To mark Mental Health Awareness week we wanted to take some time to highlight the importance of dance and movement, and why it plays such an important role in your mental wellbeing.

Whether it’s attending a regular dance class or putting on some music and dancing around the living room, moving to music is scientifically proven to boost your mood and have a positive effect on mental health.

Our Hippodrome Associates and partners are doing incredible things online, showing ways to stay active and feel good whilst learning a new skill. Each of our Associates and Partners have their own unique styles, so there is something for everyone – even if you have never thought of dancing for fitness before.

Sonia Sabri Company

Sonia Sabri Company are a multi award-winning dance and music company that have established an international reputation for Kathak dance.

They have a full programme of live online classes throughout the week aiming to strengthen and nourish physically, mentally and emotionally well-being. This includes Kathak for a range of levels, Classical Bollywood, Tabla, Yoga and Chair Dance for those who may have mobility issues.

All information can be found on their website here, you can email info@ssco.org.uk for full details and to register.

Motionhouse

Motionhouse create world class dance-circus productions that tour extensively both inside venues and at outdoor events such as festivals.

The Motionhouse team have launched their #TogetherInIsolation programme where their dancers have created some amazing classes to keep you busy, fit and motivated during lockdown. There are over 30 beginners to intermediate classes to choose from that are aimed at a variety of ages from 3 to over 60.

You can find full details of their classes on their website here, or check out all the workouts on their YouTube channel.

ZooNation

ZooNation are ground-breaking storytellers that use music and dance to inspire the next generation of theatregoers and makers.

During lockdown they’ve launched their ‘Dance on Demand’ series – where they have created a series of high energy dance classes to take part in at home. Each class involves different techniques that explore ZooNation’s signature Hip-Hop style. The classes are a fantastic opportunity to try something new and improve your Hip-Hop moves.

Find Dance on Demand on their YouTube channel here. All information can be found on their website.

DanceXchange 

The DanceXchange studios are usually brimming with people taking part in a fantastic programme of dance classes. Despite the current situation, they are still delivering a range of classes through their digital programme, so you can dance in the comfort of your home.

DanceXchange have been running a series of online dance workshops for free on Instagram and Facebook. Their Instagram classes include ballet, yoga, commercial, vogue and musical jazz. On Facebook, they’ve launched DXtra Kids classes that are fun for the whole family to take part in. These include ballet, street dance, yoga and pop party.

All information can be found on their website, you can find the workouts on DanceXchange’s Instagram and Facebook page.

New Adventures

Sir Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures have launched a digital platform ‘Reel Adventures’ with a selection of content to connect you with their award-winning dance company.

They are running live classes over on their Instagram, featuring past and present company dancers and exclusive Company Classes taught by their Associate Artistic Director Etta Murfitt.

The company have also launched Workshop Weekends with a host of activities and workshops tailored for all ages and abilities, each with a focus on a different New Adventures production. All information can be found on their website.