Hofesh Shechter

Hofesh Shechter is an Israeli-born choreographer, dancer, and composer who has made a significant impact on the contemporary dance world. He is known for his unique style that blends contemporary dance with elements of traditional Israeli folk dance, as well as his original music compositions that often accompany his performances.

Shechter was born in Jerusalem in 1975 and began his dance training at a young age. He later moved to Tel Aviv to study at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, where he developed his skills as a dancer and musician. After graduating, he joined the Batsheva Dance Company, one of Israel's most renowned dance companies, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a principal dancer.

In 2003, Shechter moved to London to pursue his career as a choreographer and formed his own dance company, the Hofesh Shechter Company. He quickly gained recognition for his unique style and was commissioned to create works for some of the world's most prestigious dance companies, including the Royal Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Shechter's choreography is known for its raw energy, intense physicality, and use of repetition. His works often explore themes of violence, power, and humanity's darker impulses. Some of his most notable works include "Uprising," which features a group of dancers moving in unison to a pulsing beat, and "Political Mother," a large-scale work that incorporates live music and explores themes of political oppression.

In addition to his work as a choreographer, Shechter is also an accomplished composer. He often creates original music to accompany his dance works, and his music has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Some of his most notable music compositions include the score for the film "Disobedience" and the music for the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics.

Shechter's work has earned him numerous awards and accolades. In 2008, he was named a "Rising Star" by The Observer, and in 2009, he was awarded the Critics' Circle National Dance Award for Best Choreography. He has also been awarded the Olivier Award for Best New Dance Production twice, for "Political Mother" in 2010 and "Sun" in 2019.

Most recently, Shechter premiered his latest work, "Double Murder," at the Brighton Festival in May 2021. The piece explores themes of violence and power and features a cast of eight dancers performing to a live score composed by Shechter. The work received critical acclaim, with The Guardian calling it "a thrilling, visceral experience."

Hofesh Shechter's unique style and innovative approach to dance have made him one of the most sought-after choreographers working today. His work continues to push the boundaries of contemporary dance and inspire audiences around the world.