**Choreographer Sir Matthew Bourne Receives Freedom of the City of London for Transformative Role in Dance**
Celebrated choreographer and director Sir Matthew Bourne has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London, a prestigious recognition that marks his prolific four-decade career and outstanding influence on contemporary dance. The accolade highlights his crucial role invigorating both classical and modern productions, firmly establishing him as one of the country’s favourite “bringers of joy”.
Sir Matthew, now 65, accepted the honour on Thursday at a ceremony held at London’s historic Guildhall. In a heartfelt speech, he expressed his deep-rooted connection to the capital, saying, “As a born Londoner, I am particularly thrilled to be receiving the freedom today.” He reflected on his heritage as the “proud son of two children of the Blitz”, both hailing from nearby Walthamstow, and spoke about the city’s significance as the setting and inspiration for many of his works — including “Cinderella”, “Oliver!”, “Mary Poppins”, and his iconic reimagining of “Swan Lake”.
The Freedom of the City of London is a tradition that dates as far back as 1237 and remains a symbol of civic appreciation. Past recipients have included such figures as comedian Sir Lenny Henry, the theatre impresario Sir Cameron Mackintosh, and Olympic gold medallist Lady Mary Peters.
Sir Matthew’s nomination came from Mark Lucraft KC, Recorder of London, and Fiona Adler, honorary secondary of London, both of whom are associated with the Old Bailey. They hailed his “consummate skill for reimagining storytelling through dance” and praised the impact his productions have had on audiences in Britain and across the world.
A defining figure within British theatre, Sir Matthew has served as artistic director for Adventures in Motion Pictures, before founding the acclaimed company New Adventures in 2002. Through these platforms, he has introduced contemporary audiences to inventive interpretations of classics. Notable works include “The Car Man”, a bold adaptation of Bizet’s “Carmen”, as well as “Romeo And Juliet”, “Play Without Words”, “The Red Shoes”, and much more.
Sir Matthew’s artistic reach also extends to some of Britain’s best-loved West End musicals. In partnership with theatrical producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh, he has contributed to productions such as “Mary Poppins”, “My Fair Lady”, and “Oliver!”, helping introduce dance as a vital storytelling tool to wider audiences.
James Thomson, deputy policy chairman of the City of London Corporation, commented on Bourne’s vibrant influence: “As well as a major exporter of British dance to the rest of the world, Matthew is also the bringer of much joy, with the ability to leave people walking on air as they file out of the theatre.” The sentiment is echoed by multitudes of theatre-goers and millions of admirers, both in the UK and worldwide.
The scale of Sir Matthew’s achievement is reflected in his armful of trophies. In 2020, he was recognised as the individual with the most Olivier Awards to his name, marking his ninth overall. The choreographer also boasts two Tony Awards for his exceptional work on “Swan Lake”, and in 2019 received a special Olivier for his longstanding contribution to the art.
Sir Matthew’s contributions to British culture have previously been marked with royal honours. He became an OBE in 2001 and was knighted in the Queen’s New Year Honours List of 2016, both for services to dance.
Reflecting on his journey and the new honour, Sir Matthew added his personal thanks to those who nominated him for the freedom, concluding, “I am deeply honoured and grateful.” For many within the arts, this moment not only recognises the dizzying heights of Sir Matthew’s career but also shines a spotlight on the transformative power of dance in British culture.