The internationally renowned Hofesh Shechter Company recently announced the launch of its new company, Shechter Junior. This new venture, providing resource for aspiring professionals, is an apprentice programme for talented, young dancers between the age of 18 and 25 years old. Shechter Junior emerged from Hofesh Shechter and his Company’s commitment to nurturing young artists and creating opportunities for them to gain professional experience in a financially challenged arts scene.
In the demonstration of numerous young talented dancers to Shechter, the decision was made to provide a solid training for them during the period between beginning vocational dance training and graduating, much like Rambert’s youth company Quicksilver. The young dancers will be mentored from longstanding Hofesh Shechter Company members, have access to world-class venues and the stability of an apprentice salary, all self-funded by Hofesh Shechter Company through international touring and other partnerships: a fantastic opportunity. The first dancers involved in the scheme hail from a number of different countries, expanding the reach of the arts and providing for more and more people.
Shechter Junior will make its world debut at at Theatre des Abbesses in Paris this May, with a performance of deGeneration at Theatre des Abbesses (4-20 May), marking the start of a European tour. During their eight month apprenticeship the dancers will also work with Shechter on the creation of a new piece and perform alongside Hofesh Shechter Company in a special event, ‘Hofesh Shechter & Friends’ at HOME, Manchester’s new arts centre. Much hard work is required of the dancers, but the outstanding training and support they will receive as a result is second to none.
From May to November, the deGeneration international tour will take place, in addition to other engagements (venues to be announced).