CYPRUS CHOREOGRAPHY PLATFORM 

A historical retrospective

Τhe Ministry of Education and Culture, as part of its strategic objective to develop contemporary dance in Cyprus, introduced the “Dance Platform – Dance Encounters” institutional event in 2001. 

 

During its first edition, the Platform took place at the FALCON School Theatre in Nicosia and, as of the following year, it became permanently hosted at the Rialto Theatre in Limassol. The Theatre embraced the Platform and has, ever since, contributed to its establishment and further development, becoming the co-organiser of this institutional event alongside the Cultural Services.

 

Four dance groups took part in its first edition, which was held in March 2001. The five first Platform editions featured a competition section, offering 1st and 2nd prizes, as well as special mentions. In 2007, an effort to enrich the Platform was initiated by organising parallel events, such as a photography exhibition and screenings of dance performances. The effort to further develop the Platform continued in 2008 and, for the first time, the “Dance Throughout the Year” parallel programme was presented at Dance House Lemesos, which has since been actively involved in its organisation.

 

The year 2019 marked the beginning of a new era for the Platform, which was renamed to “Cyprus Choreography Platform”, including additional categories of participants and introducing the “Prize for Newcomer Choreographer”.

 

The institution has significantly contributed to the advancement of dance, and especially of choreography, in Cyprus by promoting works of contemporary dance artists and dance groups. It has also been highlighting the wealth of creativity, imagination and dramaturgy of Cyprus-based choreographers, as well as the dancers’ skills and techniques, all of which enable the contemporary dance sector to further develop and expand its audience. At the same time, invited representatives from cultural organisations and international festivals are offering new opportunities to local choreographers and dancers for international collaborations and for presenting their choreographic pieces to dance festivals and events abroad.