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MACtivate is a dynamic incubator for change, using creativity and action-based research to address some of Northern Ireland’s most pressing social issues, including migration, housing, poverty, racism, and LGBTQ+ discrimination.
Bridges Through Dance – Uniting Communities Through Movement
Led by Mexican artist Mar Decena
Bridges Through Dance is an inspiring project that connects communities through movement. Mar Decena, a renowned expert in Middle Eastern dance, will train professional dancers in Bellydance, Saidi, and Dabke, exploring fluid movement chains, improvisation, and rhythm. Accompanied by live darbuka music, dancers will deepen their connection to authentic rhythms.
Mar is fostering meaningful connections between women in the asylum system, refugee women, and local communities. These interactive workshops introduce Middle Eastern dance in a social and inclusive format, where participants not only learn movement but also engage in discussions on cultural expression and connection. Through guided reflection and group interaction, the project highlights how movement transcends language and builds bridges between people.
Originally from Mexico—one of the world’s hubs for Middle Eastern dance—Mar brings over 20 years of experience and a deep passion for promoting Arabic culture through dance and music. She has trained extensively with Egyptian masters and internationally renowned instructors, refining her skills in Bellydance, Saidi, and Dabke.
Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland's National Lottery Minority Ethnic.
To celebrate Belfast Pride 2025, we will curate an exhibition in our community studio, collecting and exhibiting memorabilia and artifacts representing Belfast Pride from its inception in 1991. We have commissioned Queer artist and curator Thomas Wells to realise this project.
The exhibition will be open in our common room from 18th – 27th July.
We’re also hosting Get Ready for Pride, a fun-filled event for children and families on the morning of the Belfast Pride Parade, taking place on Saturday, 26th July 2025.
This project is supported by Belfast Pride.
New Theatre: Young Voices on Stage
In partnership with leading charity Extern, we are collaborating with 20 young people from Belfast, Drogheda, and Dublin to develop an original theatre production with renowned playwright Tony Macauley. This powerful piece will explore the lives, experiences, and perspectives of these young people.
The production will take centre stage at The MAC (Upstairs Theatre) on 28th & 29th November 2025.
This project is proudly funded by Creative Ireland.
