Madam, - The Association of Professional Dancers in Ireland (APDI) recently won the tender to operate the National Dance Centre (DanceHouse) on Foley Street, Dublin 1.
This is the single most exciting development in our history; for the first time ever there will be a much needed and dedicated facility for dance in Dublin. We acknowledge the role of Dublin City Council and the Arts Council in coming together to provide this facility.
Now, we are in the process of appointing a CEO and staff to bring our organisation forward to oversee the fit-out of the new building, and to operate it into the future. We were therefore surprised to read Kitty Holland's report of May 2nd highlighting the concerns of local dance groups that they would be excluded from the building. It is unfortunate that Ms Holland did not solicit our opinion in writing the article.
Although we have not got our feet over the threshold, it is our intention to operate an open and inclusive policy in the DanceHouse. As the operators of the building, we look forward to working with and welcoming all dancers in the local community.
We are an avowedly elitist organisation because we are dedicated to excellence. Our policy is to achieve that excellence by working locally, nationally and internationally to tap the great reserve of talent in dance. We look forward to meeting, talking and working with everyone with an interest in dance, for the benefit of all.
- Yours, etc,
LIZ ROCHE, Chair, APDI, Dublin 1.