In November 2009 an Open Space meeting called 'How Can We Make Things Better for Dance' in Bristol brought together dancers, teachers, choreographers, audiences, promoters, producers and funders. At this meeting there was a unanimous call for a Creative Producer for Dance based on the successful Theatre Bristol model.

Emma-Jane Benning has joined us as Creative Producer for Dance following 8 years with ACE Dance and Music as an Education Manager where she was actively involved in the strategic and artistic development of the company.

She simultaneously worked in Dance Development and Education Management at Malvern Theatres where she was responsible for the expansion of dance programming and education within the venue to create a new and sustainable audience for dance.   

Representing Malvern Theatres she was a founder member of the Worcestershire Dance Promoters Forum which worked to promote dance and participation across four regional venues. She is currently an Education Consultant for Vamos Theatre.

She has worked extensively to promote participation and youth dance with both venues and producing companies and is passionate about supporting the development of dance within Bristol to provide the city with a thriving, active and professional dance community.

Emma will be at the open space for dance at the Arnolfini on 5th March. She starts on 28th February and is looking forward to meeting the Bristol Dance community. You can reach Emma-Jane on emmajane@theatrebristol.net