Episode 31: UK-based choreographer Jasmin Vardimon on 25 years of bold, theatrical storytelling

Born and raised on Kibbutz Ein Hahoresh, Jasmin Vardimon was a member of the Kibbutz Dance Company for five years before being awarded the prestigious British Council ‘On the Way to London’ Choreography Award in 1995. This led her to move to the UK permanently, where she went on to establish her eponymous company. Under this banner, she has developed a distinctive choreographic voice, defined by highly physical, detailed movement language, insightful humour, theatricality, and incisive socio-political commentary. For example, 'Justitia' (2007) examined the complexities of the justice system, while 'Park' (2005) explored themes of urban society, land ownership, and the tension between private and public spaces.

Beyond the stage, Jasmin has choreographed for leading musical artists, earning a nomination for Best Choreography at the 2018 UK Music Video Awards for Paloma Faith’s 'Loyal'. She is also deeply committed to training the next generation of dancers, serving as the first guest artistic director of the UK’s National Youth Dance Company in 2013 and running JV2, a full-time Professional Development Diploma programme at JV Home, her creative hub in Ashford, Kent.

To celebrate 25 years of her company, Jasmin has created NOW, a programme revisiting iconic moments from her body of work that remain as relevant today as ever. Ahead of the performances at Sadler’s Wells East from 5th–8th March, I couldn’t wait to speak to Jasmin about her creative process, the evolution of her choreography, and the enduring themes that drive her work.