OBITUARY, Richard Alston Death, British Choreographer and Artistic Director Has Passed Away
We are deeply saddened by the death of Sir Richard Alston, one of Britain’s most important choreographers and a defining figure in the history of The Place and the London Contemporary Dance School (LCDS). Born on October 30, 1948, in Sussex, Richard’s journey was inextricably linked to the institutions he helped shape, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of British contemporary dance.
Richard’s relationship with The Place was a lifelong odyssey. He first arrived as one of the earliest students of the London Contemporary Dance School, absorbing the foundational principles of the art form. His return as Artistic Director in 1994 marked a transformative era, during which he established the Richard Alston Dance Company as a resident company, fostering a unique environment of creative excellence.
Across more than half a century, Richard’s prolific output included over 200 dances. He was a master of his craft, celebrated for his exquisite musicality and an unwavering belief in the necessity of beauty within movement. His work did not merely entertain; it challenged and elevated the standard of contemporary dance globally.
His influence remains woven into the very fabric of The Place and LCDS. Even in his final weeks, Richard’s dedication was undiminished; he spent his time watching videos of students rehearsing his works, sending back detailed, insightful notes. He remained a mentor to the end, ensuring his vision would continue to breathe through new generations of dancers. He will be profoundly missed.