Choreographer Sir Richard Alston is to become a patron of Northampton’s Royal and Derngate theatre.
Founder of the Richard Alston Dance Company, Richard Alston is recognised as one of the most inspiring and influential choreographers in dance.
Over the past 50 years, he has played a major role in the world of contemporary dance, developing a distinct dance language and shaping the art form in this country.
He is deeply committed to nurturing the talents and interests of children and young people. This has led to his offering opportunities to many young people in Northamptonshire to get involved in dance projects supported by his company.
Alston said, “I’m truly delighted to be asked to become patron of Royal and Derngate. Northampton has been a part of my touring life for decades and over all those touring years the stage of the Derngate has always remained one of my favourites on which to present my dances.”
Jo Gordon, chief executive at Royal and Derngate, said, “we’re delighted that we’re going to be able to continue our association with Richard Alston in the future.
“Richard has always been incredibly generous with his time, building activities around his company’s visits to Royal and Derngate that can engage the whole community. He’s developed really strong relationships in the county across the years and his continued support of the venue, through becoming our patron, will be greatly valued.”
Richard Alston Dance Company will perform in Northampton for the last time on Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 October as part of its final tour before the company closes in April 2020.
The programme will include a group of dancers aged 14 to 18 from across Northamptonshire performing a new piece of work developed over a week-long residency during the summer.