Who is Prue Lang?
I’m a choreographer, dancer and physical explorer who loves creating and redefining the language of dance. Originally from Melbourne, my curiosity has led me on artistic adventures throughout the world, including 18 years in Europe.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Nothing, I am as passionate today about dance as the day I started. I see it as my life’s purpose, though I wish I could have made it more financially viable!
Who inspires you and why?
Several international choreographers inspire me. William Forsythe, with whom I had the privilege of collaborating, through his innovative approach to dance as a dynamic language that can provoke new ways of thinking. Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker deeply inspires me with her ability to convey profound human ideas through rigorous choreographic structure. Sharon Eyal inspires me with her exploration of how the dancing body can transcend the physical realm, evoking something truly transcendent.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’ve always been a strong advocate for environmental and social justice, constantly seeking solutions in both my personal life and work despite the weight of climate change. I believe dancers have a unique ability to adapt and think creatively, and I’m passionate about the intersection of ethics and creativity in my projects. My goal is to inspire others to create and shape their lives in alignment with the urgent issues we face today.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love the sea and forest walks, so I adore the Great Ocean Road for its exquisite beaches, coastal tracks and ancient rainforest trails.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Great Ocean Road for those very reasons.
What are you currently reading?
An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal The Hidden Realms Around Us by Ed Yong. The sensory perception of animals and humans is a huge inspiration to me in my work, so I am loving the insights in this book!
What are you currently listening to?
The electronic beats of my composer Chiara Costanza (aka DJ Chiara Kickdrum) – just compelling me to dance!
Happiness is?
The moment where I am in the studio with my dancers and every cell of our bodies is in full creative vibrancy and the ideas are flowing and then suddenly the choreography transcends space and time. Laughing with my wonderful daughter. Dancing with mon Cherie.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope the future holds a kind of poiesis for me – the alchemy of new things emerging, creating and feeling the poetry in life. I want to continue thriving through dance, consolidating and sharing knowledge with fellow dance enthusiasts. I’m excited for more wonderful and vibrant collaborations, and I hope to find supportive structures that allow me to create even better work and share it with a wider audience. Ultimately, I aim to inspire!
Prue has choreographed Lyra for En Pointe – which will be presented by The Australian Ballet School as part of Arts Centre Melbourne’s Morning Melodies program on Tuesday 13 May 2025. For more information, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Prue Lang – photo by Frederick Mutswagiwa