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John Ashford

July 6, 1944 - December 17, 2023

Sadly John left us in December after a short illness. Megumi was at his side when he decided he was ready to go, peacefully. Over a long career, John was the first Theatre Editor of Time Out magazine (60s), Manager of Royal Court Theatre Upstairs (70s), Theatre Director at the ICA (early 80s), Director of The Place Theatre and founder of Aerowaves (1986-2022). His core beliefs and passions were the same, whether for theatre or dance. He was always thinking of new ideas - even while sunbathing on the beach. Always out looking for inspiration, new possibilities to explore. Always looking ahead. He loved sharing his ideas with like-minded people, creating joy together with them, connecting to the wider world - Europe, the Far East and beyond. John had special gift for spotting talent and potential in people, whether they were artists, writers or administrators and he helped them to develop their potential. That said, in return those people gave him great pleasure and made his life richer. John received a CBE(2002) for services to dance and, in 2022, the award for Outstanding Achievement at the Critics Circle National Dance Awards. If you would like to contribute your thoughts, please feel free to do so.

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2024-07-02 18:35:23 wrote:

John was a truly inspiring person for me from my mid 20s when he gave me time, listened to, and supported my aims to curate, commission and direct experimental dance pieces and workshops linked to technological evolutions. Many times in the 90s we had challenging and exciting debates, on panels, at suppers, especially on the European circuit at IETM meetings and at dance festivals globally. I recognise he gave so many people the energy and confidence to follow their dreams and this created a generation of outputs from the UK brimming with energy and positive aims. This continued with Aerowaves and other projects. People like John, sharing aspirations and encouraging all to fulfill their potentials, are much needed in this world. Thank you John.

2024-07-02 18:35:23 wrote: John was a truly inspiring person for me from my mid 20s when he gave me time, listened to, and supported my aims to curate, commission and direct experimental dance pieces and workshops linked to technological evolutions. Many times in the 90s we had challenging and exciting debates, on panels, at suppers, especially on the European circuit at IETM meetings and at dance festivals globally. I recognise he gave so many people the energy and confidence to follow their dreams and this created a generation of outputs from the UK brimming with energy and positive aims. This continued with Aerowaves and other projects. People like John, sharing aspirations and encouraging all to fulfill their potentials, are much needed in this world. Thank you John.

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