A legacy gift is more than a donation - it is a way of passing on the same opportunities, care, and vision that so many have found at The Place. It is a way of honouring the past while ensuring that future generations of dancers, children, and audiences continue to be inspired, surprised, and transformed.
Clare Connor, Chief Executive of The Place and LCDS alum

Clare's Story: From student to Chief Exec

The Place has been a part of my story, since I was 18 years old walking through the doors as a nervous undergraduate, the first in my family to go to university, let alone the first to study dance. In an educational system that never valued dance, it was a big step to dedicate myself to the art form, and I am profoundly grateful to every person that believed in me and for the financial aid that got me to LCDS. It was so joyful and exciting, and opened up opportunities that I would never have known otherwise. Dance was my whole life growing up, and the moment I first stepped into a studio at Duke’s Road, I knew I had made the right decision. Over the next few years, I learned how to learn and to love learning, something which I have carried with me for life.

Since that first moment, at every age and stage, The Place has remained a constant touchstone for me, both personally and professionally. It has always been more than a school; there is a generosity, care, and openness at the core of The Place.

As Chief Executive, I know there is no organisation quite like ours. We accompany artists and students through the whole creative journey, from the very first steps to careers that shape the future of dance. The Place nurtures those who dare to be extraordinary, leading change, sparking ideas, and keeping joy at the heart of everything we do.

By leaving a legacy gift, you help ensure that future generations of dancers, teachers, and artists can stand on their own feet, just as I was supported to stand on mine.

Clare Connor, Chief Executive of The Place and alum

The Place is: A home where makers are made. Where dancers are taught to become performers. Where teachers are taught to teach. Where choreographers are discovered, encouraged and nurtured. It is the place where people are taught to challenge, be curious and be inquisitive. It is the place where people can achieve a career for life.
Anthony Van Laast, alum and Founder of the Peggy Hawkins Fund for Students

Moving dance forward

Dance isn't just what we do: it’s who we are. Since we began, our purpose has been to share the transformative power of dance with everyone. From world-class training to groundbreaking performance and pioneering research, The Place has supported some of the most influential dance artists in the UK and beyond, often from their very first steps.

A single dancer stands half in shadow with their arms raised

Whether you first fell in love with dance in our studios, were moved by a performance on our stage, watched your child flourish at London Contemporary Dance School, or saw one of our artists shine on the world stage, you are already part of our story.

Leaving a legacy is a powerful way to ensure that future generations can experience the same inspiration, opportunity, and joy that The Place has offered you for over 50 years. Your gift will support the artists of tomorrow, the creation of daring new work, and access to dance for people of all ages and backgrounds.

You can help shape the next movement in our story, and we can keep dance thriving at the heart of our culture, our communities, and our lives.

If you are considering leaving a legacy gift to The Place or would like to learn more, please get in touch with Jessica Steele, Development Manager, jessica.steele@theplace.org.uk