In the “snail-paced, under-funded world of dance”, the launch of the new Place dance prize choreographic competition has been big news. It was originally the brainchild of John Ashford, director of the Place in London, who for years has been plotting to organise a high-profile prize for the art form. It wasn’t just the cash he was after – ‘though dance is still the Cinderella art form and always needs new money’ – but the recognition.”