DU Dance (NI) began as Dance United Northern Ireland in April 2007 led by respected dance practitioners Mags Byrne as Artistic Director and Royston Maldoom as Consultant Director.
Both as individuals, and in collaboration, they have shared their conviction in the power and joy of contemporary dance with people in communities across Northern Ireland and internationally. As founding artistic director, Mags and DU Dance (NI) developed an approach that used dance as a means of bringing about positive individual and community transformation. The company supported people to build self-esteem, foster integration, and develop attitudes of tolerance and respect.
2026 marked a significant moment in the company’s journey following the stepping down of Mags to focus on research, project delivery and travel.
DU Dance now moves forward under the artistic direction of Jack Philp. Building on the legacy of the organisation, the company will continue to place dance at the heart of communities across Northern Ireland and beyond. Working with the team, fellow artists, participants and partners our next chapter will develop ambitious, inclusive programmes that deepen participation, nurture leadership, and strengthen connections to the professional dance landscape.
This ongoing work continues to position dance as a vital and accessible part of cultural life, both locally and beyond.
Dance can be experienced through a diversity of cultures and forms, yet is universal.
It is a potent tool for the development of both the individual and the community.
DU Dance has formulated its approach into four separate but interconnected programmes of work using these generic titles.