National Youth Arts Wales dance alumni Anthony Matsena appointed to Board of Trustees
National Youth Arts Wales has appointed choreographer and dancer Anthony Matsena to its Board of Trustees, bringing a fresh and inspiring perspective to the governance of Wales’ leading youth arts charity at this defining time.
An exciting and rising talent in contemporary dance, Anthony is a former member of the National Youth Dance Wales (NYDW) and now professionally recognised for his work with Sadlers Wells, National Dance Company of Wales (NDCWales) and performing most recently in Tree at the Young Vic, created by Idris Elba and Kwame Kewi-Armah.
Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Swansea from the age of 13, Anthony developed his passion and skill for dance attending hip-hop, African and Contemporary lessons. His first professional performance came in 2014 when he was spotted by Matthew Bourne’s artistic team and selected to perform in Lord of the Flies, New Adventures at Wales Millennium Centre. He soon joined National Youth Dance Wales where he gained a pivotal early career highlight; performing Kerry Nicholls work aM for NYDW 2015 on Sadler's Wells Mainstage. A year later he was accepted into London Contemporary Dance School, where he quickly became an exciting choreographer and ‘one to watch’. In the same year he graduated from his BA (Honours) in Contemporary Dance, Anthony returned to Sadlers Wells where he was prestigiously awarded the role of Young Associate 2018-2020.
David M Jackson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, National Youth Arts Wales said:
“I’m delighted to welcome the brilliant young dancer and choreographer Anthony Matsena to the Board of NYAW. Now working on the global stage, Anthony brings new energy, and a new, diverse perspective to our work for the gifted and talented young people of Wales. I’m already enjoying working with him, and look forward to his enjoying a long, fruitful and inspiring partnership with NYAW.”
Anthony Matsena said:
“It means everything to be a part of the organisation that I would confidently say had a massively positive impact on my career in the field of dance. It's a huge privilege, especially given it was only 4 years ago I was sharing the stage with my fellow NYDW members.
I'm looking forward to effecting positive change on the dance programme to ensure the work we are delivering continues to be in tune with the work that is out there today. Contemporary dance is an ever-morphing beast so it's hard to make sure that younger people are getting the right training to ensure long successful careers in dance. I also want to help with the organisation’s work in widening access; to make it easier for dancers with different training backgrounds to find their way into the programme. I know there's an incredible amount of talent out there in Wales that needs to be reached to its full potential. I'm excited to give back to Wales and an organisation that has a special place in my heart.“
Gillian Mitchell, Chief Executive of NYAW said:
“The NYAW Board plays an important role in helping shape the strategic direction of the organisation. Since it was set up in 2017, the new NYAW Board has shown great leadership, helping to steer the organisation forward in a way that ultimately will make a meaningful impact on the lives of talented young Welsh performers, regardless of their background.
As the organisation continues to grow and further develop at every level, I am delighted that Anthony has agreed to join our Board of Trustees. Encouraging aspiration amongst young people in Wales and reflecting the nation’s diversity is a huge part of our artistic approach and it is critical that is reflected in all elements of what we do in NYAW. As well as bringing his own experience to the Board, we know that Anthony will be an inspiration for young Welsh dancers embarking on their own professional journey.”
Anthony joins the NYAW Board of Trustees alongside David Jackson (Chair), Bryan Hughes, Rhian Hutchings, Christine Lewis OBE, Mathew Milsom, Karen Pimbley and Mathew Talfan.
