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Who we are.

CHAIR

Sule Taylor

VICE-CHAIR

Yasmin Taylor

TREASURER

Hannah Harrison

SECRETARY

Terri Russell

ADMINISTRATOR

Claire Cadman

TROPHY AND MEDIA SECRETARY

Vicki Brunink

SAFEGUARDING

Hannah Harrison

TEACHER ADVISORS

Gloria White, Vicki Elliott, Jena Tyler, Liza Carter

ORDINARY MEMBERS

Janice Gough
All enquiries to
Mrs Sule Taylor
70 Crescent Road
Locks Heath
SO31 6PF
Telephone: 01489 600863
​Email:
[email protected]
Affiliated to the British & International Federation of Festivals for Music, Dance & Speech

We are an All England nominated festival providing a pathway through to the ​​All England Dance competition on alternate years
Registered Charity Number 1032283 

Funding.

The Southampton Stage Dance Festival, like the 300+ other Festivals which are affiliated to the British and International Federation of Festivals, is a registered charity and receives no public funding, no government grants, no lottery funding and no Arts Council grants.

The Festival derives its income wholly from entry fees and door/ticket charges. The Voluntary Organising Committee aims for a split of approximately 50/50 between these two sources of income to limit competitor costs to a reasonable level. The event incurs many expenses, the major ones being (2018) the hire of the theatre and associated costs (approx 45%), adjudicator’s fees/expenses (approx 20%), and medals/certificates/awards (approx 9%).

The Festival movement is dedicated to providing the opportunity for young people to perform in public and to receive advice and encouragement from professional adjudicators. By bringing this creative art into the community, the Festival provides audiences with some excellent entertainment at a reasonable price.
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It is possible that expenses could be reduced by re-locating to a less expensive venue, e.g. a school, but this type of accommodation is very difficult to find and the Committee feels that the best platform available - a professional theatre stage with proper changing rooms, tiered seating and other facilities - should be provided.
It is hoped that the above information provides a little background into the way our Festival is organised. Donations in cash and kind, and any other help are always welcome. The Festival is organised entirely by volunteer staff. Volunteers to assist with the running of the Festival, particularly during the actual week at the theatre are always needed. Please contact a Committee member if you wish to help in any way. 

Social Value Report.

Overview

​The Southampton Stage Dance Festival (SSDF), a registered charity (No. 1032283), is a long-standing cultural event held annually at The Point Theatre in Eastleigh, Hampshire. Now in its 85th year, the festival provides an educational and performance platform for young dancers aged 3 to 21. It is a non-profit organisation run by a dedicated team of trustees and volunteers, with no paid staff or trading subsidiaries.

1. Benefits to Young People

Educational and Artistic Development

SSDF is designed to advance education in the arts, particularly in dance, music, speech, and drama. It offers high-quality, constructive feedback through adjudication, helping young performers refine their skills and build confidence. The festival encourages creativity, discipline, and resilience, key traits for personal and professional development.

Inclusive Participation

Open to all abilities, the festival fosters inclusivity and diversity in the performing arts. Young People from across the UK, including the Channel Islands (Jersey and Guernsey), participate, promoting cultural exchange and broadening horizons.

2. Volunteering Opportunities

Community Engagement
 

SSDF is supported by in excess of 16 volunteers (and some young ambassadors) who help with event logistics, administration, and participant support. Volunteering at SSDF offers valuable experience in event management, arts administration, and youth engagement.

Skills Development

Volunteers gain transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. These roles are particularly beneficial for students and early-career professionals seeking experience in the arts or nonprofit sectors.

3. Economic Impact

Local Economy Boost

​The festival attracts hundreds of participants and their families, many of whom stay in local accommodations, dine in restaurants, and shop in Eastleigh and Southampton. Teams from Jersey and Guernsey travel to compete, contributing to tourism and hospitality revenue.

Venue Utilisation

The Point Theatre benefits from full-day bookings across the festival week, supporting its sustainability and visibility as a cultural hub.

Spending and Investment

In the financial year ending September 2024, SSDF reported:
  • Income: £16,909
  • Expenditure: £19,491

This reflects investment in adjudication, venue hire, trophies, and festival materials, all of which support local suppliers and services.

4. Broader Social Impact

​Cultural Enrichment

SSDF contributes to Southampton’s reputation as a vibrant cultural city, aligning with the city’s Festival & Events Strategy 2022–2032. It nurtures future artists and performers, some of whom may go on to professional careers in the arts.

Cross-Regional Collaboration

The inclusion of Channel Island teams fosters regional cooperation and strengthens ties between communities. Other performers come, not only from Hampshire, but from Dorset, Sussex and Surrey recognizing the festival offers a welcoming and friendly environment for all participants and audiences.

Conclusion

The Southampton Stage Dance Festival delivers significant social value through youth development, volunteer engagement, and economic stimulation. Its commitment to inclusivity, education, and cultural celebration makes it a cornerstone of the region’s arts landscape.
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