International Women's Day 2023

You know how people say ‘pick your battles’? And you know how we often choose causes about which we’re passionate and are prepared to support? I’m going to come clean and say women’s issues have rarely been my battle. It has been fascinating watching the conversation around ‘Tar’, and Simone Young steadfastly refusing to be pulled into commentary about being a woman in her chosen profession. So I find myself leading an organisation in a sector almost entirely represented by women and finally notice how few women are artistic directors of major dance companies. Given an estimated pipeline of 200 females to 1 male, we must look at why only 50% of the artistic directors of our companies are female. International Women's Day is an important day of celebration and recognition for women across the world, and it is particularly significant in our world of dance. Dance leadership has historically been male-dominated, with women often facing discrimination and inequality in terms of access to training, opportunities, and recognition.

 

International Women's Day provides an opportunity to highlight the contributions of women to the world of dance, and to acknowledge the ongoing struggles and achievements of women in this field.

Tell us about a woman you’d like to celebrate, who has made a contribution to your world of dance.

International Women's Day is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the issue of gender inequality within the industry. While there have been many talented and influential female dancers, choreographers, and directors throughout history, women have often been excluded from positions of power and decision-making. International Women's Day provides an opportunity to highlight the ongoing struggle for gender equality within the industry, and to recognize the work of those who are fighting for change.

Tell us about your struggle for equity, for equal pay or about someone you know who is fighting that fight for our sector.

In addition to highlighting issues of gender inequality, International Women's Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the practical achievements of women in this field.

 

There have been many ground-breaking female dancers and choreographers throughout history, who have pushed boundaries and expanded the range of what is possible in dance. On this day we acknowledge these achievements and aim to inspire a new generation of female dancers to pursue their dreams. International Women's Day provides a platform for women to share their stories and experiences. Women in dance have faced unique challenges and barriers, and International Women's Day provides a space for them to share their perspectives and to connect with others who have faced similar struggles. By sharing your stories and experiences, women in dance can help to raise awareness about the issues facing women in the industry and to inspire others to join the fight for gender equality. It is up to all of us to make it better for all of those not yet able, not yet dancing, not yet born.


 

About the Author

JULIE ENGLEFIELD

Executive Director

Julie has worked across the disciplines of music, theatre, visual and performing arts in general management, fundraising, sales and marketing for over 25 years.

Her experience in both the commercial (Steinway & Sons) and non-profit (arts and health sectors) provide her with unique insight into what is required for successful and sustainable partnerships. Julie has a solid background in non-profit governance, having also been part of the Singapore Government’s workgroup to develop a national Code of Governance for non-profits. In particular, Julie’s belief in and understanding of the Arts has enabled her to walk the fine line of building commercially robust organisations whilst retaining absolute integrity of artistic purpose.