Founded in 2020 by Stacey Green, The TIRED Movement (Trying to Improve Racial Equality in Dance) works to create meaningful change across dance and the wider performing arts sector. Through education, research, workshops and community engagement, TIRED champions representation, inclusion and equity, while creating space for honest conversations and shared learning.
At NSCD, we know that supporting the next generation of artists is about more than what happens in the studio. It is about creating an environment where everyone feels seen, valued and able to realise their potential.
TIRED’s work strongly aligns with NSCD’s commitment to widening access, nurturing diverse talent, and helping artists build careers in which they can thrive. We believe creating a more representative dance sector is something we all have a role in, and that lasting change happens when organisations work together.
As NSCD CEO and Principal Sharon Watson MBE DL explains:
“At Northern School of Contemporary Dance, we understand the importance of creating pathways that enable artists to thrive, be seen, and fulfil their potential. We are therefore delighted to support TIRED Connect and its commitment to championing, connecting and amplifying global majority creatives across the performing arts sector.”
Our relationship with TIRED has grown over several years, including Stacey Green visiting NSCD to speak with students and facilitate open and honest conversations around representation and inclusion.
Reflecting on the relationship, Stacey says:
“NSCD has been a valued supporter of the TIRED Movement for a number of years, and our relationship is built on a shared commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and meaningful change within dance education. What I admire most about NSCD is their genuine dedication to creating opportunities through partnership and collaboration, recognising that lasting progress happens when organisations work together.”
These conversations are incredibly valuable for our students, helping them consider their own experiences, future careers and the kind of dance sector they want to be part of. As Stacey explains:
“I have had the privilege of delivering talks to NSCD students and engaging in open, honest conversations about representation, inclusion and the importance of creating environments where everyone feels seen, valued and heard. These discussions are vital in shaping the next generation of artists and educators.”
A key part of our relationship is our support for TIRED Connect, a platform bringing people and organisations across the dance sector together while championing Global Majority talent and amplifying the voices of minoritised communities.
NSCD was one of the very first education centres to join TIRED Connect, demonstrating our shared commitment to building a stronger, more connected industry. Stacey says:
“Their early support demonstrated a clear understanding of how important it is to build a stronger, more connected industry that celebrates Global Majority talent and champions the voices of minoritised communities.”
For NSCD, being part of TIRED Connect is about listening, learning and contributing to positive change across the sector. As Sharon says:
“We know that representation, visibility and meaningful networks matter. They not only shape individual careers but also strengthen the cultural ecology as a whole.”
We are proud to work alongside TIRED to challenge barriers, celebrate diversity and create greater opportunities for Global Majority creatives across the performing arts and look forward to building a dance sector that is richer, more representative and more inclusive for everyone.
