Juilliard’s Dance Division is launching a yearlong international collaboration with London’s Rambert School and Studio Wayne McGregor. The project will give Juilliard dancers the opportunity to create new choreography, travel abroad, and work under the direction of Professor Sir Wayne McGregor, who is known for his innovative approach to dance.
The initiative involves three phases. In the first, each school will develop an original piece independently with artists from Studio Wayne McGregor. Juilliard’s work will debut at its annual New Dances: Edition 2025 showcase in December, while Rambert School will present its piece during Preview performances in March.
The next phase brings students from both schools together in New York City, where they will collaborate on additional material with guidance from Studio Wayne McGregor’s artistic team. Later in the year, Juilliard dancers will travel to London for an intensive rehearsal period at McGregor’s studio in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The final result—a full-length collaborative performance—will premiere at a prominent venue in London in May.
“Collaborating with dancers overseas and getting to immerse ourselves in the world of European performance is so excitingly unique,” said John Chappell (BFA ’26), one of the participating fourth-year Juilliard dancers. “Traveling to London with my class is a dream come true.”
The partnership was developed by McGregor; Alicia Graf Mack, former dean and director of Juilliard’s Dance Division; and Amanda Britton, chief executive principal and artistic director of Rambert School.
For many student participants, this represents a significant learning opportunity. “To be presented with this opportunity is such an honor and a treat,” said Arayah Lyte (BFA ’26). “McGregor’s work challenges the play, spontaneity, and personality of its dancers while also requiring technical excellence,” she continued. “I have faith that my class will dive headfirst into this challenge.”
The collaboration highlights ongoing efforts at Juilliard to expand students’ experiences through global partnerships and exposure to influential figures in contemporary dance.
