Dance for over 50s since 2001 · Tottenham and across Haringey
Dancers aged 50 to 90, still taking the stage.
BADGE runs weekly dance and chair dance classes for older adults across North London, led by choreographer Candy Fernandes. This page gives funders everything they need in one place: what we do, who we reach, what your support pays for and how to get in touch.
- 8
- classes every week
- 7
- community venues in N8, N15, N17 and N22
- 50 to 90
- the age range of our dancers
- 3
- free classes each week, with the rest kept affordable
Who we are
Dance to the rhythm of your heart, at any age and any ability.
For funders: our constitution, latest accounts, safeguarding policy, public liability insurance and impact reports are all in place and available on request. Use the contact form below and we will send them to you.
BADGE brings adults over 50 together to dance, stretch and move to music in a friendly, low pressure setting. Our lead instructor, Candy Fernandes, choreographs every routine to suit each person's ability, with the aim of improving health and maintaining stability.
Members learn styles from all genres and cultures: Waltz, Cha Cha Cha, Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Axé, Guaracha, Line Dancing, African, Portuguese, Greek and Irish. Chair dance classes mean people with limited mobility can join in too.
BADGE has been running since 2001 and is a constituted community group, so members, partners and funders can see exactly how we are run.
Health and stability
Routines built for balance, mobility and stamina, helping members stay active and independent for longer.
Friendship and belonging
A weekly reason to get out and see friends. At the Goan Community Centre, chair dance is followed by whist, carrom, dominoes and a shared meal.
Confidence on stage
Members rehearse towards public shows in real theatres, performing for family, friends and the wider community.
On stage
Invited to dance across North London
Our dancers have performed on many stages, from the Over 50s Concert at Millfield Theatre to the town halls of Barnet and Haringey, where they danced at the invitation of both Mayors and were praised for the work they do. Every show is a chance for members aged 50 to 90 to share what they learn each week.
- Millfield Theatre, Edmonton
- Barnet Town Hall, invited by the Mayor of Barnet
- Haringey Civic Centre Awards Ceremony
- Science Museum
- Alexandra Palace
- Golders Green Greenfield
- and many more
Full performances, rehearsals and member stories are on Candy's YouTube channel.
Watch more on YouTube (opens in a new tab)In their own words
Hear from our members.
Short video testimonials from the people who dance with us every week.
Our impact
What changes for the people who come.
Figures from our latest member survey.
80%
say their balance and stability have improved
100%
enjoy the social atmosphere and feel less isolated
90%
have made new friends, and many buddy up to travel home together
[QUOTE]
Our projects
Many projects, all made possible by people who believe in them.
Every BADGE project runs with support from funding organisations, philanthropists and volunteers. There is always more we want to do, and many of our projects are looking for support right now. Get in touch and we will match you with the work that fits your aims.
Weekly classes
Keeping eight classes a week running, and the free ones free.
Chair dance
Seated classes so people with limited mobility can join in.
Concerts and shows
Theatre performances that give members a stage and a goal to work towards.
Wellbeing events
Special series combining movement, music and community for over 50s.
Who makes it happen
Funders and supporters who have backed our work
- The National Lottery
- East London Community Foundation
- Big Local
- Haringey Parks Foundation
- Sure Start
- Local ward funders
Ways to work with us
Project grants
Fund one of our projects, with clear outputs, dates and an end of project report.
Keep classes free
Cover the running costs of our free weekly classes so members on fixed incomes can keep coming all year round.
Partnerships in kind
Offer venue space, theatre time, transport or volunteer help to widen who can take part.
Funder enquiries
Come and dance with us before you decide.
You are welcome to visit any class and meet our members. Fill in the form to arrange a visit, request our governance documents or talk about funding, and Candy will get back to you.
