Chisenhale Dance Space

Who we are

Chisenhale Dance Space (CDS) is an artist-led charity in East London supporting experimental dance and performance for over 40 years. We provide low-cost studio hire, bold artist-led programming, and year-round support to over 230 artists—70% of whom are from marginalised communities. We’re also one of three organisations housed at Chisenhale Art Place, alongside Chisenhale Gallery and Studios.

Our model prioritises low-barrier access to space, amplifies artist leadership, and fosters a radical grassroots dance culture. From WTF Thursdays to Scratch Renaissance, our programmes are designed to uplift emerging and underrepresented voices.

Our culture and values

Our core values—equity, care, collaboration, autonomy, and experimentation—shape every part of our organisation. We believe in leadership rooted in collectivity and in infrastructure that supports, not restricts, creativity. Working with CDS means embracing dialogue, leaning into uncertainty, and building shared solutions that reflect our communities and artist-led ethos.

Board and staff relationships are horizontal and open, and we value transparency, lived experience, and the messy magic of real experimentation.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Equity isn’t a side project at CDS—it’s central to our governance, programming, and decision-making. We actively prioritise inclusion of Global Majority artists, disabled and neurodivergent creatives, and those underrepresented in arts leadership. Our policies are rooted in anti-racism and anti-ableism, and we seek to model equitable practice sector-wide.

We welcome board members, staff, and collaborators who bring diverse perspectives and lived experiences, and we’re committed to ongoing learning, accountability, and care in all areas of our work.