Marcos Morau, who was also honored with this title in 2023, thereby consolidates his role as a key figure in European contemporary dance. The prize, based on a critics’ poll, recognizes Morau’s ability to create complex and visionary stage worlds, where movement, image, and symbol interact with emotional intensity and narrative depth. His creations, marked by technical rigor and strong symbolism, transform each performance into an immersive experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of choreography. The award also underscores the innovative quality of his artistic practice, which continually seeks to renew forms of contemporary dance and to engage audiences and performers in shared experiences that are rich in imagination and precision. With this second award, Morau confirms his path as one of the most influential and visionary choreographers on the international scene.

Martin Schläpfer (production of “Pathétique” with the Vienna State Ballet) and Thomas Hauert (production of Rachmaninoff's Third Piano Concerto for the Dresden Frankfurt Dance Company) were also nominated for Choreographer of the Year. The Tanzkompanie St. Gallen is profiled in an article by Lilo Weber. Under the direction of Frank Fannar Pedersen and his artistic partner Javier Rodríguez Cobos, the ensemble presents innovative, cross-style and cross-disciplinary works. A remarkable approach.

The magazine “tanz” is a leading voice in the German-speaking dance world, and its publications often reflect trends and emerging protagonists of the European scene.

Further award winners and a detailed list of all critics' nominations can be found in the → printed version of the 2025 yearbook, in German.