Hofesh Shechter OBE Awarded Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ambassador to the UK

Hofesh Shechter Company is proud to announce that world-renowned choreographer and composer Hofesh Shechter OBE has been appointed to the rank of Chevalier (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters).

This prestigious distinction was presented by Her Excellency Hélène Tréheux-Duchêne, the French Ambassador to the United Kingdom. The honour recognises Shechter’s significant contribution to the arts and his enduring influence on the cultural landscape in France and internationally.

Her Excellency Hélène Tréheux-Duchêne said on awarding the honour to Shechter: “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.”

Hofesh Shechter said on receiving the honour: “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, commented: “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 has enjoyed a particularly close relationship with France throughout his career. His many works have toured the country including most recently the company’s international hit Theatre of Dreams which had its world premiere at the Théâtre de la Ville, Paris in 2024 before a UK Premiere at Sadler’s Wells, London and which continues to tour internationally. His work also includes creations for other major dance companies including his latest full-length work, Red Carpet, created specifically for the Paris Opera Ballet at the Palais Garnier in 2025 – the first time the choreographer has devised an entire evening for a company other than his own.

From the early support of Théâtre de la Ville to his recent cinematic collaboration with director Cédric Klapisch on the hit film En corps, which received nine César Award nominations and in which his choreography played a central role, France has been a cornerstone of Shechter’s career. His company, based in London, also plays a key role in exporting productions and importing talent of the highest quality, energising and strengthening Franco-British cultural ties, supporting innovation, and building invaluable partnerships with and investment from its network of co-commissioning and funding partners and presenting venues in the UK and France.

Hofesh was recently appointed Co-director of L’Agora – Cité Internationale de la Danse, Montpellier alongside Jann Gallois, Dominique Hervieu and Pierre Martinez. This leadership position in one of France’s most important international dance centres underscores his long-term commitment to the French artistic landscape and his dedication to fostering the next generation of international dance talent. He is also an Associate Artist of Sadler’s Wells and Artist-in-Residence of Gauthier Dance (2021-2026).

Established in 1957, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres is awarded to individuals who have distinguished themselves by their creativity in the cultural sphere or by the influence they have exerted on the reputation of the arts in France and throughout the world. Shechter joins an illustrious list of previous recipients, including Rudolf Nureyev, William Forsythe, and Cate Blanchett.

For press information please contact Cliόna Roberts cliona@crpr.co.uk