Amsterdam / Fossacesia (Italy), October 6, 2025 – Choreographer and artistic director Emio Greco of ICK Dans Amsterdam was awarded the “Premio Internazionale Adriatico – Un mare che unisce” (International Adriatic Prize – A sea that unites) in Fossacesia (Italy) on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

The prestigious award, now in its seventh edition, is presented annually to leading figures from the seven Italian regions bordering the Adriatic Sea as well as from countries on the opposite shore. Initiated by art critic and cultural promoter Massimo Pasqualone, the award aims to strengthen cultural ties and highlight excellence across the Adriatic region.

Greco received the prize in the Dance category in recognition of his significant contribution to contemporary dance in Italy, the Netherlands, and internationally. Together with Pieter C. Scholten, he forms the artistic leadership of ICK Dans Amsterdam, which in 2025 celebrates both their 30-year artistic partnership and the 15th anniversary of ICK with internationally acclaimed productions and talent development programs.

The Apulian selection committee, chaired by Elisabetta Grilli, praised Greco’s “talent, dedication, and ability to push artistic boundaries through dance while inspiring generations of dancers and audiences.”

Other awardees included photographer Pasquale D’Apolito, actress Anna Rita Caracciolo, entrepreneur Barbara Prencipe, and Olympic fencer Martina Criscio.

The festive ceremony took place at the Teatro Comunale “Nino Saraceni” in Fossacesia (Chieti province), in the presence of representatives from culture, politics, and diplomacy.