Why it matters: DanceEast is one of the UK's leading dance organisations and the home of dance in the East of England, recording up to 75,000 attendances annually across its activities, projects, and performances.
The details: Missen joins from Company Chameleon, which he co-founded in Manchester in 2007 and where he serves as co-artistic director. The Arts Council England NPO presents over 50 indoor and outdoor performances annually.
The appointment follows a recruitment process led by trustees and involving Arts Council England, which attracted expressions of interest and applications from across the UK and internationally.
His background: Missen trained at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance and has worked with companies including Scottish Dance Theatre. He has movement-directed plays for the National Theatre and The Royal Exchange, and was series movement director for "Everything I Know About Love" (BBC One 2021/22) and "Fool Me Once" (Netflix 2024).
He has taught at major dance institutions throughout the UK and internationally, and is a Clore Fellow and accredited coach. Missen serves on influential networks including Dance Consortia North-West and the Greater Manchester Culture Steering Group.
What they're saying: "I'm honoured to take on the role of Chief Executive & Creative Director of DanceEast and build on Brendan's remarkable legacy," Missen said. "DanceEast has cemented its position as a beacon of bold creativity, and as a critical part of the UK Dance infrastructure."
Shreela Ghosh, chair of DanceEast's board of trustees, said: "We were inspired by Anthony's bold vision for DanceEast, which was also inclusive and compelling."
Outgoing artistic director and chief executive Brendan Keaney OBE said: "Not only does Anthony bring a wealth of dance expertise, he also shares the values that make DanceEast a special place for audiences, participants, and employees."
What's next: Missen will join DanceEast in October and relocate from Manchester to Suffolk. The organisation is based at the purpose-built Jerwood DanceHouse on the Ipswich waterfront.
The bottom line: DanceEast has secured an experienced cultural leader with international credentials to guide the organisation through its next phase of development in the East of England.
