DanceEast receives £50k grant for new commissions

DanceEast has been awarded £50,159 from the Jerwood Foundation towards its commissioning programme over an 18-month period.

The funding will support the creation of two new pieces at the Jerwood DanceHouse by award-winning dancers Jess and Morgs and Dickson Mbi, along with access to studios and wraparound support.

Jess and Morgs say their new work will explore the digital self through AI and greenscreen technology.

DanceEast is also commissioning Mbi to make a follow-up to his first full-length piece, Enowate, which won the 2023 Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance.

“In a difficult climate where it is hard for organisations and artists to invest in new work creation, Jerwood Foundation’s funding of two new commissions, and the associated costs, allows us to ensure outstanding new dance performances are created for new and existing audiences in the UK,” said Brendan Keaney, DanceEast Artistic Director and Chief Executive.