This summer, Leeds has been a shining example of how art can serve as a powerful tool for social change and community resilience. At the heart of this movement is the Balbir Singh Dance Company (BSDC), which has seamlessly blended artistic expression with activism to bring people together during these challenging times.
Through impactful partnerships BSDC has demonstrated how art can unite communities, even those facing significant hardship and under resourcing. BSDC’s work goes beyond performances; it’s about healing divisions to create a sense of belonging. This is evident in their long-term collaboration with Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods, where they focused on creative walks celebrating nature in the city.
Inclusive fair and fashion show promotes upcycling, recycling and sustainability
Back in July, the inaugural Gledhow Valley Green Fair, a celebration of nature and togetherness, was such a great example of this. It featured an eco-fashion show that was more than just a display of creativity – it was a statement on sustainability and inclusion. The event, held in a traffic-free zone, showcased stunning pieces crafted from recycled and upcycled materials, highlighting the beauty of mindful consumption.
Behind the show was a new partnership between BSDC and Harehills Creative Women’s Group. “We wanted to show that sustainable fashion can be beautiful and inclusive. The Gledhow Green Fair event was truly energising for the community”, said Natalie Tharraleos, a Harehills-based community creative consultant and one of the event’s organisers.
The lead artist for the fashion show, Goodness Woodhead (Esustainable fashion) a Leeds-based community artist with an interest in sustainable fashion, has been collaborating with women from the Harehills group. “Like many communities, Harehills is under-resourced, and groups like the Harehills Creative Women’s Group can make a massive difference”, said Goodness.
She went on to explain:
“Women from various backgrounds come together to learn and share creative skills. This work brings joy and is very inclusive. It doesn’t matter how much or how little you have; everyone can elevate themselves. I got to meet so many amazing women and teach them to walk with pride.”
Creative arts helping the Harehills community
In light of recent civil unrest, particularly in Harehills where summer troubles began, BSDC’s initiatives have taken on even greater significance. The company has shown that through art and cultural exchange, we can build a more resilient and united society. “We are facing challenges this summer for sure”, said Balbir Singh, artistic director of BSDC. “As a company, we are figuring out how we should respond, while cautiously moving forward. Despite all the negatives, art reminds us that solutions often lie in local actions and personal connections.”
One of BSDC’s current initiatives is its resilient artist programme. Balbir invited the women from Harehills to join in a training session he’d organised on trauma-informed practice, working alongside BSDC’s professional dancers. Natalie and Goodness were among the attendees, at the prestigious Northern School of Contemporary dance and facilitated by Miranda Arieh. The experience was transformative. “It was hugely appreciated by every single person that attended”, said Goodness.
Teaming up with BSDC has been a turning point for Goodness, who is now fully committed to her passion for sustainable fashion. “A lot of fashion shows are about the designer’s vision, and all the models are the same body shape. Our fashion shows are different”, she said. “Our models help curate the show, from upcycled clothes of their own design.”
“Working with the dancers brought a new dimension – it expanded everyone’s experience. That’s why I love partnership work”, added Natalie. “It expands everything.”
Bringing groups together through caring and culture
As Leeds continues to heal and grow, BSDC’s work is a testament to the power of community-driven art in creating understanding and resilience. “The word ‘resilience’ means different things to different people”, said Balbir.
“Our resilient artist programme is not only about artists gaining new skills needed to get work in various settings, it’s about their health and wellbeing. Connecting to the body through movement; connecting to music. Choosing arts as a career can itself be traumatic in certain communities and families. The eco-fashion show brings different groups together – including vulnerable people – to collaborate and to celebrate their creativity in a way that is sustainable and joyful.”
Look out for the next eco-fashion show which will be at the Chapel Allerton Arts Festival in Leeds on Saturday 31 August at 1pm, further showcasing the vibrant and inclusive spirit of the city.
Leeds remains a beacon of how art and culture can bring people together, even in the face of adversity, proving that when times are tough, creativity and community can be so significant in the healing process.
Balbir Singh Dance Company is supported by Arts Council England and by Leeds City Council.
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