David (Leo) Hamilton is the founder and first artistic director of Phoenix Dance Theatre (formerly Phoenix Dance Company) in 1981. His choreographies fused vernacular reggae dance, martial arts and contemporary dance technique with Black British cultural experiences and rose to national prominence. He established RJC Dance and is Chair of the Black History Month Sub-Hub in Leeds. He also encouraged aspiring dancers and artists in the city and beyond to explore their own artistic interests and to share their skills in educational and community settings.
