New Artistic Director announced for Phoenix Dance Theatre

Phoenix Dance Theatre has named MARCUS JARRELL WILLIS Artistic Director.

Willis will take up his position at the Leeds-based contemporary dance company next month.

Originally from Houston, Texas, Willis trained as a dancer at The Ailey School in New York before joining Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. 

In 2018, he was selected for a Leverhulme Choreography Fellowship at Rambert in London and two years later was appointed as Resident Choreographer for Ballet Cymru in Newport, Wales. 

Willis said he was “thrilled and honoured” by his new appointment. He said, “Phoenix holds such an important place in the contemporary dance landscape of the UK, and its commitment to remaining loyal to its roots and fostering opportunity is something I am passionate about.”

DELIA BARKER, Chair of the Board of Phoenix Dance Theatre, added, “This is an exciting time for Phoenix as we are at the beginning of a new chapter for the company. 

“Marcus’s depth of experience and his commitment to involving our many diverse communities, especially young people, match our ambition to create pathways for the development of artistic talent, particularly those from Black and other global majority communities.

“I am truly excited about what Marcus will bring to Phoenix, but also the role he will play in aiding Phoenix Dance Theatre to redefine leadership paths and development opportunities in the dance industry.”