Ali Wright
ZooNation has announced that from 2025 the dance organisation’s youth company - ZYC - will be led jointly by founder and Artistic Director KATE PRINCE and Associate Artistic Director DANNIELLE LECOINTE.
Previously, ZYC's artistic leadership changed with each new cohort of students.
Prince, who founded the company in 2002, is a noted choreographer, director and writer. She is an Associate Artist at the Old Vic and at Sadler’s Wells where ZooNation is a resident company.
Lecointe, known professionally as Rhimes, is a choreographer, director and dancer. She has worked with Prince on several productions including Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Some Like It Hip Hop and Sylvia.
Prince said: “It’s a full circle moment for me as the company’s founder… I can’t wait to get back in the studio where it all began. The next generation need access to the arts and genuine opportunities like ZYC more than ever.
“ZYC offers not only professional opportunities but also a place to train, be inspired and feel part of something special.
“It feels like the right time to be taking the baton again alongside the brilliant Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe. I am excited to work together, to meet new talent, but also hope to see many familiar faces during auditions and workshops.”
Rhimes added: “I've worked with ZYC intensively over the years and am honoured to carry on the legacy of outstanding talent we have raised up in the industry.
“To also do this with Kate, for the first time, whom I've worked with for 18 years, is incredibly exciting and feels like a fresh wave for the company.”