Meaning: The quote "A lot of the people who have come to know the company in the last few years will not have seen this piece" by Matthew Bourne, a renowned dancer, choreographer, and director, holds significance in the context of the performing arts industry. Matthew Bourne is widely recognized for his innovative and boundary-pushing work in the world of dance and theater. This particular quote reflects the transient and evolving nature of the performing arts, where new audiences may not have experienced or been exposed to the earlier works and pieces that have contributed to the legacy of a company or artist.

Matthew Bourne is known for his reimagining of classic ballets and creating contemporary dance productions that challenge traditional norms and expectations. His quote may refer to a specific piece or production that was significant in the history of a company or in his own career, highlighting the idea that as time progresses, newer audiences may not have witnessed or been familiar with the earlier works that have shaped the trajectory of a company or artist.

In the context of dance and theater, each piece and production contributes to the artistic journey and growth of a company or artist. As new works are created and introduced to audiences, older pieces may not receive the same level of attention or exposure, especially among those who have only recently become acquainted with the company or artist's work. This phenomenon underscores the dynamic nature of the performing arts, where works are often transient and subject to the passage of time and changing audience demographics.

Furthermore, the quote may also allude to the idea of legacy and the preservation of artistic heritage. In the performing arts, certain iconic works or productions hold historical and cultural significance, contributing to the legacy of a company or artist. However, as new audiences emerge and artistic tastes evolve, there is a risk that these earlier pieces may fade from the collective memory of the public. Matthew Bourne's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and revisiting the foundational works that have paved the way for the current state of the performing arts, ensuring that they are not overlooked or forgotten in the midst of new creative endeavors.

Additionally, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the cyclical nature of artistic appreciation. As newer audiences engage with contemporary works, there is a potential disconnect from the historical context and evolution of a company or artist. This disconnect may lead to a lack of understanding of the artistic progression and the journey that has led to the present moment. Matthew Bourne's quote prompts reflection on the need to bridge this gap and provide opportunities for audiences to explore and appreciate the full spectrum of a company or artist's repertoire, including the pieces that have laid the foundation for their current acclaim and success.

In conclusion, Matthew Bourne's quote encapsulates the notion of continuity and change within the performing arts, highlighting the evolving relationship between audiences and the body of work created by a company or artist. It emphasizes the importance of preserving and revisiting earlier pieces to maintain a comprehensive understanding of the artistic journey and legacy. Ultimately, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of artistic appreciation and the need to ensure that the depth and breadth of creative output are recognized and celebrated by both new and established audiences.