Sean Dorsey (he/him) is the founder and Executive/Artistic Director of Fresh Meat Productions (FMP), a trans-led arts hub that invests in the creative expression and cultural leadership of trans, gender-nonconforming, and queer communities. Founded in 2002, FMP builds belonging, joy, and cultural power through the performing arts and access-centered care. FMP creates and commissions new work, presents performing arts programs, awards direct support to artists, provides artist services, conducts trans-supportive arts education, and advocates for intersectional trans/racial/disability justice in the arts. The organization uplifts trans and gender-nonconforming artists through year-round programs including the annual FRESH MEAT FESTIVAL and its resident dance company, Sean Dorsey Dance.
Sean is an Emmy award-winning choreographer, dancer, writer, educator, and activist. As a transgender, white, disabled/hard-of-hearing, and queer longtime social practice artist, Sean has toured his work to more than 35 cities across the US and abroad – and taught with his trans-positive dance pedagogy in more than 40 cities. Under Sean’s leadership, FMP has commissioned and presented the work of more than 750 Bay Area trans, gender non-conforming, and queer artists, directly paying these artists over $5 million. He says, “Over the last 25 years here, I have shattered countless glass ceilings in dance, the performing arts, and arts philanthropy—not only to help myself and my organization, but to blow open a hole big enough for my peers and for future generations to thrive.”
After 25 years (and counting!) leading FMP, Sean is ready for his sabbatical to provide deep rest, nourishment, and adventure. He shares, “At this time of intense attacks on trans people, artists, communities and organizations, the work I do has never been more vital, or more difficult. I need rest and recuperation if I am to successfully navigate these difficult times for myself, my organization, and for the hundreds of trans and queer artists and cultural workers who depend on my well-being.”