Hofesh Shechter OBE has been appointed Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, awarded by the French Ministry of Culture.
The honour was presented by Her Excellency Hélène Tréheux Duchêne, the French Ambassador to the United Kingdom, in recognition of Shechter’s profound contribution to the arts in France and worldwide.
Her Excellency Hélène Tréheux-Duchêne said: “You are one of the most outstanding, influential choreographers of your generation, a visionary artist whose creativity has left a deep impression on the contemporary dance landscape.”
Shechter, known internationally for his groundbreaking choreography and music, said: “I am deeply moved and honoured to receive this award from the French Ministry of Culture. France has played a pivotal role in my artistic journey, from my early studies in Paris to some incredible collaborations, in particular the fruitful and powerful relationship with Théâtre de la Ville, and more recently my co-directorship of L’Agora – Cité Internationale de la Danse in Montpellier. Dance is the love and mission of my life, and for it to be recognised in a way that shows its social impact means the world to me. I feel incredibly grateful for the trust and support I have received from French artists, our partners and audiences over the years.”
Colette Hansford, Executive Producer of Hofesh Shechter Company, added: “This honour is a wonderful acknowledgement of Hofesh’s unique vision and his tireless commitment at the cutting edge of contemporary dance. His choreography, music composition and film work resonate with a raw, visceral energy that has captivated French audiences for nearly two decades. We are thrilled to see his impact celebrated at such a high level.”
Shechter’s work has long held a strong connection with France. His international hit Theatre of Dreams premiered at Théâtre de la Ville, Paris in 2024 before its UK debut at Sadler’s Wells, and continues to tour worldwide. His full-length work Red Carpet, created for the Paris Opera Ballet in 2025, marked the first time he choreographed an entire evening for a company other than his own.
His collaborations include working with director Cédric Klapisch on the César-nominated film En corps, in which his choreography features prominently. Beyond his own company, Shechter serves as Co-director of L’Agora – Cité Internationale de la Danse in Montpellier, Associate Artist of Sadler’s Wells and Artist-in-Residence at Gauthier Dance.
Established in 1957, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres honours individuals who have made distinguished contributions to the arts in France and across the world. Shechter now joins a celebrated list of recipients including Rudolf Nureyev, William Forsythe and Cate Blanchett.
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