In conversation with Anthony Matsena

As Anthony Matsena joins our Board of Trustees, we spoke to the choreographer and dancer about his new role, about his career, and about dancing through the current pandemic.

NYAW: Congratulations on being appointed to the NYAW Board of Trustees - we are thrilled to have you on board. What does it mean to you to be joining this organisation and what do you hope to be able to bring/influence in reference to your respected career as a professional dancer?

AM: 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 massive privilege, I mean it was only 4 years ago I was sharing the stage with my fellow NYDW members. I'm hoping to affect positive change on the dance programme in ensuring that as an organisation the work we are delivering is 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 want to make it easier for dancers with different training to the standard ballet and contemporary 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. Lastly, I'm excited to give back to Wales and an organisation that has a special place for me in my heart.

NYAW: How did NYAW inspire you as you pursued your career?

AM: It inspired me to go beyond my limits and maintain a level of excellence and pride in the work we make and produce here in Wales. Having those residencies were I felt like a sponge, learning from all the talent around Wales was second to none. NYAW made me realise the bigger goals and ambitions of what I thought was possible.  

NYAW: Why do you think aspiring Welsh dancers age 16-22 should strive to represent Wales as a member of NYAW? 

AM: I think two things for young dancers striving to represent Wales; one is the pride of the country of Wales that has so much beauty and culture that you need to shout about for the world to learn of how special a country it is and second, to strive for excellence in their careers, experience and connections shape our careers. Here at NYAW, you get to make connections with industry leaders and get to have the highest level of experience with peers you will be working with for years to come.

NYAW: What top tips would you offer to aspiring young dancers (or performers in general)?

AM: I have one tip which is open yourself up to all experiences. You can never predict what you will like and what will be useful at that stage in your career and really in life, so if you see an opportunity to grow and learn then TAKE IT no matter what anyone says.

NYAW: Increasing diversity in the arts is a crucial development we all need to address. NYAW is working hard to reach new audiences and raise awareness of its Bursary scheme which prevents cost from being a barrier for any talented young welsh performer offered a place. How do you feel organisations like NYAW can most effectively reach and promote diversity?

AM: I have thought of this deeply and I think for me it's quite simple. Employing people of colour who understand the communities and cultures they need to reach would have a massive impact. Representation is important, having people who look like the people who we are trying to connect to makes it easier for them to feel more welcomed and not fearful of applying if they feel they belong there.

NYAW: What are your career highlights? 

AM: My career highlights are performing on Britain’s Got Talent in 2010 as A3 with my brothers.
Performing Kerry Nicholls work 'aM' for NYDW 2015 on Sadler's Wells Mainstage.
Me and my brothers first triple bill 'Out Of Options' at The Bunker Theatre in 2017.
Sharing my work 'Vessels of Affliction' on Sadler's Wells Mainstage last year.
Performing in 'Tree' by Idris Elba and Kwame Kwei-Armah last year at MIF and Young Vic Theatre.
Been appointed Associate Artist for NDCWales and Messums Wiltshire this year.
Joining the Board of NYAW. 

NYAW: What are you working on right now? 

AM: I am quite lucky to be working on a performance and film with my company that I co own with my brother, Matsena Performance Theatre, commissioned by Messums Wiltshire. I say lucky because we all know how devastating COVID-19 has been on our careers as performers and makers. There's light at the end of this dark tunnel. Let's all keep making and moving, so we are ready for when the time arrives to share art again.

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Read More: National Youth Arts Wales dance alumni Anthony Matsena appointed to Board of Trustees