The Mill Adelaide, in association with the Klein Family Foundation, Force Majeure and the Helpmann Academy, presented the 2014 Choreographic Futures Dance Residency.
In 2014, the first residency program saw one of Australia’s leading choreographers, Kate Champion of Force Majeure, mentor local choreographer Alicia Harvie to develop her new work The Closet Activist. This work has since had a second development with plans for performance in the works, including a performance at the Tour Down Under festivities. “What more could an emerging dance artist ask for than four weeks creating in an inner-city dance studio, immersed in a collaborative arts hub and mentorship with an internationally renowned choreographer?” Alica says. “The Choreographic Futures Dance Residency helped me to introduce myself as an artist and my emerging arts practice to the professional arts industry with integrity and excellence.”
“This residency will provide Alicia Harvie, a South Australian choreographer with a tremendous opportunity to further develop their skills and experience and to gain exposure in the industry. During the 4-week residency, the selected artist or artists will have the creative freedom to play, experiment and develop new ideas,” explains the Mill’s co-founder Erin Fowler. “Recent graduates need the breathing space to try out their ideas in a supportive environment and yet it can be a challenging process to get independent work off the ground. The Mill is thrilled with the world-class team they have brought together for the residency – who will offer invaluable support in all areas of creating a dance work. In particular, the selected artist will work under the mentorship of one of Australia’s leading choreographers, Kate Champion, who will travel to Adelaide specifically for this residency and will also offer a masterclass to the professional dance and theatre communities. This residency will not only benefit the programs chosen recipient, but will hopefully inspire and engage the wider dance community.”
