Daisy Sanders has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of Stompin, one of Australia’s leading youth dance companies. Based in Launceston, Tasmania, Stompin has been a trailblazer in youth dance for over 30 years, empowering young artists through innovative, site-specific performances and community-focused programs. Sanders, a multidisciplinary creator, performer, and teacher, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role, promising to uphold and expand Stompin’s legacy of creativity, connection, and care.
Currently based in Boorloo (Perth), Sanders has over a decade of experience working across Australia and internationally. Her practice is deeply rooted in fostering joy, connection, and creative vibrancy—values that align seamlessly with Stompin’s mission. Sanders’ appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the company as it continues to champion youth engagement and artistic excellence.
In a statement, Sanders expressed her enthusiasm for the role, saying, “I was drawn to undertake the leadership of Stompin because its legacy and importance is so apparent. I feel humbled to step in and direct a company that many people hold dear, and I will be privileged to first and foremost continue its strong culture of care and community.”
Sanders also highlighted her commitment to creating spaces that are joyful, connected, and creatively vibrant. “A huge part of my artistic practice to date has been intentionally cultivating spaces that are joyful, connected, honest, and thus creatively vibrant,” she said. “I wholeheartedly believe that the way we gather together and the quality of our relationships are the essential foundation for dance.”
In addition to her focus on community and connection, Sanders brings a unique artistic approach to Stompin. She describes her choreographic practice as somatic, emphasizing health, access, and multidisciplinary collaboration. “Transformative community engagement is not separate from the creation of high-quality artwork,” she noted. “Artists hold a very powerful role in these times—to re-imagine what’s possible and generously contribute to social cohesion and positive change.”
Sanders also expressed her eagerness to work with Stompin’s young artists, known as Stompers, and their families. “The future lies in the hearts of young artists,” she said. “I can’t wait to meet the Stompers and discover what worlds we can imagine and build together.”
Sanders will begin her role remotely in February before relocating to Lutruwita/Tasmania in mid-March. Her arrival will mark the start of a new era for Stompin, as she works to connect with the community, create new work, and build on the company’s bold legacy.
Since its inception in 1992, Stompin has been a vital force in Australian youth dance, creating 45 large-scale, site-specific performances involving over 7,000 young people and performing to audiences of more than 40,000. The company has presented work in iconic locations such as wetlands, conservatories, and historic theatres, as well as at acclaimed festivals like Ten Days on the Island, Junction Arts Festival, and MONA FOMA.
Stompin’s commitment to exploring Australian youth culture in a regional context, alongside its welcoming and non-competitive environment, has made it a beacon for young dancers and makers. The company’s emphasis on creative and healthy lifestyles, combined with its empowering approach to artistic development, ensures that young people are given a platform to believe in the strength of their own artistic voice.
With her passion for community, creativity, and youth engagement, Sanders is poised to lead the company into an exciting future, continuing its mission to inspire and empower the next generation of dance artists.