In December 2018, Paul Lightfoot announced that he would step down from the role of Artistic Director of Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT) as of the summer of 2020, after the sixtieth anniversary of the company. In this way he would switch to the role of artistic advisor/ house choreographer, just as his choreographic partner Sol León. During the recruitment process for the new Artistic Director, the Supervisory Board has however decided to end the position of house choreographer. Paul Lightfoot will therefore leave NDT as of December 1, 2020. Sol León will step down as of October 1, 2020. By remaining in position until December, Lightfoot will ensure a smooth transition to the new Artistic Director in the final months of 2020 and will be available for advice.

Pauline van der Meer Mohr, chairman of the Supervisory Board:
“We are very grateful to Sol and Paul for what they have meant and still do for NDT. In 35 years, first as dancers and then as choreographers with nearly 60 ballets, they have left their artistic mark on the company. Through their work and commitment they have contributed greatly to the worldwide success of NDT. We wish Sol and Paul all the success with the steps in their careers and look forward to seeing their creations often on the NDT stage”.

Sol León & Paul Lightfoot:
“We are accepting and respect the change that the RvT is making for the NDT. A new direction without House Choreographers. Therefore we will take distance for the foreseeable future after being 35 years inside the organisation. It has been an incredible journey and we wish the company continuing growth with its originality.”

Lightfoot transfers the role of NDT’s Artistic Director to Canadian Emily Molnar who will commence her tenure on August 15, 2020 at the start of the 2020-2021 theater season.

Sol León and Paul Lightfoot. Photo © & courtesy of Rahi Rezvani