Kevin O’Hare CBE

Kevin O’Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet, joined The Royal Ballet School’s Board of Governors in November 2012.

Kevin was born in Yorkshire and joined The Royal Ballet School at the age of 11. On graduating he joined Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet (now Birmingham Royal Ballet) and was promoted to Principal in 1990. Kevin performed extensively in the UK and internationally, including as a guest artist with many prestigious companies. He danced leading classical roles in the repertoire as well as created many new roles.

Kevin retired from the stage in 2000, entering into a traineeship in company management with the Royal Shakespeare Company. This led to the post of Company Manager with Birmingham Royal Ballet in 2001, and in 2004 he joined The Royal Ballet as Company Manager. He was made Administrative Director in 2009 before being appointed to his current role.

Under his directorship, the Company has been distinguished with numerous honours including the Olivier Awards, Benois de la Danse and Critics’ Circle National Dance Awards. His collaborative approach to the industry is demonstrated in such initiatives as World Ballet Day and the 2017 MacMillan celebrations.

He has been instrumental in creating new and diverse work for The Royal Ballet whilst honouring its heritage. He is passionate about supporting and inspiring the next generation – be it as a dancer or as an audience member. During his time as Director, Kevin has been committed to strengthening the links between the School and the Company.

He is also on the board of Roundhouse and is a Trustee of the Frederick Ashton Foundation and Patron of the Ballet Association, The Cecchetti Society Trust and Fallen Angels Dance Theatre. In July 2014, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Hull and awarded a CBE in 2018.