Statement from the Board of Merseyside Dance Initiative (trading name Together) -  Closure

 

It is with great regret that the Board of Trustees of Merseyside Dance Initiative has decided to liquidate and close the charity. The organisation is facing significant and insurmountable financial challenges and, in light of the recent unsuccessful National Portfolio Organisation application to Arts Council England and the worsening general economic landscape, there is a realisation that the situation is likely to become ever more challenging in the future. This has created an existential crisis where current and projected assets of the charity are not able to sustain ongoing costs and consequently Merseyside Dance Initiative as an organisation is no longer viable. 

 

Merseyside Dance Initiative has led the development of dance opportunities across Merseyside and the wider region for almost 30 years and it is with the greatest regret and sadness that the Board has had to take the decision to close the organisation. The contribution Merseyside Dance Initiative has made to the cultural life of the city and wider region is immeasurable. Over the years the organisation has grown local talent, engaged with thousands of dance participants, pioneered new areas in digital and community dance practice which has been nationally heralded. Through its festival, LEAP, it has presented extraordinary dance from across the world to inspire audiences, participants and artists alike.

 

It is most regrettable that there are now no dance organisations on Merseyside that are part of the  Arts Council England National Portfolio of funded organisations . A great city the size and stature of Liverpool deserves better.

 

The Board thank staff, trustees and supporters, old and current. The incredible commitment and passion shown to the organisation, city and dance will continue in the lives of the artists and communities our work has reached. We sincerely hope the dancing communities of Liverpool and Merseyside find new and brilliant ways to ensure dance remains a part of the cultural offer in the city region.

 

We know this will come as a shock to many and the team will be in contact with the people directly affected by the closure imminently. 

 

Please email board@wearetogether.uk if you have any questions.