THE future of 2FaCeD DaNcE Company, Herefordshire’s only professional dance company, is in serious doubt following the refusal of its application for Arts Council funding.

On the eve of another sell-out series of shows at The Courtyard, founder Tamsin Fizgerald learned that the application, despite being described by the Arts Council as ‘exceptional’, had failed to secure the £25,000 it needed to fund its production at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a forthcoming UK tour.

“”Edinburgh is in doubt, the whole future of the company is in doubt,” says Tamsin, who last year won a prestigious Rayne Choreographer’s Fellowship for her work. “Without this money, the company can’t progress any further. Basically, everything would have to come to an end.

“It’s a devastating blow. None of us want the company to end, but there is only so long you can sustain it at a level where you are getting only a basic income.”

Tamsin says that the only realistic hope for 2FaCeD and its immediate plans for Edinburgh and the UK tour is for the company to attract additional sponsorship. The bill for flights to Edinburgh is being paid for by Hereford-based Frank’s Luxury Biscuits.

Tamsin was thrilled to be recognised for her work in urban dance when she received her award last year.

“It doesn’t get taken as seriously as other dance – it’s not seen as being as artistic. I am trying to change that,” she said.

Her enthusiasm, drive and talent ensured that the company enjoyed its most successful year yet.

“The tour is planned, venues booked and the education work to accompany it arranged,” says Tamsin. “The demand is there, but the money isn’t. It’s very upsetting for everyone involved with the company.”

“2FaCeD’s application met all the criteria,” said Rachel Hartley of Arts Council West Midlands. “But we had more applications than we could fund and had to make the difficult decision about which to approve.”

To talk to Tamsin about possible sponsorship, call her on 07881 785603.