After seven brilliant years, Choreographer and Director Yvette Lee has announced that she will depart from her role as Artistic Director of the Victorian Dance Festival (VDF).
From her first year leading the festival at Melbourne’s iconic Exhibition Building, Lee has played an instrumental role in shaping VDF into the much loved and respected event it is today. Under her artistic direction, alongside Directors Deborah and Deborah Searle, the festival has grown into a vibrant celebration of connection, education, and community, becoming a cornerstone of the Australian dance calendar.
“It’s been such a joy to be part of something that’s had a meaningful and positive impact on the dance community,” Lee says. “You can’t help but feel immense pride watching it grow year after year.”
With a career that spans stadium productions, television, musical theatre, and broadcast entertainment, Lee’s focus is shifting deeper into creative and show direction. In 2025, she will serve at the Sydney Opera House, having been awarded their prestigious Emerging Directors Grant, a major step in her pursuit of large scale, immersive style directing.
“This by no means suggests I’m exiting the dance community,” she adds. “Dance is my foundation and will always be at the forefront of my life. But I’m evolving into a wider spaces now, and I want to give that path the time and breath it needs. Still, the dance community will always hold the most important place in my heart.”
Lee has long been an advocate for growth, inclusivity, and the importance of creating space for new voices.
“I never want to gatekeep opportunities. I believe deeply in supporting new energy and fresh perspectives. Sometimes, stepping aside is what allows something to evolve into a new and exciting version of itself, and that’s a good thing.”
She leaves the role with heartfelt thanks to Deborah and Daniel Searle, the directors and visionaries behind VDF, and the team that has worked alongside her over the years. “It’s rare to be part of something that does so much good. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
“It’s been a joy to work with Yvette for these past seven years,” shares Deborah Searle. “Together we’ve grown, expanded and developed an event like no-other in the world – a true celebration of dance. Yvette will always be a big part of VDF and we thank her for her leadership, dedication and creativity. We’ve had SO much fun!”
As she steps into this next phase of her creative career, Lee leaves a powerful legacy of artistic excellence, collaboration, and deep respect for the dance community she loves.
VDF has a new, passionate Artistic Director waiting in the wings eager to take on the baton from Lee, building on her legacy. Watch out for an announcement very soon…
Celebration tickets are now on sale for VDF26, which looks to be once again the premier dance event in the country! Behind-the-scenes many exciting opportunities are in the works. Just www.VDF.com.au to get $135 off a weekend ticket with the Celebration rate, for a very limited time.
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