The Royal Ballet School has announced a landmark series of public events to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Throughout March 2026, the School will host three comprehensive "Insight Days," inviting the public to explore the evolution of one of the world’s most prestigious dance institutions.
Held at the historic White Lodge in Richmond and the Upper School in Covent Garden, the series marks a century since Dame Ninette de Valois founded the Academy of Choreographic Art. The programme is designed to bridge the School’s storied past with its modern innovations and future aspirations.
A Journey Through Time
Each day offers a deep dive into a specific era of the School's history:
8 March: Our Past (White Lodge) – A look at the founding ethos of de Valois. Highlights include students performing a recreation of her work, The Arts of the Theatre.
15 March: Our Present (Covent Garden) – An examination of current pedagogical shifts, titled Shaping Change: Innovation and Evolution in Ballet Training.
22 March: Our Future (Covent Garden) – A forward-looking session featuring new choreography by Dr Adesola Akinleye, created specifically for the centenary.
Expert Perspectives and Global Access
Artistic Director Iain Mackay and Manager of Special Collections Dr Anna Meadmore will lead a distinguished line-up of speakers, including dance critic Sarah Crompton, Professor Susan Jones, and the School’s dedicated healthcare team. Attendees will experience live student performances, scripted archival readings, and chaired panel discussions.
"True to [de Valois'] spirit as a progressive thinker, I hope the series will encourage new public dialogues," said Dr Meadmore. "We are revisiting the century-long arc of the School's history while looking forward to our future."
Booking Information
To ensure the celebrations are accessible to the global dance community, the School is offering a hybrid attendance model.
In-person tickets: £60 per day.
Online access: £15 per day.
Bookings open on Wednesday 4 February 2026. For more details, visit the official centenary hub at royalballetschool.org.uk.
