Hampshire Cultural Trust

From grassroots origins to international audiences, we produce high-quality dance projects, develop artistic careers and improve wellbeing for our participants. Our medium is the classical Indian dance of Odissi. Originating from the Bay of Bengal over two thousand years ago, Odissi deals with contemporary and classical themes that remain just as relevant in storytelling today. Its narratives are researched and presented to audiences as both movements and rasas, representing emotions of real life experiences such as love, devotion, anger and playfulness. Our dancers and artists deliver renowned workshops and performances that bring Odissi to thousands of new audience members every year.

Culture in Common is a community-led arts and culture programme for the New Forest, funded by Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places initiative. Led by a consortium including Energise Me, Folio, The Handy Trust, New Forest District Council, and the National Park Authority, it aims to increase cultural engagement in underserved areas. Since 2022, it has reached over 45,000 residents through workshops, exhibitions, and creative clubs, co-designed with local communities to reflect their interests and needs.

Funk Format is a leading Hip-Hop arts organisation specialising in Authentic Street Dance and Theatre. With 26 years of experience, it is the longest-running Hip-Hop dance specialist in the Solent region. Funk Format made history by launching Hampshire’s first-ever Hip-Hop dance festival and bringing original pioneers from New York to communities across the South Coast. Its innovative projects, inspiring sessions, and performances spark creativity, confidence, and self-belief through the power of dance. Led by officially qualified and experienced Street Dance teachers, Funk Format delivers high-quality dance education across the UK, Europe, and worldwide-setting the standard for authentic, impactful Street Dance teaching.