesty are crucial in any relationship. This has made me feel accompanied on many levels.’

‘Mentoring has given me the confidence to talk about areas of my life both personal and professional which I was ignoring. Which was getting in the way of my enjoyment and progress.’

‘[My mentor] made me realise my transferable skills and how they’re relevant.’

‘It was an incredible experience that went way beyond my expectations.’

“This programme is brilliant! It is such a privilege to have regular mentoring sessions. It is also really important that the mentors of the programme are selected by DCD. My mentor is highly experienced and has supported me to find a focus in a period of chaos. Through insightful discussions, she helped me recognise the extensive experience I have accumulated over the years, reframing it as a valuable “portfolio career.” This shift empowered me to embrace all my skills and experiences.

Furthermore, my mentor coached me on how to confidently communicate my value proposition. With her guidance, I began attending networking events and professional meetings, feeling self-assured and respected.  I am incredibly grateful for her guidance and support.”

Evangelia Kolyra
Beyond Dance mentee 2023-24

A photo showing Evangelia Kolyra's torso and head shows her to be a white woman in her 30s with long, wavy dark hair. She is smiling towards the camera and wearing a loose fitting, pastel and flowery patterned t-shirt.

Photography: Eulanda Shead

Justyna Janiszewska
Beyond Dance mentee 2023-24

A headshot of Justyna Janiszewska, a woman in her 30s with long, wavy brown hair.

 

“The DCD Mentoring Beyond Dance programme was an invaluable lifeline during a challenging time. Feeling lost and uncertain after my injury, I found unwavering support and guidance. My mentor’s belief in my potential was instrumental in helping me rediscover my passions and see things from a new perspective. 

Thanks to this support, I developed a personal toolkit of skills and experiences, transforming perceived weaknesses into strengths. It was a journey of self-discovery and resilience, reigniting my belief in my potential. I wholeheartedly recommend this programme to anyone seeking personal and professional growth.”

Previous mentors (beyond the creative sector) include:

  • Chief Operating Officer for a division of the Investment Bank at Credit Suisse
  • Director of Marketing, Sainsburys
  • Director of Marketing, Nationwide (The Mortgage Works)
  • Director of Customer, Commercial & Procurement, Southern Water
  • CEO, Cromwell Hospital
  • Global Head of Talent, Ocado Group
  • Head of Delivery, Capita
  • Vice President, Meta
  • Co-Owner & Creative Director, Ferndale Hotels
  • Head of Internal Communications, Ofcom
  • Global Head of Ready-to-Drink, Costa Coffee
  • Assistant Head of Information Services, The British Army
  • Chief Finance Officer, Leeds Building Society

Get in touch

For any questions, support needs or to request an informal conversation with a member of the DCD Relationship Management team about the Beyond Dance Mentoring for Dancers programme, please contact dancers@thedcd.org.uk.

We also invite organisations who would like to be involved in mentoring and supporting this programme to please contact dancers@thedcd.org.uk to register your interest.

Side profile of Nandita shot in a studio setting, looking up, elevated in the air. They are wearing a long red dress with feet in full pointe and arms in third position. Nandita has shoulder length curly hair and medium toned skin. The studio background is a pale pink gradient. The message ‘Support a future leader’ is energetically written in bold across Nandita.

Click here to apply to take part in Beyond Dance 2026 (programme commencing January 2026).

Deadline for applications: Monday 24 November, 9am.

Join our mailing list or follow our socials to keep-up-to-date with our news.

Click here to check out our other programmes and events coming up.

Banner image: Nandita Shankardass Dancer, Choreographer,
Teacher, Facilitator, 
Royal Ballet School Alumni, DCD EDI Working Group member. Photography: Simon Richardson.
Get in touch image: Sherisse Bisram, Dancer, Choreographer. Photography: Laura Belcher.

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