Rui Horta began his dance training at the age of 17 in the Ballet Gulbenkian. After a stay in New York and establishing himself in Lisbon, his work with the S.O.A.P Dance Theatre at the Mousonturm, which he founded, became an authoritative reference for European dance and was presented at the most important festivals and theatres worldwide. Since 2000 he has lived in Montemor-o-Novo in Portugal, where he founded an interdisciplinary research and residency centre, O Espaço do Tempo, dedicated to emerging artists and experimental works.
Rui Horta, who is also active as a lighting and stage designer and opera director is considered one of the most influential choreographers of his generation. In 1991, he founded the legendary dance company S.O.A.P. at the Mousonturm and has had a lasting influence on the Frankfurt dance scene.