Get to know Choreographer Dickson Mbi ahead of the London premiere of Twice-Born, from 6-8 March at Sadler’s Wells.

Dickson Mbi was born in Cameroon and grew up in London where he studied at Lewisham College and London Contemporary Dance School. He is a world-renowned dancer in the Hip Hop dance community and best known for his popping skills which is integral to the work that he creates today. Dickson has featured in multiple TV campaigns including BALMAIN X H&M (2016), AUDI E TRON (2014), and was the face for LUCOZADE REVIVE (2012). Over the course of his career, he has worked with award-winning artists such as Russell Maliphant, Boy Blue Entertainment, Robbie Williams, Corrine Bailey-Rae, Black Eyed Peas and choreographed the Leave A Trace music video for CHVRCHES. 

He is an award-winning choreographer and has been commissioned by several theatres, festivals and arts organisation. In 2018, Sadler’s Wells Theatre commissioned a documentary ‘Street to Stage’ about Dickson’s artistic journey for BBC4’s Danceworks series. Later that year, Sadler’s Wells commissioned him to create work for their elderly company – The Company of Elders. In the following year, Dickson was commissioned by BBC Young Dancer to create the winning choreography UNSTRUNG performed by Max Revell.   

As a leader in his community, Dickson focuses on fostering the future generations of dancers with his partner Brooke Milliner in their battle crews Prototype and FIYA HOUSE. As a choreographer, Dickson enjoys making works for other companies as well as presenting his own works under Dickson Mbi Company. 

Twice-Born is a groundbreaking Scottish Ballet commission. Celebrated for blending the physicality of hip-hop with the fluidity of contemporary dance.

Dickson draws inspiration from ancient parables to create an epic narrative, set in another world where matriarchal figures are sacrificed and reborn. He has also composed the dramatic, tender and emotive score for the work, recorded by some of the world’s finest musicians including soprano Lucy Crowe and percussionist Beibei Wang. The large ensemble of dancers move to Dickson’s music with breathtaking synchronicity, delivering an intense, awe-inspiring spectacle that has left audiences spellbound.

 Dickson has inspired and collaborated with our dancers to craft a piece that is deeply personal and universally powerful. His unique movement style and emotional depth promise a visceral, unforgettable experience. This Sadler’s Wells premiere marks a pivotal moment for the entire company.

Scottish Ballet’s Artistic Director/CEO Christopher Hampson

Dickson’s work is known for its emotional depth and technical brilliance, making him one of the most sought-after choreographers today.

Catch Twice-Born at London’s Sadler’s Wells from Thursday 6 – Saturday 8 March 2025

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