Celebrating 10 years of Christopher Powney’s artistic directorship
On 19 September, staff, supporters, and friends gathered at The Royal Ballet School to celebrate the remarkable tenure of Christopher Powney, who served as Artistic Director of the School from 2014 to 2024. The event paid tribute to his decade of visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and passion for artistic excellence.
As artistic Director, Christopher played a pivotal role in shaping the School’s future. His leadership was marked by curiosity, drive, and integrity, all while staying deeply rooted in the School’s rich heritage. Under his guidance, the School not only preserved its artistic legacy but also pushed the boundaries of excellence, setting new standards for ballet training.
Christopher’s impact is most apparent in the transformation of the student experience. His initiatives include the world-leading Healthy Dancer programme, expanded mental health and nutritional support, a series of safeguarding measures, and innovative approaches to artistic teaching that foster a positive studio culture. Christopher’s focus on nurturing students to thrive has been both admirable and forward-thinking.
In addition, he oversaw the significant expansion of the School’s Training & Access programmes, broadening access to ballet education for more students and raising teaching standards across the sector. His steadfast leadership was instrumental in guiding the School through the COVID-19 pandemic and its recovery, one of the most challenging periods in its history.
Speeches were given by Chairman Anna Birkett, Kevin O’Hare, and David Gajadharsingh, Academic & Pastoral Principal of the School.
Chris gave a heartfelt speech reflecting on his time at the School and thanking staff, students, and supporters of the School.
A video was shown with speeches and best wishes from various colleagues and friends, including Carlos Acosta, Ernst Meisner, Sophie Allnatt, Lucy Waine and even one of Chris’s daughters.
Adding to the evening’s significance were stellar performances by students of The Royal Ballet School, with members of The Royal Ballet appearing by kind permission of Kevin O’Hare. The programme featured Entrance, choreographed by Sarah Kundi and performed by 2nd Year students, with music by Domenica Cardullo. This was followed by After the Rain, a duet by Christopher Wheeldon, performed by 2022 graduates Scarlett Harvey and Luc Foskett. The Raymonda Act III pas de deux, choreographed after Marius Petipa, was performed by Bethany Bartlett, 2023 graduate, and Martin Diaz 2022 graduate, and the evening concluded with a solo from Le Corsaire, performed by Daichi Ikarashi, 2020 graduate.
The celebration of Christopher Powney’s tenure was not only a farewell but also a reflection of his profound impact on the School. His decade of leadership has left an indelible mark, one that will continue to shape the institution’s future for years to come.
Take a look at some photos from the night:
