New Zealand dancer Rebecca Bassett-Graham nominated for two National Dance Awards

New Zealand dancer Rebecca Bassett-Graham has secured two major nominations at the 26th National Dance Awards, presented by The Critics' Circle.

Bassett-Graham, who performs with Company Wayne McGregor, has been shortlisted in the categories of Best Female Dancer and Outstanding Female Modern Performance for her role in Deepstaria.

The awards recognise standout achievements across ballet, contemporary dance and performance presented in the UK during 2025.

Created by acclaimed British choreographer Wayne McGregor, Deepstaria is an ambitious contemporary dance work inspired by the mysterious deep-sea jellyfish of the same name. Developed for Company Wayne McGregor, the production combines choreography, sound design, AI technology and immersive staging. Bassett-Graham was part of the original ensemble cast for the production.

The National Dance Awards are considered among the UK dance sector’s most prestigious honours and are voted on by professional dance critics from across the country. Previous nominees and winners have included leading figures from The Royal Ballet, Sadler’s Wells and major international dance companies.

The 2026 winners will be announced at a live ceremony held at The Coronet Theatre on Monday 15 June.