A dance group in Lichfield has received a £1,000 donation as part of our Community Champions initiative.

Elite Academy Fundraising is a not-for-profit group set up to support dancers from Elite Academy of Performing Arts in Lichfield. The team offers financial support to help dancers attend local, regional, national, and international dance competitions and events as well as help fund dance equipment, intensives and trips to the theatre. This ensures that every child can enjoy the same experiences, regardless of background.

Established in 1999 by a former professional ballet dancer, Elite Academy has seen its graduates go on to join professional dance companies, perform in the West End, in Las Vegas and on world cruises. Our funding has supported dancers attending both the Dance World Cup in Prague and Global Dance Open in Apeldoorn.

The cheque presentation was attended by Alastair Stewart, Land and Planning Manager at Persimmon Homes West Midlands and Cllr Alex Farrell, Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Plan at Lichfield District Council.

Donna Wilcox, Principal at Elite Academy of Performing Arts, said: “We truly appreciate the support of Persimmon as it has enabled our dancers to attend global competitions that not only provides them with opportunities to compete, but also meet other dancers, experience different cultures and raise the profile of the city.

“This is the first time we have competed at the Global Dance Open and we would not be able to provide our dancers with opportunities such as this without the support of local businesses. We are extremely grateful to be a recipient of the Community Champions donation, as it makes a huge difference to the support we can provide to our dancers.”

Cllr Alex Farrell, Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Plan at Lichfield District Council said: "It was so lovely to meet members of Elite Academy and see the positive difference this funding will make. I'd like to wish them all the best for the future and I thank Persimmon for their kind donation."

Alastair Stewart, Land and Planning Manager at Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “What we do is about much more than just building homes, it’s about leaving a lasting positive legacy in the communities that we build in and doing this in the ways that have the most positive impact.

“It’s a delight to be able to offer this donation to Elite Academy.”