A significant step towards fostering closer ties within the Australasian dance community has been announced with the launch of a new Trans-Tasman partnership. Wellesley Studios in Auckland and Dancehouse in Melbourne have joined forces to create a triennial exchange program, designed to support the mobility and development of independent dance artists between Aotearoa/New Zealand and Australia from 2025 to 2027.
Funded by Creative New Zealand, Wellesley Studios, and Dancehouse, this initiative will provide crucial opportunities for artists to expand their practice and build international connections. Each year, the partnership will facilitate two-week residencies, with each organisation hosting an artist from the other country. These residencies will include stipends, travel and accommodation support, and mentorship, offering a valuable platform for artistic growth.
Katrina Todd, Founder and Director of Wellesley Studios, expressed her enthusiasm for the expansion of their existing residency program, stating, "We are thrilled to now be able to expand our residency programme... creating new connections, experiences, inspiration and opportunities for NZ dance artists." She also highlighted the benefit to the local dance community in Auckland, which will have the chance to engage with diverse methodologies and practices, adding, "We are also delighted to welcome Australian artists each year, developing artist and audience networks and for the local dance community to benefit from different methodologies and practices in our spaces."
Echoing this sentiment, Dancehouse CEO/Artistic Director Josh Wright acknowledged the scarcity of formal exchange opportunities with New Zealand, despite the close cultural and social ties between the two nations. He described the partnership as "a brilliantly elegant relationship" that connects two vital dance hubs, offering "flexibility and opportunity" for artists. Wright further explained, "Collectively we know we can host generously and with genuine interest and reciprocity for the love and benefit of our dance artists and communities."
Further strengthening the trans-Tasman connection, Performance Space in Sydney has also demonstrated its commitment to New Zealand artists. Having recently presented works by Wellesley Studios alumni Jessie McCall and Oli Mathiesen at their Liveworks Festival, Performance Space has cemented its role in connecting New Zealand talent with Australian audiences and international networks. Artistic Director Kate Britton emphasised the organisation's long-standing dedication to showcasing innovative performance from across the Asia Pacific, and stated that this new program will allow them to "connect more deeply with Aotearoa’s rich and dynamic independent dance scene." She added, "Programmes such as this are invaluable to our sector, connecting artists, organisations and audiences who value ground breaking and future focused performance and ensuring independent artists are able to thrive."
Shona McCullagh, Creative Producer of Wellesley Studios Residencies, who initiated the exchange project, will oversee the new international and research residencies. She highlighted the proven impact of residencies on artistic practice and international opportunities, and expressed her excitement for the increased flow of ideas and collaborations across the Tasman, saying, "The power of residencies to influence practice and international opportunity has been repeatedly proven and I’m delighted with both the strength of our partners and the support from CNZ to deliver this programme."
This collaborative effort represents a significant investment in the future of independent dance, creating vital pathways for artistic exchange and development. Expressions of interest for both New Zealand and Australian dance artists will open on Monday, February 10th and close on Sunday, March 9th, 2025. This initiative promises to be a catalyst for artistic growth and collaboration, enriching the dance landscape on both sides of the Tasman.