Anjali Dance Company names new director 

Anjali Dance Company announces the appointment of ALEX HENWOOD as Director. 

Anjali Dance Company works with and celebrates the creative and artistic potential of those with learning disabilities through dance. 

Henwood leaves her position as Head of Learning and Participation at dance company FABRIC, and will start her new role in January 2023. While at FABRIC she was Senior Producing Lead for Critical Mass – a £1m inclusive dance participation project – that was run in partnership with Birmingham 2022, Arts Connect and Dance Development Leaders Group. 

Anjali said Henwood has a passion for genuine inclusive practice and a wealth of relevant experience in senior leadership, talent development, inclusion and generating income. 

PAUL RUSS, CEO of FABRIC, said Henwood is hugely passionate and talented. 

“Her work leaves an indelible imprint on our new organisation and whilst we’re sad to see Alex leave our team, we are deeply proud that her leadership, knowledge and experience, particularly in extending inclusive dance practices, will ensure an exciting future of the extraordinary Anjali Dance Company,” Russ added.  

Henwood replaces Founder and Artistic Director of Anjali, NICOLE THOMSON, who is set to retire in December 2022 after 27 years at Anjali. 

During Thomson’s tenure, she performed commissioned work at the Royal Festival Hall and the Royal Opera House in 2000 and at the opening ceremony of the 2009 Special Olympics. She has also led international tours, performances and presentations with Buró Cultural in Mexico, with whom they had a seven-year partnership.

Henwood said she has long admired the work of Anjali and is honoured to be entrusted with building on Nicole’s inspiring tenure.