Sir Richard Alston obituary
Sir Richard Alston, who has died at the age of 77, was a landmark figure in contemporary dance, known for his significant contributions to the independent dance scene during the 1970s and 80s. He began his illustrious career in 1967 with the establishment of the London Contemporary Dance School and Theatre, which marked a foundational moment in British dance history.
Alston directed Ballet Rambert for six years starting in 1986 and later founded the Richard Alston Dance Company, which he led from 1994 until 2020. His signature style combined lyrical elegance with compositional refinement and musical inspiration, creating a distinctive movement quality that dancers and teachers still refer to as 'Alstony.' His influence continues to resonate within the dance community, shaping the way contemporary dance is taught and performed today.
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Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/sep/08/sir-richard-alston-obituary
Alston directed Ballet Rambert for six years starting in 1986 and later founded the Richard Alston Dance Company, which he led from 1994 until 2020. His signature style combined lyrical elegance with compositional refinement and musical inspiration, creating a distinctive movement quality that dancers and teachers still refer to as 'Alstony.' His influence continues to resonate within the dance community, shaping the way contemporary dance is taught and performed today.
—
Summarized by Ballet Trader from The Guardian — Dance.
Read the full article: https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2026/sep/08/sir-richard-alston-obituary