An Irish contemporary dance company and an acclaimed Irish choreographer are severing ties with one of the world's most prestigious dance theatres over differences regarding the war in Gaza.
Michael Keegan-Dolan and west Kerry based dance theatre, Teach Damhsa, say they are ending their longstanding relationship with Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London due to the theatre’s sponsorship by Barclays.
Barclays has faced heavy criticism for its alleged relationships with defence firms that produce equipment used by the Israeli Defence Force. Sadler’s Wells cites Barclays as its principal corporate partner and the current chair of Sadler’s Wells Board of Trustees is also the chairman of Barclays plc.
In a statement, Mr Keegan-Dolan says both he and Teach Damhsa were unhappy with the response from Sadler’s Wells when concerns were raised over the theatre’s association with Barclays.
"I can no longer remain affiliated with Sadler’s Wells, particularly in light of the Theatre’s partnership with Barclays and the lack of meaningful institutional response to the concerns raised around it," he said.
"Barclays’ connections to the arms trade and to an Israeli government engaged in grave human rights violations, most tragically in Gaza, are impossible to ignore."
"As an Irish artist, this carries added weight. The legacy of colonial violence shapes how we see the world and our responsibility within it."
Mr Keegan-Dolan has been an Associate Artist at Sadler’s Wells since 2021, a prestigious position widely seen as reflection of the Dubliner’s reputation as one of the leading lights in contemporary dance.
Mr Keegan-Dolan says he will also step away from this role.
"Unless there is a meaningful shift in position by the institution, The Only Tune, created in March 2020 and scheduled for November as part of a triple bill, will mark the end of my contribution as an Associate Artist."
Last May, the Barclays AGM in London was interrupted by protestors carrying banners accusing the financial services institution of "arming Israel" and "banking on genocide".
Due to its sponsorship by Barclays, Sadler’s Wells has also been the focus of protests. Groups such as Culture Workers Against Genocide and Palestine Solidarity Campaign are demanding an end to the theatre’s relationship with the financial services institution.
Barclays Bank has repeatedly defended its position by stating its role as a lender is to provide financial services to defence companies, including US, UK and European firms supplying products to NATO and other allies.
Sadler’s Wells Theatre is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading dance institutions, with over half a million people attending shows in its London theatres every year.
Established by Mr Keegan-Dolan in the west Kerry Gaeltacht in 2016, Teach Damhsa, is one of Ireland's leading contemporary dance theatres.
It's productions have been staged in some of the world’s most prolific venues. The theatre has had a close relationship with Sadler’s Wells, where award-winning productions such as Swan Lake/Loch na hEala and Mám have enjoyed considerable success.
RTÉ News has requested a response from Sadler's Wells Theatre regarding the departure of Teach Damhsa and Mr Keegan-Dolan, but one has yet to be provided.
Mr Keegan-Dolan says this week’s staging of "How to be a Dancer in Thirty Two Thousand Easy Lessons", a biographical work in collaboration with Rachel Poirier, will be the last Teach Damhsa production to be hosted by the London theatre.
"This decision follows extensive reflection and consultation with Sadler’s Wells leadership, the Teach Damhsa board and team, my collaborators, and my conscience. I’m grateful for the respectful working relationship I’ve had with many at Sadler’s Wells over the years, and for the opportunities we’ve shared," he said.
"As artists, we don’t get to choose the world we live in, but we do get to choose where we stand and how we respond. I stand with those calling for justice, dignity, and peace for the Palestinian people," he added.
