Spell
Sydney Dance will dedicate itself to the creation of “Spell,” a work that explores the limits of emotional and physical expression. This will be set to music from Dessner's 2024 album Solos, which features his collection of pieces for solo instruments in collaboration with some of the world's leading musicians..
Rafael Bonachela
Rafael Bonachela born 1972 in Spain, is a choreographer and artistic director known for blending high art and popular culture. He danced with Rambert Dance Company (1992-2004) and later founded Bonachela Dance Company. In 2009, he became Artistic Director of Sydney Dance Company, leading it into a new era of contemporary dance.
His work spans collaborations with top companies like Acosta Danza and Ballet Boyz, and he has performed pieces by Merce Cunningham, Jiri Kylián, and Ohad Naharin. Bonachela has also worked with composers (Ezio Bosso, Bryce Dessner), musicians (Kylie Minogue, Sarah Blasko), orchestras, visual artists, and filmmakers. 2025 marks his 17th year leading Sydney Dance Company.
Sydney Dance Company
Sydney Dance Company began as a group founded in 1969 by dancer Suzanne Musitz. Soon known as The Dance Company (NSW), from 1975-1976 the Company was directed by Dutch choreographer Jaap Flier, before the appointment of Australian choreographer Graeme Murphy in 1976. In 1979 Murphy and his partner Janet Vernon instituted the defining name change to Sydney Dance Company and proceeded to lead it for a remarkable 30 years.
Since 2009, Sydney Dance Company has been led by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela, establishing itself as a center of creative excellence. With 17 dancers, it presents works by Bonachela and guest choreographers such as Jacopo Godani and Alexander Ekman, collaborating with prestigious festivals and orchestras.