We are delighted to share that we have appointed a senior member of the team to create more opportunities for independent dance artists in the North East.  

Andy Gardiner will take up the role of Senior Artist Support and Development Manager in August, a move which will help shape the future of dance in the region.  

Andy’s varied and successful career spans dance, theatre, opera, film and large-scale public events. He has built long-standing creative relationships with leading dance and theatre makers across the UK and has worked as a contemporary dancer, dramaturg, theatre performer, rehearsal director, engagement artist, mentor and guest lecturer. 

He served as Artistic Director of Society of Strays CIC, creating ambitious, socially engaged performances in collaboration with local communities, and as a performer with companies including Protein dance, Curious Seed, Zoielogic Dance Theatre, Dutch National Opera, Bgroup and Riccardo Buscarini.  

His dramaturgical credits include Rendezvous Dance – The Monocle and What Songs May Do, Zoielogic Dance Theatre, Pelican Theatre and Ballet de L’Opera de Tunis.  

His work has also included the opening ceremonies of the Rugby League World Cup and the Commonwealth Games as well as feature films such as 28 Years Later, Tom & Jerry and How to Train Your Dragon 2. 

He holds a BA in Theatre and Contemporary Dance and a Postgraduate Diploma from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.  

Speaking about his new role, he said:

There’s a great depth of knowledge, experience and diverse practice among the Dance City community and it feels like a privilege to step into this role and work alongside people who care so deeply about dance in the North East. 

I’m looking forward to building relationships and working alongside artists and partners to help develop new opportunities for all dance artists living and working in the North East. I’m passionate about stepping into a role where I can truly support, champion and care for artists and ensure they feel connected, valued and able to thrive.

Andy will use the resources and expertise of Dance City to support the development of independent dance artists in the region, collaborating with other dance organisations to ensure the most effective and efficient provision.  

Jim Hollington, Interim CEO at Dance City, said:

This new role marks a significant commitment from Dance City to strengthen artist development in the North East, working with partners to create clearer pathways, stronger networks and more opportunities for independent artists. We are committed to supporting artists at every stage of their careers and from all backgrounds, disciplines and dance practices, ensuring the region’s rich diversity of talent is recognised and nurtured.

The role follows the appointment of new Chief Executive and Creative Director, Jennifer Curry, who will be joining Dance City in September, bringing with her a strong record of leadership, advocacy and sector influence across national and regional cultural organisations. 

Jim added:

It’s an exciting time for Dance City with a strong leadership team focused on ensuring dance thrives in our region for decades to come.