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Hofesh Shechter: An Innovator in Dance
Industry News, Winners
Hofesh Shechter is known for his powerful, rhythmic movement style and his talent for composing evocative music. He creates performances that are both emotionally gripping and visually striking. His acclaimed works, such as Political Mother and Grand Finale, were created for his own company, but he has also choreographed for world-renowned dance institutions, including the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Nederlands Dans Theater 1, the Paris Opera Ballet, and the Royal Ballet in London. Beyond dance, Shechter has made significant contributions to theater, opera, and television and holds the position of Associate Artist at Sadler’s Wells. In recognition of his impact on dance, he was awarded an honorary OBE in 2018, the same year his dance film Hofesh Shechter’s “Clowns” premiered on the BBC to critical praise. His upcoming work continues his tradition of bold, visceral choreography, driven by deep musicality and a fascination with human nature.
A New Masterpiece for the Paris Opera Ballet
Shechter’s latest creation, “Red Carpet” is a full-length work designed especially for the Paris Opera Ballet, marking the first time he has choreographed an entire evening for a company other than his own. Set in a shimmering world of glamour and illusion, the piece features thirteen dancers moving with raw intensity to live music performed by musicians in tuxedos. The stage, framed by red curtains and adorned with a jewel-like centerpiece, evokes the opulence of the Palais Garnier and the nostalgic allure of cabaret. Shechter’s signature grounded, rhythmic movement style brings an electrifying energy to this theatrical setting. Drawing from his diverse background, his upbringing in Jerusalem, time in Paris, and artistic life in London, he blends music, striking imagery, and cinematic storytelling to craft a performance that is both visually stunning and deeply moving. This new work reaffirms Shechter’s reputation as a choreographer who pushes boundaries while captivating audiences worldwide.
Hofesh Shechter Company & FEDORA
The Hofesh Shechter Company has a strong relationship with the FEDORA Platform, most notably as the winner of the prestigious FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Dance Prize in 2020 for their groundbreaking project LIGHT: Bach Dances. Co-produced with the Royal Danish Theatre, the piece premiered on 8 May 2021 at the Royal Danish Theatre in Copenhagen, showcasing Shechter’s bold artistic vision and cementing his company’s reputation as a leader in contemporary dance. The jury, chaired by Nicolas Payne, comprising experts such as Eleonora Abbagnato, Sharon Eyal, Ted Brandsen, Laurent Hilaire, Nicolas Le Riche, Johannes Öhman, Madeleine Onne, and Helen Shute; recognized the work’s exceptional creativity and impact. Beyond this achievement, the Hofesh Shechter Company continues to push boundaries, earning nominations for Best New Dance Production (Theatre of Dreams at Sadler’s Wells) and Best Theatre Choreographer (for Oedipus), while Shechter himself gained greater renown into film with “En corps” (directed by Cédric Klapisch), which received 10 César nominations. The support and recognition of the FEDORA - VAN CLEEF & ARPELS Prize for Dance contributed to Shechter’s work reaching new heights, reinforcing his role as a transformative force in dance.
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LIGHT: Bach dances
Bach’s cantatas, Hofesh Shechter’s profoundly affecting choreography and audio testimony of people facing death come together in a moving, thought-provoking and life-affirming dance, music and theatre piece. Only by dancing in the abyss can we celebrate the LIGHT.
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