Dance Network Association Appoints New Chair of Trustees

Dr. Elsa Urmston

Dance Network Association (DNA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Elsa Urmston as Chair of Trustees, effective 25 April 2025. 

DNA provides inclusive, high-quality dance opportunities that support people of all ages to live more joyful and healthy lives through dance.  

Elsa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role having held the Vice Chair role for the Dance Network Association since 2023, and being a Director and critical friend of ‘The’ Dance Network Association between 2015 – 2023, as the company converted from a CIC to a charity. Elsa is a highly experienced dance educator and researcher, currently working in a freelance capacity at London Contemporary Dance School, the Royal Ballet and Opera and Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance. She has previously been Chair of the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science Dance Educators’ Committee, and an Advisor for One Dance UK’s Expert Panel for Children and Young People’s Dance. Her interests span community dance practice, education, dance science and creative health, and the impact of arts participation on people’s lives. 

Elsa says:  

“I am thrilled to be able to step into this leadership role, having supported the DNA team for the last few years as the organisation has grown under Gemma’s guidance. DNA’s work is a critical national voice for the significance of dance for creative health, with exceptional programmes of work in which participants’ experiences lie at the centre of all we do. Finding joy in and through dancing has been a core value in my own work, and I cannot wait to support these aspirations as the organisation develops.” 

Gemma says:  

"I am so delighted to start this next chapter for DNA as I step back from the role of Chair after the initial two years of the charity’s life. I am thrilled that Elsa has accepted the position. Her unwavering support, extensive experience, and passion for our mission will be instrumental as we continue to grow. As the founding member, it has been a personal challenge to trust and let go of the Chair role — but with Elsa leading the Board, I know that DNA is in safe and inspiring hands. The only way from here is up!" 

With Elsa stepping into the Chair role, DNA looks forward to an exciting new chapter, continuing to expand its reach and deepen its impact in communities through dance. 

Dance Network Association:  

Dance Network Association (DNA) is a dance charity that enables people to live more connected, joyful and aspirational lives through dance. 

Dancing with DNA provides opportunities for people to improve their confidence and physical well-being, nurtures creativity and independent thinking and enhances friendships through social interaction. 

DNA, founded in 2015 by CEO Gemma Wright, is a pioneering dance organisation based in Essex dedicated to enhancing health and wellbeing through dance. Inspired by Gemma’s experiences with elder isolation, DNA was born from a vision to bridge the gap between dance and healthcare, particularly for older adults, enhancing social connection and promoting physical and mental health. DNA’s person-centred approach is unique in the region, combining creative movement with professional health partnerships to support holistic wellness across all ages. 

​As a charity, DNA is the county’s leading "Dance for Health" organisation, reaching approximately 30,000 people annually. Its innovative programmes are supported by over £1 million raised since its inception, with funding from local authorities, private and public sector funding, trusts and foundations and donors enhancing DNA’s geographical reach. DNA has also earned national recognition, including One Dance UK awards nominations. Today, DNA is a community-focused leader, operating with a team of passionate, flexible professionals dedicated to making dance an accessible and impactful resource for wellbeing across Essex and our neighbouring counties.

Photo credit: Urmy