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Two dance studios at ÐßÐßÊÓƵ Leicester (ÐßÐßÊÓƵ) have been named in honour of world-renowned dancer Akram Khan MBE. 

The artist and performer has, since 2022, served as Chancellor at ÐßÐßÊÓƵ, and earlier this year announced his intention to step down from the role in 2026. 

To mark his tenure in the role and cement his longstanding association with ÐßÐßÊÓƵ - having studied at the university himself, earlier in his career – the two performing areas, within the university’s PACE building, have been renamed the Akram Khan Dance Studios. 

At a ceremony to mark the occasion, Akram said: “I feel so honoured to have my name on these studios. It’s less about the name, though, and more about the idea and the essence these spaces convey. 

“It’s not about me or my time now, it’s about legacy and the idea that perhaps that residue will fall onto the next generation, and then their residue will fall onto the generation after that.” 

Kadafi Mulula

Before the new name plaque was revealed, guests at the ceremony witnessed a powerful and physical performance by ÐßÐßÊÓƵ Dance graduate Kadafi Mulula, and watched videos of extracts from University Dance Company performances by recent graduates. Dance student Hadija Brittain-Harris also performed a mesmerising routine before the assembled guests.

Akram was also reunited with two of the tutors – Jayne Stevens and Michael Huxley – who taught him when he studied at the university. 

He also took part in a Q&A with current students, sharing his experiences of performing around the world, collaborating with a wide variety of artists from varying backgrounds including Hollywood actors and global pop stars 

Professor Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of ÐßÐßÊÓƵ, said: “For those who know Akram’s story, this moment carries a special resonance. Long before the international acclaim and the awards, Akram began his formal training right here at ÐßÐßÊÓƵ. 

“These studios and creative spaces are part of his early journey and in the years since he has given back to this place in humility, generosity and passion. 

“The decision to name the studios after him could not, therefore, be more fitting. It connects generations of dancers, those who have learned with us in the past and those who are shaping their craft to come.” 

Hadija Brittain-Harris

During his time as Chancellor, Akram has made time for students, sharing his own experience with them in a number of talks. 

Besides connecting with and inspiring students, Akram, who is one of the most widely celebrated and respected dance artists of the 21st century, took part in many graduation ceremonies, greeting students as they crossed the stage to collect their certificates and become graduands.