The prestigious Premio Positano Léonide Massine for the Art of Dance, the world’s oldest award of its kind, celebrates its 52nd edition on the enchanting stage of Spiaggia Grande under the stars on September 7, 2024. This year’s event promises an exceptional program blending classical and contemporary dance, with a distinguished roster of awardees from around the globe.
The event, entirely funded and organized by the Municipality of Positano under the artistic direction of Laura Valente, will honor the South African dancer and choreographer Dada Masilo with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Known for her innovative reinterpretations of classic ballets, Masilo’s work seamlessly integrates African dance, addressing themes of tolerance and universal emotions.
Lucía Lacarra, an internationally acclaimed Spanish étoile will be honored with the Special Dancer of the Year Award for her versatile and multifaceted career. Lacarra, who has graced the world’s most prestigious stages, returns to Positano nearly 30 years after her first recognition at the Massine Awards.
Other notable awardees include Sae Eun Park and Germain Luovet from the Opéra National de Paris, Shale Wagman from the Paris Opéra Ballet (prev. Bayerisches Staatsballett) and Michela Lucenti from Balletto Civile, among others. These artists represent the pinnacle of dance excellence, hailing from renowned companies worldwide.
Mayor Giuseppe Guida expressed his gratitude for the continued support of the Municipality of Positano and the invaluable contributions of the artistic director and the prestigious scientific board. “We are once again set to experience two extraordinary days of dance, celebrating the legacy of Léonide Massine and the magical setting of Li Galli,” he remarked.
Artistic Director Laura Valente emphasized the award’s commitment to honoring the spirit of artists who have made Positano a dance capital. “The Premio Massine continues to be a global stage connecting great masters and emerging talents with contemporary languages,” she said.
Awards 2024:
SAE EUN PARK and GERMAIN LUOVET
Opéra National de Paris – Korea/France
SHALE WAGMAN
Opéra National de Paris (prev. with Bayerisches Staatsballett)
Canada/Germany/France
MICHELA LUCENTI
Civil Ballet – Italy
REBECCA WHITE
Rome Opera House – Italy
MARTINA ARDUINO and MARCO AGOSTINO
Ballet Company of the Teatro alla Scala – Italy
TOMAS RUAO
The Royal Swedish Ballet
Portugal/Sweden
PALOMA LIVELLARA
American Ballet, ABT SC
Argentina/USA
