Celebrating our Chairman’s Circle

Last Wednesday 24 January, we welcomed some of those who have shown unwavering commitment to the School as part of our Chairman’s Circle event. The annual event celebrates a visionary community at the heart of The Royal Ballet School that supports young artists in achieving excellence and reaching their full potential.

Our supporters enable the School to nurture and train exceptionally gifted young dancers while advancing the art form and creating opportunities for young people, aspiring dancers and dance professionals to experience the magic of ballet.

We were delighted to welcome special guests, the Governors of The Royal Ballet School and The Royal Ballet, and artistic guests Dame Monica Mason and Baroness Deborah Bull to Upper School for the evening.

Winter Rose performance

White Lodge and Upper School students expressed their gratitude through their breathtaking artistry and technique, performing a bespoke collection of works.

In a nod to our heritage, guests were treated to Frederick Ashton’s Lise and Colas variations from La fille mal gardée and other excerpts from La Bayadère, La Sylphide and Swan Lake. Students showcased their breathtaking ability to perform modern works, including Robert Battle’s dynamic Ella, Mauro Bigonzetti’s emotive Cinque and Year 11 student Clovis Couillard’s On the Lake, a piece created for the Kenneth MacMillan Emerging Choreographer event.

Special guest Leanne Benjamin AM OBE

Our special guest for the evening was Leanne Benjamin AM OBE, alumna of the School and former Principal of The Royal Ballet.

Leanne was interviewed by Upper School ballet teacher Nicola Tranah and reflected candidly on her time training with The Royal Ballet School and performing with The Royal Ballet for a triumphant 21 years. As she embarks on a new chapter in Australia, Leanne shared her plans for her role as Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet and her vision for the Company.