Arena Theatre announces Katy Sterran as Associate Artist

The Arena Theatre at the University of Wolverhampton is delighted to announce Katy Sterran as its second Associate Artist.

Katy Sterran is Artistic Director of Flexus Dance Collective. Born in the West Midlands, Sterran’s career in choreography spans almost two decades, developing a reputation for outstanding theatrical, cross-art form works. Through an artistic vision based around psychological, physical & emotional challenge, enriched collaborative journeys with her dancers and practitioners from across the arts sector, Sterran’s innovative work consistently takes risk and challenges what it means to engage and connect with Contemporary Dance in the 21st Century.

Sterran started her Dance Career as a freelance artist before becoming a Teacher of Dance in Education, possessing over 18 years of outstanding practice and contribution to the Performing Arts Education sector. Sterran founded Flexus Dance Collective in 2003, building its profile on her vision to provide high quality provision for creativity, training, performance and engagement, nurturing the talent of dancers throughout Education, early careers and professional training.

Sterran is passionate about her work with Young People and has built a national reputation for her ability to push the possibilities of Youth Dance and achieve Professional standards out of Young artists. Sterran aims to inspire and empower Young People and Young emerging artists, enabling them to be recognised for their creative potential and talent, providing access to skills and experiences fundamental for creative landscapes and industries. 

During COVID-19, Katy spearheaded Flexus Dance Collective’s work attracting international interest, in the remote creation of new works and online provision for young people, emerging artists and professional practitioners across the globe.

The Arena appoints Associate Artists based on an extensive track record of work at the venue, complemented by a desire to influence the output and creative ambition of the theatre. The roles are unpaid, but cement long-term relationships with companies and artists who have invested huge amounts of time and creative endeavour into the Arena Theatre.

The Arena Theatre have been in partnership with Flexus Dance Collective since 2005, during which time the venue has premiered and supported sixteen of Sterran’s works whilst also partnering with Flexus on the delivery of dance platforms, festivals and arts events. Sterran Touring Company and Sterran Dance Theatre are both companies in residence at Arena Theatre.