Final Harry Haythorne Choreographic Award

In 2025, the RNZB Foundation will present the final Harry Haythorne Choreographic Award. 

Established in honour of Harry Haythorne, Artistic Director of the Royal New Zealand Ballet from 1981 to 1992, the award was created to foster the development of exceptional new choreographic talent. 

Before his passing in November 2014, Harry made a generous donation to the Foundation. In accordance with his wishes, his executors invited donations in his memory to the Foundation in lieu of flowers. The Foundation also gratefully acknowledges Sally Jarman for her inspired idea to establish the fund. 

Thanks to Harry’s generosity and the support of his friends and colleagues, the award has enabled several RNZB artists to explore and develop original choreographic work. Since the inaugural award in 2015, presented in partnership with the RNZB, seven choreographers have been recognised. 

The final award will be granted to RNZB Soloist and Choreographer in Residence, Shaun James Kelly, for Chrysalis, his first mainstage work for the RNZB. Chrysalis will premiere in the upcoming RNZB season Home, Land and Sea.

Inspired by Shaun’s own journey, from a young dancer in Scotland to a creative voice in New Zealand, the work mirrors a process of transformation. Set to music by Philip Glass, Chrysalis brings his cross-continental odyssey to life with a choreographic style that is elegant, nuanced, and deeply musical. 

The RNZB Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all those who contributed to the fund. Your generosity has made a lasting impact on the future of choreography in New Zealand.