Holding On is a live and digital performance programme co-created and performed by people with lived experience of cancer, grief, loss and bereavement. Described by audiences as “opening up difficult conversations in a softer way”, the choreography emerges directly from their stories, blending crafted movement, improvisation scores, spoken text and relational tasks to create a work that is both artistically rigorous and emotionally resonant
Booking Options
Holding On offers a flexible programme made up of several strands which can be booked individually, though we recommend combining them to create a bespoke engagement package. The programme includes two co‑devised short films, a recording of the live performance and the live work itself – which can be presented as the full piece or adapted into shorter experiences such as solos, duets or trios.
Booking options consists of:
- Live performance
- Screening of the live performance film
- Pop-up solos, duos and trios
- Screenings of two short films
- Q&A with the creators, devisors and performers
- Facilitated discussions
- Creative workshops
- Rachael Lines, FRONTLINEdance Artistic Director and CEO, can present the work or appear as a guest speaker, tailoring it to you. For example, presenting why/how it was made and/or our approaches to working around sensitive subjects.
- A residency recreating the show with your own cast (community, intergenerational and professional artists)
The piece supports participants and audiences to encounter creation and performance shaped by lived experience within a safe, held and supportive space.
We’ve designed Holding On so it can tour easily and be adapted to each venue. This means we can perform in a wide range of indoor settings, though the work is not suitable for outdoor environments.
Holding On 1 Screen Dance Trailer
Holding On 2 Screen Dance Trailer
Bookings Open:
- Live Shows: Available bookings from September 2026 – December 2028
- Residency: Limited bookings available from October 2026 – December 2028
- Short films Holding on (1): Available from August 2026 – December 2028
- Holding On (2) Screendance: Available bookings from August 2026 – December 2028
- Workshops: Available bookings from September 2026 – December 2028
- Pop Up Solos and Duets: Available bookings from September 2026 – December 2028
Accessibility
FRONTLINEdance is committed to accessible practice for d/DEAF, disabled and neurodivergent people. Our offer includes BSL interpretation, relaxed performances, touch tours, opportunities to meet the performers in advance, and an easy-read visual story. We work with each venue to ensure accessible practice is embedded at every stage – pre‑visit, delivery, communication, marketing and evaluation. We can provide access training to support your team and build confidence in inclusive practice. In most cases, this training can be offered free of charge when booking Holding On.
Book a Conversation with Us
We’d be very happy to discuss programming options or explore how Holding On could sit within your programme. To set up an informal conversation or to book, please email Melanie at: touring@frontlinedance.co.uk For further information: Tour Pack
