Angharad Harrop, PhD, has been appointed as the Head of Dance at Arts Council of Wales, in a new role created as part of the organisation’s restructure with a renewed focus on individual artforms, engagement and business support.
As Head of Dance at Arts Council Wales, she aims to champion creativity, inclusivity, and the power of dance to connect people, place, and imagination, to ensure that all communities in Wales can experience the joy and vitality of dance.
Catryn Ramasut, Director of Arts at Arts Council of Wales said,
“With nearly two decades of experience in community, education, and performance, we feel very lucky to have Angharad joining us to lead on Dance. She has built an extensive portfolio career collaborating with organisations including Eisteddfod Genedlaethol, Cirque Bijou, Theatr Cymru, and National Dance Company Wales and we look forward to working together to respond to the needs of the sector and support our talent to thrive.”
The appointment follows an extensive review into the dance sector in Wales, which made a series of recommendations:
Strategic review calls for action to reimagine, rebuild and reinvest in Dance in Wales
Angharad Harrop said,
"Having grown up in Wales and worked as an independent artist for over 20 years, I have both benefited from and witnessed the passion, dedication, and artistry of those who make dance thrive in all its forms within communities across the nation.
“Throughout Wales there is outstanding dance practice that inspires, connects, and enriches lives. This practice, driven by committed and skilled individuals and organisations, creates spaces where people can express themselves, reflect and find belonging; something that society needs now more than ever.
“As highlighted in the Wales Dance Review, we are at a pivotal point for dance in Wales. I feel very privileged to be stepping into the role of Head of Dance at the Arts Council of Wales at this time. Drawing on my experience across community practice, health and wellbeing, education, performance, and research, I look forward to supporting dance in Wales to flourish, evolve, and continue to inspire our communities."