23/02/2026
🗞️🗞️ PRESS RELEASE 🎭🗞️🩰
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23 February 2026
Kaho Yanagisawa appointed new Artistic Director of Stockholm 59°North – a new era for one of Sweden’s most distinctive ballet companies
The ballet company Stockholm 59°North has appointed a new Artistic Director. From 1 March 2026, Kaho Yanagisawa, currently a soloist dancer with the Royal Swedish Ballet, will take up the position. She succeeds Nadja Sellrup, who after eight years is stepping down having shaped and guided the company in a clear artistic direction.
Kaho Yanagisawa has enjoyed a long international career and for several years has been an established dancer with the Royal Swedish Opera, where she has performed in a large part of the repertoire – not least in works by Mats Ek.
– Stockholm 59°North is a company with both history and courage. There is a strong identity here, but also an openness to change. I look forward to working closely with the dancers and continuing to explore what dance can be today, and to positioning the company within contemporary choreographic contexts, says Kaho Yanagisawa.
A company with its own voice
Under Nadja Sellrup’s leadership, the company has deepened its artistic work and broadened its collaborations.
– Nadja has played a decisive role in the development of Stockholm 59°North. With great artistic integrity and perseverance, she has shaped the company into what it is today. We are deeply grateful for her contribution over these eight years, says Michael Persson Gripkow,
Chairman of the Board of Stockholm 59°North.
Nadja Sellrup comments on the handover:
– It feels both right and joyful to hand over to Kaho. She has a strong artistic voice, an international outlook and a genuine interest in how ballet can continue to evolve. I believe she is exactly the right person for the next chapter, says Nadja Sellrup.
• For press and interview requests
Kaho Yanagisawa is available for interviews.
• Contact:
Michael Persson Gripkow
Chairman of the Board, Stockholm 59°North
+46 (0)70 313 72 83
[email protected]
