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Choreographer Wayne McGregor to be youth dance champion

04/04/2008

Award-winning choreographer Wayne McGregor will be the country's first youth dance champion, it was announced today.

His appointment follows a review which found that cross government work could increase access to dance for more young people in and out of school.

McGregor, whose new dance show will premiere at Sadlers Wells on April 10th, will be required him to inspire and champion dance to promote it to both boys and girls.

Culture minister Margaret Hodge said she is "thrilled" McGregor agreed to take on the role.

"His career, still in its infancy in many ways, has spanned the whole spectrum of dance. He will be an inspiring role model for young people across the country," she added.

"I believe Wayne is the perfect choice to help us keep the fantastic momentum we now have for young people's dance. I'm looking forward to working with him to realise our commitment that every young person can have the chance to dance."

McGregor added that he is "honoured" to be the first youth dance champion.

"I am passionate about dance which is not only an enormous part of my life, but has opened many intriguing doors for me; I am very pleased now to have the chance to help open similar doors for other young people," he continued.

"When I first discovered my talent for dance, I was fortunate enough to be totally supported in my choice of future career. Not all young people are as lucky in that respect."

Youth Dance England director Linda Jasper commented: "All of us at Youth Dance England look forward to working with Wayne to realise the ambitions of the dance review to increase young people's participation in dance across England."

McGregor was awarded an Olivier award for his show Chroma and has spent the past 18 months creating work for Glastonbury Festival, Paris Opera Ballet and the Royal Ballet.

He has also directed an opera at La Scala, Milan.