Local Oxford based Hip-Hop Theatre company, Body Politic announces new Chair of Directors Rajpal Pardesi.
In what has been a turbulent six months for the organisation due to the impact of the pandemic, Body Politic are pleased to welcome senior arts professional Rajpal Pardesi to the board of directors this Autumn.
Raj has extensive experience working in the Hip-Hop theatre sector as Producer and General Manager for companies such as Avant Garde Dance Company, Boy Blue Entertainment and BirdGang.
As someone who was present at the birth of Hip-Hop Theatre in the UK, Raj has a wealth of knowledge which he is keen to bring to his role of Chair at Body Politic.
“I am delighted to be part of the ongoing growth of Hip-Hop theatre companies in the UK. We hope to continue and support BP’s values and objectives for reinvesting into the culture and art for current and the next generation of artists, leaders and audiences.” – RAJPAL PARDESI
Despite a period of sustained success and emergency funding granted from Arts Council England, the next few years will be highly challenging for the Body Politic and the cultural sector more generally. Raj will have a key role to play in ensuring the organisation is best placed to face challenges that lie ahead and can continue to enrich people’s lives through Hip-Hop dance, while honouring its core values of creativity, excellence and inclusivity.
QUOTES FROM PARTNERS / CRITICAL REVIEWS
“During my time as Relationship Manager for Dance at Arts Council England, South East I was impressed with the grit, creativity and imagination shown by Body Politic in all their projects.
Working at the very grass roots and inspiring new generations with their teaching through to thought-provoking, hip hop inspired shows is no easy task and they manage it great skill and spirit.”
KYLA BOOTH-LUCKING – Co-Director Clearcut and Director of Programming and Participation, Brighton Dome
“Having known Emma-Jane and worked with Body Politic for several years now, I have always been impressed by their dedication to the development and nurturing of young people’s talent, well-being and constantly inspiring them to strive to be the best that they can be. The energy and passion is their main driving force, with an unswerving commitment to both inform, challenge and inspire audiences with their work.
Their performance works feeds seamlessly through to their education work; developing and encouraging the talents of the younger generation, with inspiring and talented role models. They are a company both Dancin’ Oxford dance festival and Oxford City Council’s Culture Team are proud to support, and Dancin’ Oxford looks forward to continuing the strong partnership, they have developed over the last couple of years.”
CLAIRE THOMPSON – Director of Dancin’ Oxford and Arts Development Officer for Oxford City Council
For press enquiries please contact Lee Griffiths producer@bodypoliticdance.com