Farooq Chaudhry, a renowned dance producer, has played a significant role in shaping the British dance scene. Born in Pakistan and raised in London, Chaudhry embarked on his dance career in the 1980s and later pursued an MA in Arts Management from City University.
In 2000, Chaudhry joined forces with artist Akram Khan to establish the internationally acclaimed Akram Khan Company. Through his visionary leadership style, Chaudhry prioritised creativity and developed innovative business models to support Khan’s artistic aspirations.
Chaudhry’s deep passion for the arts, strong business acumen, and genuine desire to connect with communities worldwide led him to serve as a creative producer for various international artists and organizations. Notable collaborations include the English National Ballet and iconic Chinese choreographer Yang Liping, where Chaudhry significantly enhanced their global status and reputation.
As a producer, Chaudhry has made a lasting impact on the global artistic community. Moreover, he has also contributed as an educator, sharing his expertise through consulting, mentoring, and lecturing at esteemed institutions such as London Studio Centre, Goldsmiths University, and the London Business School.
After two decades of challenging conventions, Chaudhry has earned recognition as a global cultural leader. His remarkable contributions were honored with an honorary doctorate from De Montfort University and Goldsmiths University. Additionally, he served as a Tate Trustee from 2019 to 2023 and received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) for his outstanding work in promoting diverse talent in the dance industry.
In 2021, Farooq Chaudhry founded Feng Ling Productions, a company fueled by a profound curiosity for Chinese and East Asian artists, narratives and aesthetics. The goal is to produce significant international collaborations in dance, music, and theatre. The company’s vision is to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary worlds, presenting works that exude integrity, grace, and inventiveness.