After more than a decade shaping one of Australia’s most distinctive contemporary dance voices, Kyle Page and Amber Haines will step down as co-Artistic Directors of Dancenorth Australia in 2027.
The announcement marks the beginning of a considered transition for the Gurambilbarra (Townsville)-based company, with Page and Haines’ current work in development, set to premiere in 2027, to be their final project in the roles.
Over 11 years, the pair have reshaped Dancenorth into a nationally and internationally recognised force, defined by a clear choreographic voice and a deep commitment to artists and community. Their output is substantial: 21 mainstage works, performances to almost 200,000 audience members, and presentations across more than 55 international festivals and venues.
Yet the legacy extends well beyond scale. Under their direction, Dancenorth has become a place of sustained artistic enquiry and exchange, commissioning new work, supporting independent and emerging artists, and building meaningful connections with regional communities. Their projects have ranged from intimate works such as STILL, created for just 21 audience members, to large-scale productions including HOME, performed to a global televised audience of 1.5 billion at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Dancenorth Chair Dr Judith McLean reflected on the breadth of their contribution, describing a leadership defined by “boundless creativity, care and commitment” and a lasting impact on both the Company and the wider dance ecology.
For Page and Haines, the departure is framed with characteristic generosity. “Over the past 11 years we have had the extraordinary privilege of sharing studios, stages and creative journeys with the most remarkable humans. We have been shaped, challenged and inspired in ways that will stay with us for the rest of our lives.”
Their connection to place remains central. “Regional Australia is truly where our hearts are, and we are not leaving Gurambilbarra (Townsville). We look forward to supporting the next chapter of Dancenorth as devoted fans and audience members.”
Co-CEO Hillary Coyne described the partnership as “the highlight of my working life”, pointing to a leadership style grounded as much in care as in artistic ambition, and one that will continue to resonate through the Company for years to come.
The early announcement allows time for a thoughtful handover, with recruitment for new artistic leadership set to begin in the second half of 2026. In the meantime, Dancenorth’s upcoming seasons signal a company still in full stride, with national and international touring alongside new commissions continuing to build on the foundations Page and Haines have established.
It is a rare thing for a leadership tenure to feel both expansive and grounded. At Dancenorth, Page and Haines have achieved both, leaving a body of work, and a way of working, that will continue to shape the Company long after their final curtain.