The Dunedin office of the South Island Dance Network has been relaunched following a hiatus of several months. Initiated by the Christchurch based Dance and Physical Theatre Trust (Dapht) the network aims to provide a strong voice for dance with the Dunedin office specifically focusing on the Otago region.

The Dunedin office of the South Island Dance Network has been relaunched following a hiatus of several months. Initiated by the Christchurch based Dance and Physical Theatre Trust (Dapht) the network aims to provide a strong voice for dance with the Dunedin office specifically focusing on the Otago region.

The South Island Dance Network is to be hosted in Dunedin by the Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust who believe there is a strong affinity between the network and their main project – the Dunedin Fringe Festival.

Trust and Festival Director, Paul Smith, says the dance network is an important project that will support the development of the dance community and facilitates professional development and employment opportunities for dancers.

“This is a great project that we are very pleased to be involved with. The Fringe Festival provides some fantastic performance opportunities for contemporary dancers, but the network website provides a broader and more ongoing presence and support mechanism.”

A key aspect of the South Island Dance Network is its website – www.southislanddancenetwork.org.nz. Many dance groups are already listed and more will be canvassed, with the ultimate aim being to have all dance activity in Dunedin featured within six months. Dance groups can list workshops and events, while the public will be able to easily find dance classes and keep up to date with opportunities to get involved in dance activities.

The Fringe Trust has employed Karin Reid as the Dunedin Coordinator of the network. The part time position started in late July and involves managing the website, holding meetings with the dance community to assess their needs and providing support and advice. Reid has worked for the Fringe Trust as Festival Coordinator since 2007 and has been an active member of the arts community for over 15 years.

The Dunedin Coordinator can be contacted on 03 474-9514 or karin@thebody.co.nz .