We are proud to announce that Louise Richards, Co-founder and Executive Director of Motionhouse, has been awarded an MBE for her services to dance in the New Year’s Honours list published today.
Co-founder and Artistic Director Kevin Finnan, who was awarded an MBE for services to dance after his role as choreographer and movement director of the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, said:
“I’m so proud of Louise and all her achievements to support the sector that she loves. She has made a huge contribution to dance in the UK over the past 37 years since we founded Motionhouse together and this award recognises the commitment and dedication that she has demonstrated throughout her career.”
Chair of the Motionhouse Board of Trustees, Toby Smith said: “Louise believes in the power of dance to change lives, and this belief is the driving force behind everything that Motionhouse does. On behalf of all the Trustees, congratulations to Louise on this well-deserved achievement and for everything she does to support dance in the UK.”
Louise co-founded Motionhouse with Kevin in 1988 and is the driving force behind Motionhouse’s trailblazing journey and global success. Her vision shapes the company’s activity and strategic direction. Committed to the development of the dance sector, she acts as a mentor for performers, arts leaders and organisations, as well as developing a range of apprenticeships and professional development strands for the Motionhouse programme.
Listen to Louise live on BBC CWR with Phil Upton on the announcement (Louise is interviewed at 1 hour 53 mins)
Image Jo Lewis Photography