Pioneering Dance Leader Emma Gladstone Dies at 63

Gladstone, known for her innovative approach and significant contributions to the field of dance, was honored with an OBE in 2021.

Emma Gladstone, a pioneering leader in the global dance community and former head of Dance Umbrella, has passed away at the age of 63 after a brief illness.
During her career, Gladstone served as the artistic programmer at Sadler’s Wells, where she founded the Jerwood Choreographic Research Programme, and as the chief executive of the Dance Umbrella festival, where she revitalized the program and expanded its accessibility.
Gladstone's innovative approach extended beyond traditional performance spaces, orchestrating events in major city venues, smaller arts centers, art galleries, and outdoor locations.
She played a pivotal role in the co-founding of Adventures in Motion Pictures, now known as New Adventures, alongside Sir Matthew Bourne and introduced UK audiences to numerous international companies for the first time.
Gladstone was honored with an OBE in 2021 for her significant contributions to the field of dance and served as the artistic director for the prestigious BBC Young Dancer competition in 2015, 2019, and 2022.