ResDance Series 9: Episode 2: Reflections on human connections and dance activism with Richard Chappell
In this episode, Richard Chappell offers insight into his experiences as a choreographer and into the workings of his lead ensemble, Richard Chappell Dance. Our conversation explores his creative processes and the ways his work examines how human connection in dance can restore and heal. Together, we discuss the importance of building a moreemotionally healthy dance sector—one that prioritises the care and well-being of artists—and the ongoing need to highlight the positive enrichment that dance brings to people’s lives. Richard reflects on the vital role of belonging and community in creative work, and how these elements foster a collective hope and joy.
Biography
Richard Chappell is an internationally renowned and award-winning choreographer. Since 2013, Richard has led his ensemble Richard Chappell Dance as a platform for his choreographic research and critically acclaimedperformance work. Richard's creative process is rooted in collaboration and co-authorship. His creations explore human connection as an act of restoration, making space for people to connect deeper with themselves, each other and theland around them. The ensemble’s work shines a light on what people have overcome and where they are going, through the lens of social and climate justice. The ensemble produces work through partnerships with the Royal OperaHouse, BBC Arts, Theatre Royal Plymouth, Dance City, The Place, Studio Wayne McGregor, National Dance Company Wales, British Council, Bristol Museum, Greenwich and Docklands International Festival and British High Commission,amongst many others. Richard has held associateships with Exeter Northcott and Dance in Devon. Richard Chappell Dance is a sector leading organisation, working at the forefront of theatre touring, site responsive performance, artistdevelopment and community co-creation. Richard is currently Co-Chair of Swindon Dance and is a Clore Leadership Fellow.
As a guest choreographer, Richard has created work forrenowned dance companies and institutions, including Rambert School, Stuttgart Ballet, BalletWorks, English National Ballet, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (Singapore), Belfast Ensemble, Bcause Dance Company (Poland), Transitions Dance Company and Frontier Danceland (Singapore). Richard has guest lectured for renowned courses, including Rambert School, ArtEz Institute of the Arts(Holland), Lasalle College of Arts (Singapore), Singapore School of the Arts, Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Bath Spa University and Tring Park School and was a Support Worker for five years through Robert Owen CommunityFoundation.
Headshot Credit: Radek Zawadzki
Contact Details
Socials:
Instagram: @richard.chappell.dance
Facebook: @richardchappelldance
Other Socials: @leadandcreate
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