Ninety-five per cent of theatre-based organisations reported to be negatively impacted by the pandemic, with the total losses from these groups amounting to roughly £200 million.
This has ultimately put 1 in 4 freelance organisations or performers out of work, forcing them to leave the sector altogether.
But there are some
green shoots of recovery! Children's ballet school,
babyballet Brighton West, Hove, Shoreham, Haywards Heath and Peacehaven is currently witnessing a
huge increase in demand for their fun-filled classes and are on the
lookout for more people with the sparkling talent that lights up their family of dance teachers.
A staggering 3,500-plus children are currently on babyballet's waiting list nationally.
It is because of this that Miss Kelly, the owner of babyballet Brighton West, Hove, Shoreham, Haywards Heath and Peacehaven, is encouraging those with professional dance experience to consider applying for one of their teaching roles.
"With restrictions during our re-opening, we were only allowed as few as five children in a class, resulting in long waiting lists and many parents disheartened," said Miss Kelly.
"Now, as we can return to our normal levels of up to 18 in a class, we're pleased to have a number of roles opening up for our sector.
"We're searching for enthusiastic and passionate dance teachers to join our wonderful team and help the next generation of talent flourish."
It is not uncommon for performers in their late twenties to retire from professional dancing or have limited access to roles. babyballet is offering the opportunity for professionals to continue using their expertise, inspiring children to dance.
Our current team of teachers have come from backgrounds such as choreography for professional theatre groups or ex-professional performers.
"When lockdown was announced back in March 2020 it was a devastating blow to our business and we had just two days to completely change our business model… it was the toughest challenge we had ever faced, but we are proud of how we were able to offer some sort of normality to our little stars and keep them dancing at home throughout lockdown.
"With the support of our babyballet parents and our team of fabulous teachers, we continued to dance with our little ones and keep the business running until we were able to open our physical classes again," added Miss Kelly.
The local branch of babyballet equips their teachers to help children between the ages of six months to six years old learn ballet and dance.
They undergo specific training and by pairing this with their professional dance background, they create a fun, friendly and inclusive experience for everyone – no matter the child's age or ability.