The Stage

New English Contemporary Ballet announces its closure

Published Tuesday 2 February 2010 at 14:40 by Natalie Woolman

Nottingham-based New English Contemporary Ballet has announced it is to cease trading due to “changing business circumstances which makes it impractical to continue”.

The company, whose patrons include Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, focuses on contemporary ballet and has a full-time dance school. It ceased trading on January 22, following the resignation of the company’s artistic director and co-founder Niall McMahon on January 20. McMahon gave up his post due to ill health, having been on long-term sick leave since November last year.

A notice on the homepage of the company’s website read: “It is with regret we have to inform you that with effect from 5pm, January 22, 2010, the New English Contemporary Ballet Company will cease to trade. This is because of changing business circumstances which makes it impractical to continue.”

NECB, which moved into new premises in a Grade II-listed building last year, has appointed Brearley and Co Accountants to prepare a statement of affairs. The trustees are due to meet tomorrow (Friday) to discuss the future of the company.

In a statement, McMahon said: “I am saddened for the impact the closure will have on staff, students and supporters of the company, there are many people who have worked very hard indeed for the benefit of NECB.

“But in circumstances such as these, health, well-being and family responsibilities ultimately left me with a personal decision which could only resolve itself in one way, and I would thank the many people who have expressed their personal support and warm wishes to me and to my family at this difficult time.”

At the time of the announcement, NECB had 12 staff and 69 pupils from across Britain and Europe.

NECB was founded by Niall McMahon and Joanne Wright and staged its first tour in 2006. In 2008, Arts Council England decided not to grant the company funding under its Grants for the Arts scheme, which artistic director McMahon called “catastrophic” at the time. The company also received support from Nottingham City Council.