Tina Downham
VANESSA LEFRANÇOIS is the new Executive Director of charity Dancers’ Career Development (DCD).
She succeeds current Executive Director JENNIFER CURRY, who will depart in July following 13 years in post.
Lefrançois is an arts and cultural consultant with 15 years' experience as a freelance choreographer and director for opera, theatre, and dance companies. She has experience in senior roles including Joint Director and CEO of Oxford Playhouse, Artistic Director and CEO of Somerset-based Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre, and Director of Recreational & Prevocational Dance at The Place, London. She is also a trustee of South East Dance.
Lefrançois said she is “honoured” to lead DCD, and to “endorse its commitment to nurture an increasingly diverse spectrum of dance artists, across the UK”.
“The trials and tribulations of the past few years has highlighted the importance of this pioneering charity, dedicated to guiding dancers through periods of uncertainty, challenge and transition,” she added.
“As the dance sector continues to reinvent and transform itself, I recognise DCD’s resolve to be agile, remain relevant and responsive to dancers’ evolving needs and ambitions.”
Outgoing Executive Director Curry added: “I have strived to lead the charity through calm and caring words and actions, and with a curiosity and bravery that befits a charity that is such a pioneer in its field”.
“I will continue to support the work of DCD and look forward to observing its next chapter with Vanessa’s leadership.”