Choreographer Conversations

Michael Keegan-Dolan and Alistair Spalding in an interview-style set up, laughing with each other

What moves the world’s most influential choreographers working in dance today?

In this series of Choreographer Conversations, Sadler’s Wells digs deep to unravel the inspirations and motivations that drive these exceptional artists. Through candid discussions filmed in front of a live audience, this series presents some of the creative forces shaping the dance landscape, offering audiences an intimate glimpse into the minds of some of the world’s choreographic visionaries.

Commissioned by Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage.

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Michael Keegan-Dolan

In this episode, Sir Alistair Spalding speaks to choreographer and Artistic Director of Teaċ Daṁsa Michael Keegan-Dolan.

This conversation reflects on Michael’s illustrious career, his upbringing, and the rich collaborations that transform his practice. Rooted in a profound connection to Ireland’s traditions, language and music, Michael speaks about the unique process of creating work in the picturesque landscape of West Kerry.

Credits

Featuring – Michael Keegan-Dolan, Sir Alistair Spalding
Producer, Digital Stage & Studio – Ciara Lynch
DOP – Sarah Vaughan-Jones
Editor – Ben Williams
Camera Operator – Joël Cottrell
Camera Operator – David Kaplowitz
Programming Manager – Lucy Al-Zoghbi
Programming Coordinator – Fidelma Hanrahan
Programming Trainee – Georgia Birchall
Head of Programme Management – Richard Cross
Digital & Content Coordinator – Angharad Mainwaring
Director of Digital Stage – Bia Oliviera
Senior Content Manager – Lorraine Camm
Technical Director – Oli Clark
Head Technician (Lilian Baylis Studio) – Jonny Downs
Producer for Teaċ Daṁsa – Dawn Prentice
Captioner – Michael Peers
Music – Continent by ANBR

Image description: A black and white headshot Michael Keegan-Dolan, a male choreographer with white skin, very short hair and a brown and grey beard. Michael is looking straight at the camera with a neutral expression.

Michael Keegan-Dolan by Richard Gilligan

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Akram Khan

Sir Alistair Spalding talks to the renowned choreographer Akram Khan, acclaimed for his dance language rooted in ancient Indian dance form, kathak.

They discuss his journey into dance, the importance of collaboration, Akram’s philosophy on storytelling and balancing work with parenthood.

Credits

Featuring – Akram Khan, Sir Alistair Spalding
Producer, Digital Stage – Rosie Mackie
DOP – Sarah Vaughan-Jones
Editor – Ben Williams
Camera Operator – Joël Cottrell
Camera Operator – James Hedgecock
Programming Coordinator – Nancy Turner
Head of Programme Management – Richard Cross
Technical Director – Oli Clark
Marketing & Communications Manager (Akram Khan Company) – Chelsea Robinson
Marketing & Communications Coordinator (Akram Khan Company) – Sabrina Pui Yee Chin
Music – Continent by ANBR

Image description: Akram Khan, a male choreographer with brown skin, closely shaved hair and a dark brown and grey beard, is sitting on outdoor concrete steps. He is wearing a patterned zip jumper with blue, red, and black colours on it. Akram is looking straight at the camera with a neutral expression.

Image by Camilla Greenwell.

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