When I started work at Déda in March of 2020 I had little idea that my first week in post would end with the closure of the building for several months!
The challenges of dealing with a life-threatening pandemic, the complexities of getting to know my team and the mysteries of Zoom meetings would all be the hallmark of my tour of duty with the organisation.
I have guided the organisation through the Pandemic, a serious threat to its continued lease on Chapel Street; the relaunch of the building after its enforced closure during the Pandemic – Our theatre and class programmes; Derby Well; the re-launch of Festé; Altered Streets; the Derbyland Culture Map, and finally we herald the return of the BA contemporary Dance and Wellbeing course next year – all while attempting to meet the challenges the cost-of-living crisis, and the lingering impact of Covid.
I love Déda and everything it represents. I have relished every challenge set before me, putting all my creative energy into making Déda a key Dance, Movement and Creative institution in Derby and the Midlands. I hope that I have contributed something positive to the ongoing debate around Dance, Culture and its impact on our daily lives. However, I acknowledge that it is time for me to step aside and allow someone else to move Déda forwards.
To all the Déda staff, I would like to say I have enjoyed our time working together. You are amazing though I know that the times have been challenging and difficult for you all.
I hope the months and years to come are calmer, more prosperous, and creative than those we have just experienced, and that Déda can continue to be an exemplar of all that is great about Derby and Dance.
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