Actor, dancer and choreographer Lindsay Kemp has become Newcastle-based dance company Fertile Ground’s patron, joining its artistic patron Wayne Sleep.
Kemp formed his own dance company in the 1960s and his “exotic blend of danger and innocence” (The Independent) was channeled into all of the company’s work. In 1967, he worked on his first project with David Bowie, Pierrot in Turquoise, later going on to mastermind the famous Ziggy Stardust concerts in 1972.
Kemp also worked with the young Kate Bush, teaching both her and Bowie how to dance in his own unique and emotion-led way.
He worked with Ballet Rambert (now Rambert Dance Company) alongside Fertile Ground’s director Dora Frankel.
Accepting the invitation to become patron, Kemp said, “the Fertile Ground Company is a very special one with Dora Frankel's brilliant direction and dancers who have passion and dedication.
“The choreographies are original, innovative and entertaining. I am especially pleased to see how the company reaches out to young people and people everywhere, encouraging all to see and to dance.”
Dora Frankel commented, “I’m touched and happy that Lindsay accepted my invitation when we met at The Customs House Fellowship Award dinner. I have admired him deeply ever since working with him whilst in Ballet Rambert.”
Kemp was brought up in South Shields and in September last year was given an Honorary Fellowship of the Customs House Academy where he met up with Dora Frankel for the first time for many years.
Fertile Ground is the North East's first professional graduate dance company, providing a first professional opportunity for the best young dancers from the region.