Peering Behind the Curtain: Photographing Bill Deamer at Home

For my At Home series, I aim to capture the essence of my subjects—their passions, quirks, and what makes them tick. Shooting them in their home often reveals hidden layers, surrounded by objects that speak to their personal history. With Bill Deamer, one of Britain’s most celebrated choreographers, things turned out a bit differently.

If you didn’t know, Bill’s a legend in the world of dance, with a career spanning West End and beyond. From Olivier Award-winning choreography in Top Hat to his work on Strictly Come Dancing and acclaimed productions like Follies and CATS, Bill’s made an indelible mark on theatre and TV. Yet, stepping into his home, you'd hardly know it. The only hint of his legacy is a modestly placed Olivier Award on the mantle. Bill’s humility meant that the setting didn’t scream “choreographer”; instead, it spoke of a man who lets his work speak for itself.

Bill Deamer's signature pose

When I first photographed Bill, I had some wonderful shots of him, but something felt incomplete. I had a sense of Bill himself, but not the “choreographer.” Luckily, I left my glasses behind, giving me the perfect excuse to call back. Bill, ever the gracious host, invited me in again and was game to try something different. This time, we set up a night shoot from his garden, with Bill framed by the patio doors in his signature pose—as he worked on a routine for Strictly. I set up a couple of flash lights and let Bill do his thing.

The resulting shot is one I’m particularly pleased with. It finally captures not just Bill, but the award-winning Bill Deamer in his home.

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