Chunky Move announces Joel Bray as inaugural Choreographer In Residence

Set to commence in 2021, Joel will undertake an $80,000 two-year residency with Victoria’s leading dance company, an initiative in partnership with the Tanja Liedtke Foundation. 

The introduction of this major new initiative extends Chunky Move’s commitment to supporting established independent choreographers to develop their careers while furthering the company’s ambition to transform how contemporary dance is experienced, valued and understood.

The residency is designed to provide Australian choreographic artists with extensive support to develop and present new work, further their artistic practice, gain organisational knowledge, extend their professional networks and build a meaningful ongoing connection with Chunky Move.

“It was dancing with Chunky Move which brought me back to Australia. So I am so thrilled to be coming onboard as choreographer-in-residence; it feels like coming home” said Joel Bray. “I received the news whilst walking through the city and did a little spontaneous dance on the footpath, because this incredible opportunity is such a vote of faith in me and my practice, and a genuine investment in Blackfella work of scale. My heartfelt thanks to both Chunky Move and the Tanya Liedtke Foundation. I can’t wait to get cracking next year!”

Antony Hamilton and Kristy Ayre co-CEO’s of Chunky Move said:

We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Joel Bray as our inaugural Choreographer In Residence for 2021-22. Through the selection process, the panel were blown away by Joel’s enthusiasm for the opportunity and his clear ability to identify how he will work with the company at this critical moment in his career. Joel’s connection to Chunky Move has been significant, having previously been a performer and commissioned artist and we are excited to have his thoughtful, vibrant and creative presence contributing to the artistic program of the company over the next two years.

The Tanja Liedtke Foundation said of the inaugural initiative: “We are fully dedicated to fostering the artistic development of young Australian choreographers and are thankful to be part of this extraordinary program with Chunky Move.”

Header image credit: Daniel Boud