Welcome to the Acosta Dance Centre, our cherished home within Woolwich Works, an inspiring cultural venue situated on the south bank of the River Thames in Woolwich Royal Arsenal, southeast London. Proudly serving the international dance community, the Acosta Dance Centre finds its place among the Works’ resident artistic companies, breathing life into the historic Building 40, once known as the Old Royal Military Academy.
Built in 1718–23 on the grounds of the former Tudor mansion named Tower Place, Building 40 now stands as a freestanding structure overlooking Artillery Square. With its richly ornamented brown-brick east façade, the building boasts a storied history. Once the home of the Royal Military Academy, it played a crucial role in training the Royal Artillery and the Royal Engineers until 1806. Subsequently, it served the Royal Laboratory and later became the Royal Arsenal Officers’ Mess, a testament to its enduring significance.
Today, it is our esteemed Acosta Dance Centre—an international reference for dance, uniting dance-creative practitioners, industry professionals, and the community with a shared passion for dance. Our multifaceted approach embraces dance education, workshops, and cultural events, fostering creativity and talent among young individuals, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Rooted in the Cuban cultural legacy, we stand as an embodiment of identity, continuity, respect, diversity, and creativity.
Welcome to the Acosta Dance Centre, where the echoes of history and the boundless energy of dance converge, inspiring generations to come. Together, we celebrate the transformative power of dance and invite you to join us in creating a vibrant, inclusive dance community that dances to the rhythm of unity and joy.
Welcome to the Acosta Dance Centre (ADC). I am delighted to welcome you into this vibrant world of dance, where creativity flourishes and dreams take flight.
As the founder of the ADC, I am humbled to see my vision come to life in the heart of Woolwich Royal Arsenal in southeast London.
With the steadfast support of the Acosta Dance Foundation and the dedication of our team, we stand as a hub of creativity, offering transformative experiences that nurture a strong sense of belonging and community. Our mission is clear: to become an international point of reference for dance, providing a supportive and inspiring space for dance-creative practitioners, industry professionals, and passionate dance enthusiasts alike.
— Carlos Acosta
Beyond the physical realm, we believe in the boundless power of dance to inspire and unite. Under the guiding light of my artistic vision, we strive to be the UK’s most reliable venue for dance creation and networking, dedicated to upholding the highest standards of artistic quality and innovation.
As we embark on this exhilarating journey together, we joyously embrace the rich Cuban cultural legacy, celebrating our shared identity, diversity, and boundless creativity.
It brings me immense pleasure, alongside our Managing Director, Javier Torres, to welcome you to the Acosta Dance Centre. Here, life’s rhythm finds its perfect expression, and the joy of dance knows no bounds. Join us, and together, let’s weave a tapestry of dance that will inspire generations to come.
