Scottish Ballet’s mission is to ‘inspire onstage and beyond’, bringing the benefits of dance to everyone regardless of age, ability and background. As Scotland’s national dance company, we wanted to create a safe space for young people to explore issues of diversity and inclusion in an increasingly challenging world, encouraging an open dialogue where it is ‘safe to be me’. Our vision was to create a programme for 9-11 year olds that celebrates differences, guided by the Scottish Government’s 2018 campaign against homophobia, racism, bigotry, transphobia and ableism.
In 2019 we created Safe to Be Me, supported by Aberdeen Standard Investments. ASI have a companywide inclusivity strategy and network. Their commitment to diversity and integration within the company vision made them the perfect partner for STBM. A pilot stage was delivered in spring 2019, and stage one in autumn 2019.
Workshops with primary 6 pupils took place across the Highlands and the central belt. Through learning basic ballet technique and collaborative working, participants worked with the delivery team to create their own performance while learning how to be open to the uniqueness of their classmates.
STBM engaged with over 800 participants in 29 schools throughout Scotland during year one. ASI have confirmed support for year two, which will include delivery in Glasgow schools in early 2021 alongside an innovative digital STBM festival. This has potential for extensive reach and engagement far beyond Scotland and the opportunity to integrate further within ASI’s own networks to help deliver their diversity objectives.
