Phoenix Fridays is an artist development programme, which aims to support Leeds-based freelance dance artists working on ongoing projects, particularly those looking to increase their visibility across the sector. 

Recognising the needs of freelance artists regarding studio time, space, exposure, and expanding networks, Phoenix Fridays was launched to offer two local artists access to in-kind studio space, and time to research and create with our company dancers across a three-month period.  

Selected artists are supported with their creative development by receiving feedback and guidance from Phoenix Dance Theatre’s Artistic Director and Head of Artistic Management. During the programme, artists will have the opportunity to share their work at an informal sharing event hosted at Phoenix HQ  

This new initiative is being launched with support from Arts Council England in response to the challenges freelance artists face, as they endeavour to gain support from and increase production opportunities with arts and funding organisations at large.  

Previous Phoenix Fridays artists include:

• Akeim Toussaint Buck
• John William-Watson 
• Iolanda Portogallo 
• Mayowa Ogunnaike 
• Dorna Ashory & Teige Bisnought