February 26, 2015
Tena koutou katoa
The New Zealand Dance Festival Trust is delighted to announce that Carrie Rae Cunningham will become the Artistic Director of the New Zealand Dance Festival Trust. Carrie Rae has been with NZDFT for 8 years and has worked closely and successfully as Producer and Assistant Director.
‘Carrie Rae has a deep understanding of Tempo Dance Festival, proven aesthetic sensibilities and is adept at building relationships with both the dance community and the public. We are delighted to obtain her programming and festival experience for the benefit of NZDFT and Tempo’- Marama LLoydd and Suzanne Smith, Co-Chairs of NZDFT.
Originally from the USA, Carrie Rae has a BA in Creative Writing and Dance Studies from the University of Memphis. She has worked as a teaching artist and dance educator in schools, as well as an administrator, producer and choreographer for a number of arts organisations, including serving as the Artistic Director of the Crittenden Arts Council (now Delta Arts) in West Memphis, Arkansas for 3 years.
She has choreographed, performed and toured with several contemporary dance companies, as well as founding and running her own dance company, Metal Velvet Dance Project, while in Memphis.
After earning her Masters in Dance Studies from the University of Auckland, Carrie Rae worked with numerous local choreographers and performed in several dance and performance art productions. She has produced several independent productions, including the inaugural season of Short + Sweet Dance Auckland and shows for Auckland Fringe Festivals. Carrie Rae has also served as a dance reviewer and as a feedback and critical response consultant to many dance companies and artists, including the New Zealand Dance Company, Atamira Dance Company and Michael Parmenter.
Carrie Rae says “I’ve always been inspired by the wide variety of dance being presented in New Zealand. The dance and performance community here isn’t afraid to push the boundaries and create something radical. I’m very excited about this year’s festival and for the opportunity to share some of my favourite artists – and a few surprises – with audiences in October.”
Carrie Rae will take up her contract from May 2015.
Nga mihi whaariki
Marama Lloydd and Suzanne Smith
Co-chairs
New Zealand Dance Festival Trust
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