Steve Hanson, a brilliant photographer

Many followers of Northern Ballet will be familiar with the work of Steve Hanson who created our publicity images over many years. We were all devastated to learn the sad news that Steve had died following a long illness.

Steve made such an important contribution to Northern Ballet's visual identity but for anyone who was lucky enough to work with him he will be remembered as a genuinely great person who was a pleasure to work with. His photography for Northern Ballet was widely admired and emulated. We're creating a tribute to Steve using some of his images as well as collecting some memories of Steve and our work with him.  

Steve moved to Holy Island in August 2009 and spent the last 18 months of his life in Seahouse's on the Northumberland Coast due to his illness. One of Steve's final projects was a photographic study of british lido's in the 21st Century, The Eleventh hour. Little did he know he was indeed in his own Eleventh hour.

If you were moved by Steve's images then we would encourage you to make a donation to Holy Island Town Hall.

If you would like to share your thoughts about Steve and his images then please email us at and we'll add them to our tribute. Let us know your favourite image and why.

For me, I'll remember that he was easy going, always up for trying anything and a true artist. He'll be sadly missed and all our thoughts are with his family and friends.

Phoenix Dance Theatre have posted a number of their Steve Hanson photography on Flickr.