The legendary American choreographer Twyla Tharp has been awarded the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Biennale Danza 2025. With a career spanning six decades, Tharp is celebrated for her groundbreaking contributions to dance, blending classical discipline with modern innovation across genres like tap, jazz, and neoclassical ballet. Brazilian performer and director Carolina Bianchi, known for her visceral explorations of the body, will receive the Silver Lion.
The awards, selected by artistic director Wayne McGregor, will be presented during the 19th International Festival of Contemporary Dance, held in Venice from July 17th to August 2nd, 2025. Tharp will open the festival with the European premiere of Diabelli and Slacktide, marking her company’s 60th anniversary. She will also mentor participants in the Biennale College, further cementing her legacy as one of the most influential choreographers of our time.
