Just Us Dance Theatre Ltd

Just Us Dance Theatre Ltd is a UK-based nonprofit organization that plays a significant role in the development and promotion of Hip Hop dance. It is led by Artistic Director Joseph Toonga, a visionary choreographer known for blending Hip Hop with contemporary narratives to address social issues.

History

Founded in 2007, Just Us Dance Theatre was established with the goal of bringing together young Hip Hop dancers and early career artists from diverse backgrounds. Joseph Toonga, originating from Cameroon and raised in East London, envisioned a platform to support these artists, particularly from Black and ethnic minority communities, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The organization aims to create opportunities that help bridge geographic, economic, and social barriers, allowing more people to engage in arts and culture.

Programmes and Initiatives

Just Us Dance Theatre has been instrumental in creating development programs for young artists. One of its key initiatives is the Let’s Shine Mentorship Programme, initiated in 2013 after Joseph Toonga won the Deutsche Bank Award. This program connected educational establishments in Newham, providing weekly training and performance opportunities. Additionally, the organization offers career pathways and substantial resources to foster growth and improve the quality of partnerships within the UK dance sector.

In 2023, the organization became an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation, solidifying its contribution to the UK Hip Hop dance theatre scene. This recognition underscores its commitment to supporting and developing diverse artists and professionals in the UK and internationally.

Artistic Style and Impact

Joseph Toonga’s choreographic style is characterized by its fusion of Hip Hop with life experiences, tackling societal norms and racial stigmas. Through performances like Born to Protest, he challenges presumptions about Black male and female figures by exploring themes of fragility, vulnerability, and resilience. This work not only showcases artistic excellence but also sparks transformative conversations about identity and societal expectations.

Charity Status

Just Us Dance Theatre Ltd is registered with the Charity Commission under the number 1211839. As a recently registered charity, it continues to build on its mission to nurture artistic talent and promote cultural inclusion through Hip Hop dance.

Impact and Vision

Through its initiatives and performances, Just Us Dance Theatre inspires young people, creates progression routes for diverse artists, and provides opportunities for professionals and developing artists both in the UK and internationally. Its vision is to consolidate support for the UK Hip Hop dance sector while fostering a more inclusive and vibrant cultural landscape.

[1] https://justusdancetheatre.com [2] https://justusdancetheatre.com/about/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/sector-data/top-10-charities/-/charity-details/5221571 [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5221571 [5] https://bidf.co.uk/born-to-protest-by-just-us-dance-theatre/