Ambassadors
An important component of the Dance Down Under Strategy (2003-2007) has been the US ‘Ambassadors’ program.
Ambassadors are US-based dance and performing arts presenters who act as personal advocates for Australian dance companies and artists within the US. They actively participate in APAP events on behalf of Australian dance and act as ‘mentors’ for nominated Australian artists or companies.
The 2007/08 Ambassadors were announced at a special Dance Down Under reception at the Australian Consulate in New York in January 2007. They are:
Lane Czaplinski is the artistic director of On the Boards, which is one of the leading centres for contemporary performance in the Western United States.
Paul J Organisak, a native of Pittsburgh, has spent most of his 20-plus years in arts administration in the dance field.
Michael Reed has worked with Arizona State University Public Affairs since retiring in the autumn of 1995 from a twelve-year international dance career with Les Ballets de Monte Carlo, Boston Ballet and Les Grands Ballet Canadiens de Montreal among others.
Laurie Uprichard is the 2008 artistic director at the International Dance Festival, Ireland. Previously, Laurie had been executive director of the Danspace Project, a position held since 1992. During her tenure, Danspace Project significantly increased in budget and audience size, technical capability, and outreach to the dance community.
More information
Meet the Australian delegates and pick up a special OzArts Promotional Pack at the Australia Council’s Exhibition Booth (#’s 913 and 915) in Hall of the Americas II.
For all enquiries regarding the Australian presence at APAP 2008, please email Jennifer Barry, project manager: jennifer@keepbreathing.com.au.