Summer Fair 2024
One of the most anticipated events of the School year, we held our annual Summer Fair on Saturday 15 June. It was a day brimming with activities, performances, and fun.
Nestled in the heart of Richmond Park, our historic White Lodge grounds are usually closed to the public. The Summer Fair is one of the rare occasions when we open them up, inviting our supporters, friends and the general public to explore the rich history of the building and the School.
School alumnus and First Soloist of The Royal Ballet, Joseph Sissens, was our special guest. After training at the School, Joseph joined The Royal Ballet in 2016 and was promoted to First Soloist in 2022.
From photoshoots with the Margot Fonteyn statue, to a silent auction offering a backstage tour of the Royal Opera House and a Royal Ballet rehearsal viewing with Kevin O’Hare, to fairground games, there was something for everyone.
Royal Ballet School students from Years 7 to 11 performed throughout the day. Despite the unpredictable weather forcing the performances indoors to the Margot Fonteyn Theatre, the students shone brightly. They showcased pieces from our upcoming Summer Performances, including student choreography. Highlights included the mazurka from Paquita by Years 8 and 9, a theatrical rendition of Bruce from Matilda by Year 7, and a sneak peek into TooT by Didy Veldman from Year 10.
The fair was a tremendous success, raising a record-breaking profit of £24,000. The PTA works tirelessly throughout the year to support our students’ education, training, and well-being. We are grateful for their hard work and efforts, which make such spectacular fairs possible each year. Marina, Chair of the PTA, shared her thoughts on the day:
Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who came to the fair, not just the parents and families of Royal Ballet School students but also our much broader supportive community from Richmond and beyond.
The day wasn’t without its challenges—in the history of the Royal Ballet School Summer Fair, it has only ever rained twice, but this time, it poured! However, days like last Saturday test the ability of people to come together to beat the odds, and I truly felt a part of one big community of parents, staff, and visitors. Nobody abandoned ship; everyone ‘mucked in.’ Our visitors perused the artisan and food stalls, and everyone kept smiling!
Despite the weather, we managed to exceed last year’s overall takings which was itself a record.
With the funds raised, we are looking forward to supporting a lot more worthy causes for the benefit of all the Royal Ballet School students.
We hope to welcome you all next year!
A huge thank you to our PTA, staff, students, and all involved in making the day a huge success.
