In memoriam: John Ashford (1944-2023)

IETM joins performing arts colleagues and organisations across Europe and beyond in remembering John Ashford, director of The Place Theatre (1986–2009) and director of Aerowaves (1996–2022), who died peacefully in London on 17 December after a short illness at the age of 79. John is survived by his wife.

John´s contribution towards the development of contemporary dance and promotion of artists' careers in Europe and beyond cannot be measured. As the driving force of Aerowaves for 25 years, he - along with colleagues from all over Europe - built a network which enabled collaboration, exchange and showcasing of contemporary dance on a scale never seen before.

John´s fierce passion for the improvement of condition for dance and its artists was an inspiration to many. His willingness to engage in dialogue about dance and its magic across the globe was unmatched. 

His reasons as best described by his own words in the Aerowaves documentary by Enya Belak:  

WHY DANCE?

“Because dance is the poetry of theatre. Because dancers are the most modest of  magnificent artists. Because the integrity of dance is so rarely compromised.”

IETM sends John´s wife, family, friends and colleagues our most sincere condolences

Ása Richardsdóttir

IETM Secretary General 

Picture: John Ashford in Enya Belak's documentary 'Aerowaves at 25'.