Based on the Henwood Industrial Estate, JV H. O. M. E. welcomes people of all ages and abilities through a programme of classes, workshops and performances. From creative dance sessions for children aged five and above to their newest Creative Movement classes for adults over 50, the building has become a welcoming place where people can improve their wellbeing, discover creativity and connect with others.

Education sits at the heart of their work. Through their partnership with their Associate Schools network, which now includes 11 Ashford-based schools, they work closely with teachers and young people to inspire confidence, creativity and participation through dance. At a time when dance participation at Key Stages 4 and 5 is declining nationally, their collaborative approach is helping to reverse the trend locally. One partner school has reported a threefold increase in students choosing dance at GCSE and

A-level, demonstrating the transformative impact that sustained engagement with professional artists can have on young people.

Beyond their community and education programmes, JV H. O. M. E. has established itself as an important creative resource for the wider performing arts sector. Their purpose-built production space and rehearsal studios welcome leading national companies, including Akram Khan Company and Sadler’ s Wells, providing high-quality facilities for research, development and rehearsal. It is a testament to the quality of their venue that internationally renowned artists choose to create work here in Ashford.

“ It feels very meaningful to premiere Lullaby in Ashford, where the work has been created at JV H. O. M. E,” says Jasmin Vardimon MBE.“ This production explores the delicate balance between fragility and strength, where the body carries both vulnerability and resilience, and I’ m delighted that local audiences will be the first to experience it before it tours nationally and internationally.”

Set against the stark, clinical backdrop of a hospital environment, Lullaby explores the fragile dualities of human life: joy and despair, vulnerability and resilience, sickness and wellbeing. Through Jasmin Vardimon’ s signature blend of powerful physical theatre, wit and striking visual

storytelling, the production asks a timely and thought-provoking question: what does it truly mean to care?

As an organisation, their vision extends far beyond performance. They believe everyone should have access to the arts because creativity plays a vital role in our physical and mental wellbeing, helping people build confidence, resilience and connection. Over the past two years, they have provided more than 60 subsidised places across their professional training programmes, community classes and summer workshops, helping to remove financial barriers and ensure that dance remains accessible to all.

Lullaby is co-commissioned by Sadler’ s Wells, Ashford Borough Council and DanceEast, and offers audiences the opportunity to experience a major new work in the place where it was created. It is another example of how JV H. O. M. E. continues to nurture talent, support communities and place Ashford firmly on the national and international cultural map.

To book tickets for the upcoming performance of Lullaby or book a place onto one of their community classes, please visit the website.

jasminvardimon. com jasminvardimoncompany