Home / Impacd / Celebrating the Success of “Freedom to Explore
impacd students smiling on coffee break

Celebrating the Success of “Freedom to Explore

a woman kneels on one leg, her hands infront of her face, she has her head bowed in dance. She wears a yellow cardigan and blue jumpsuit,, her haid is short and grey. Behond her on the dance studio wall is a graffitti of a pride coloured bird wings

Written by

Amanda

We are thrilled to announce the resounding success of our “Freedom to Explore” project, funded by Arts Council England. Over the past year, this initiative has significantly impacted our community, providing inclusive and creative opportunities for individuals of all abilities.

Through this project, we engaged with over 856 participants, achieving impressive footfall across 12 months. Our data can all be found in our end-of-project report. Our sessions focused on dance, movement, and visual arts, fostering a sense of community and enhancing our participants’ physical and emotional well-being. We created a safe, inclusive space where people could express themselves freely and form meaningful connections.

Despite the conclusion of the funding period, we continue to deliver the “Freedom to Explore” sessions twice weekly. The IMPACD CIC team is so dedicated to the project’s mission that our volunteers and staff donate their time three days per week to ensure these essential activities continue. This commitment underscores our belief in the profound benefits of the project for our community.

Our participants have shared numerous stories of personal growth and connection. One attendee mentioned, “Being part of this group has been life-changing. It’s the first time I’ve felt a sense of community since my stroke.” Another participant said, “I keep coming back because I can be my true self here.”

We are incredibly proud of the impact “Freedom to Explore” has had and look forward to continuing to support our community through creative expression and inclusivity.
A middle-aged slender female session leader with short dark hair, wearing a blue jumpsuit and yellow cardigan, eyes closed and serene-looking, moves her arms pensively. Beautiful wings which adorn the back wall of the IMPACD studio seem to come out of her back like a bird in flight.

amanda accessible community dance

Amanda is the Director of IMPACD C.I.C & Todo Latino Dance Co.Ltd. She loves helping people express themselves, improve their fitness and make new connections through dance.

Amanda Hose-Hawley is a remarkable individual who has made significant contributions to the field of dance teaching and learning. With an unwavering passion for inclusivity and accessibility, she has dedicated herself to revolutionizing how people approach the Laban method of actions and dynamics through her groundbreaking work as the Director of IMPCAD CIC.

Amanda’s journey began with a strong foundation in dance education. She distinguished herself by graduating with Distinction from Trinity Laban in 2022, where she earned a Level 6 diploma in dance teaching and learning. Her time at Trinity Laban not only honed her technical skills but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the transformative power of dance.

In 2023, Amanda embarked on a research residency at FABRIC, formerly known as dance4. This opportunity allowed her to collaborate closely with specialist dance leaders who shared her vision of inclusivity. Together, they set out to develop a groundbreaking movement prompt tool called IMP (Inclusive Movement Prompt). IMP aims to make the Laban method of actions and dynamics accessible to all bodies, regardless of their previous experience or how they present themselves.

Amanda completed the research residency through her diligent efforts, leaving an indelible mark on the dance community. IMP not only opens doors for individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities but also shatters barriers that previously limited participation in the Laban method. Her innovative tool empowers dancers of all levels to engage with and excel in the art of movement.

As the Director of IMPCAD CIC, Amanda continues to drive positive change in the field of community dance. Under her leadership, IMPCAD CIC has become a pioneering organisation that promotes inclusivity and accessibility in dance. Amanda’s unwavering commitment to creating spaces where all bodies can thrive has been instrumental in shaping the future of dance teaching and learning.

In addition to her professional achievements, Amanda is known for her warm and approachable nature. She has a gift for connecting with others and inspiring them to embrace their unique abilities. Her infectious enthusiasm and genuine care for the well-being of her students and colleagues make her a beloved figure in the dance community.

Amanda Hose-Hawley’s journey exemplifies the power of dedication, innovation, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of dance. Her tireless efforts to make the Laban method of actions and dynamics inclusive and accessible to all bodies serve as an inspiration to dancers and educators around the world. With her continued contributions, Amanda is reshaping the landscape of dance education and paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future.