Restless Dance Theatre is proud to celebrate Artistic Director Michelle Ryan, who has been nominated for the 2026 Global Arts Prize by the Global Leaders Institute.
The nomination recognises Michelle’s outstanding leadership and contribution to the arts, particularly her decades-long commitment to advancing inclusive dance practice in Australia and internationally.
The announcement comes as Michelle returns from Melbourne, where she was invited to speak as part of the inaugural Australian Dance Biennale, presented within RISING Festival. Joining international presenters, artists and industry leaders from around the world, Michelle participated in a roundtable discussion exploring the future of inclusive dance and the role artists and organisations play in creating more accessible and representative creative industries.
Throughout the discussion, Michelle shared insights from her extensive career leading Restless Dance Theatre, highlighting the company’s collaborative approach to creating contemporary dance with artists with and without disability. The opportunity also allowed her to connect with global peers, exchange ideas, and strengthen international relationships that continue to shape the future of inclusive dance.
For more than three decades, Michelle has been a driving force behind Restless Dance Theatre’s national and international reputation for artistic excellence. Under her leadership, the company has created acclaimed performances, fostered the careers of countless artists, and championed authentic representation both on and off the stage.
This Global Arts Prize nomination is a recognition not only of Michelle’s leadership, but of the impact inclusive dance continues to have in transforming perspectives, building connection, and creating meaningful artistic experiences.
Congratulations, Michelle, on this well-deserved recognition. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement and look forward to seeing your continued influence on the future of dance, both in Australia and around the world.