DirtyFeet has announced Kate Merrick and Alex Lusty as the recipients of its 2025 Secondment Program. The program, designed to support early career independent dance artists, attracted a highly competitive field of applicants.
The 12-month secondment provides mentorship, industry connections, and practical experience. Kate and Alex will be guided by Sarah-Vyne Vassallo and Anthea Doropoulos, and will also receive one-on-one mentorship from two NSW choreographers (to be announced). Their program has commenced with participation in Glory Tuohy-Daniell’s Choreographic Lab.
Kate Merrick is a 2022 graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Her experience includes performing Pina Bausch’s Tannhauser Bacchanal and working with Dance Makers Collective, Shaun Parker & Company, and Twisted Element. She expressed her enthusiasm for the program, stating, "I am excited to connect and learn from other artists through this secondment with DirtyFeet."
Alex Lusty, a 2024 graduate of Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year, has worked with choreographers such as Miranda Wheen, Frances Rings, and James Batchelor. Her training also includes participation in FORM Dance Projects IDEAS Festival. Alex highlighted her interest in the program, saying, "Being a secondee with DirtyFeet is an invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in diverse experiences, challenge my creativity, and deepen my understanding of choreographic processes."
DirtyFeet also acknowledged the contributions of Maddison Fraser and Tom Evans, the inaugural 2024 Secondees, for their work in establishing the program's foundation. The organisation looks forward to supporting Kate and Alex throughout their secondment year.