City's taking steps to be dance capital

City chiefs hope to create a full-time professional dance company and include a "Made in Edinburgh" showcase of local dance talent at the Fringe.

Schools will also be encouraged to get pupils dancing, with more boys encouraged to take up the activity and dance included as a regular part of PE classes.

A year-round programme of dance shows in various venues would also be established, and dance made part of sport and health policies.

The council's Dance Strategy aims to turn the city into the leading Scottish location for dance innovation and professionals.

A recent survey found that Edinburgh is well-placed to earn the title "dance capital" because of its flourishing dance scene.

However, officials are keen to get more people involved after a survey revealed that three-quarters of people in the city were unlikely to take part in dancing.

Herbert Coutts, the council's director of culture and leisure, said: "The dance strategy provides a positive picture of Edinburgh's dance provision and a bright future recommending appropriate improvements which, when delivered, will refine and retain Edinburgh's reputation as a leader in the UK landscape.

"The research for the strategy revealed a flourishing dance scene in Edinburgh. The level of activity places the city amongst the most important in the UK for dance."

Proposals also include setting up a 50,000 fund for dance projects and shows produced by local groups.

Moves will be made for the city to play host to a British dance trade fair, which would include performances and workshops.

It is also hoped that a city-wide brochure of dance events can be produced.

Traditionally seen as a female activity, dance would be promoted to boys through events such as a particular artist being brought to the city who might appeal to youths.

Links between dance teachers and schools are also set to be encouraged.

The strategy is based on a consultation in which more than 80 dance organisations and teachers were asked about Edinburgh's dance scene.

It revealed that there are around 650 classes each week across the city, in styles ranging from ballet and tap to jazz and breakdance.

One of Edinburgh's biggest dancing schools, Dance Base, attracts 2500 people to more than 90 types of classes each week.

Jennie Gardner, the school's marketing manager, said that anything to promote dancing is to be welcomed.

The plans were today set to be approved by councillors.