Hofesh Shechter is one of dance’s most exciting and prolific talents, but it has been 15 long months since the lauded choreographer’s work has been performed on stage. Usually it is playing in cities around the world through his titular company’s international touring or creations for others, the result of his constant drive to break boundaries, cross genres and connect universally. For more than a decade the Israeli-born, UK-based artist had taken his work to stages everywhere – opera and Broadway as well as dance – and then suddenly, due to COVID-19, it was nowhere.

Hofesh Shechter's CultHofesh Shechter’s Cult. Photo © Victor Frankowski

Like the rest of the dance community, Hofesh Shechter Company pivoted to digital engagement. But the stage is home, the crucible for artists and audiences. As Shechter tells Limelight via video call from London, it’s the longest he’s gone without seeing his work performed since trying his hand at choreography in 2003.

Finally, this month marks the end of that unnatural drought – with not just one but two premieres, which represent notable opposites in viewing environments and locations, as well as positions in Shechter’s oeuvre.

Australia figures prominently in the...