The Ausdance Peggy van Praagh Choreographic Fellowship is awarded annually to a mid-career choreographer (over 35yrs) with a minimum of 10 years professional choreographing experience. Stephanie Lake was the first recipient and was thrilled to receive a cheque for $10,000 at the 2012 Australian Dance Awards.
Here is what Stephanie has been doing during her fellowship activities:
When I received the Dame Peggy Van Praagh Choreographic Fellowship last year, I was at somewhat of a crossroads and—at least subconsciously—was looking for confirmation that I was travelling the right road. So being awarded this fellowship was not only very concrete, real support but was also a valuable affirmation.
The money from this fellowship has contributed to the production of two of my independently produced works in 2013. The first was DUAL that premiered in Dance Massive in March. We received great reviews and the work will tour to Dublin Dance Festival in May as well as other European cities in 2014.
A Small Prometheus Dancers: Alana Everett, Lee Serle, Rennie McDougall, Lily Paskas & Leif Helland. Photo: Robin FoxThe second work, A Small Prometheus has been programmed in the Melbourne International Arts Festival and will be performed at Arts House in October. The PvP Fellowship has contributed to both works and I’m so happy that they will both come to fruition this year.
During 2013 I will also premiere a new work for Chunky Move and begin developing work for Sydney Dance Company as well as continuing in my role as Resident Director of Lucy Guerin Inc.
This period of creation has been incredibly satisfying, invigorating and fruitful and I am very proud to have been the first recipient of this choreographic fellowship.
Alisdair Macindoe & Sara Black in DUAL .Photos: Byron Perry