New Adventures |

The award has been created by colleagues and friends in celebration of Matthew Bourne’s 50th birthday last year, and to also honour both the work and achievements of Matthew and his company New Adventures within dance and musical theatre.

Within 48 hours of sending out an email regarding the establishment of this award to colleagues, friends and former New Adventures artists, almost £15,000 was pledged by over 120 people. This gift represents the gratitude as artists, audience members, friends and fans of Matthew Bourne, and gives the next generation of choreographers the opportunity to work with Matthew and experience the unique New Adventures success story.

It is hoped that the award will be presented bi-annually so that the legacy that Matthew has created in the theatre will continue to inspire new choreographers and ultimately the creation of vibrant and exciting dance and theatre.

The recipient of this award will be granted the money to work on their choreographic skills over a period of 12 months. Throughout the year, the recipient will have the chance to be mentored by Matthew and other New Adventures associate artists to research and develop a programme of work with a company of New Adventures dancers. In addition, they will receive advice and support from the management and administrative staff at New Adventures and Re:Bourne, including creating and managing budgets, marketing and general management. A showcase performance of the created programme of work will be the culmination of the award, to which leading industry figures will be invited.

Aspiring choreographers are invited to apply from Sunday 3 April 2011. THERE IS NO AGE LIMIT AND ALL STYLES OF DANCE WILL BE CONSIDERED.

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The deadline for this years applications has now closed.

A shortlist of applications will be announced on 8th June 2011. The assessment panel will be headed by Matthew Bourne.