What we do

Dare to dance, dance to change lives

Rubicon Dance is a social arts organisation that has been delivering dance to people of all ages and abilities since 1975. We deliver dance opportunities for people and communities across Newport, Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan and we have built a strong, nationally recognised reputation for our ability to reach those who are often excluded from the arts.

Rubicon exists to unlock self-expression, so that people discover their potential, feel motivated and connected to the world. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to discover their own potential and nurture their individual talents. This is why we have made it our mission to challenge traditional views of what it means to dance; whether this is where we dance, who we dance with, or what artistic expression looks like.

Dare to dance, dance to connect

Rubicon works in schools, health and social care settings and community venues of all kinds, as well as at our own premises in the heart of the Adamsdown. In a typical week we work with approximately 2000 participants, offering accessible, imaginative and preventative dance initiatives.

Rubicon’s work helps a variety of people, including children and young people; the disabled; patients in hospitals; stroke survivors, and the socially isolated elderly. Our sessions are delivered on a consistent and continuous basis throughout the year, encouraging people to express themselves, develop confidence and look after their wellbeing.

Rubicon takes its work to communities and we commit to them for the long term. In many instances we have worked with some of our groups for decades. By embedding this approach into everything we do we aim to help individuals experience a new sense of belonging and achieve their full potential.

Dare to dance, dance to inspire

Rubicon develops and supports the dance sector in Wales by discovering, nurturing and curating talent wherever it may be. We provide a variety of progression routes for dancers, allowing them to explore their love for dance and thrive creatively. Be it through a GCSE, Arts Award, or performance group, we encourage individuals to become exceptional artists, collaborators and innovators for Wales.

Rubicon also strives to connect the dance workforce in Wales. Our Wales Wide Training Programme provides affordable, regular training throughout Wales and creates opportunities for organisations, practitioners, and artists to network and share ideas. Rubicon’s community dance apprenticeship scheme introduces highly skilled practitioners to the sector and has been adopted by organisations across Wales.

Rubicon can picture a Wales where people are surrounded by opportunity and aspiration through dance. By supporting Wales’s dance sector we hope to contribute to the vibrant and ambitious creativity of our country, communities, and culture.