Angela Rippon CBE visits The Royal Ballet School to launch nationwide Let's Dance initiative

A first in its near 100-year history, The Royal Ballet School will open its doors in Covent Garden to the public on Sunday 2 March as part of the UK’s inaugural Let’s Dance event.

Led by Angela Rippon CBE, Let’s Dance is a new national campaign born out of a simple idea – that dance has the power to transform lives. The one-day event is designed to get the country moving and promote the physical, mental, and social benefits of dance through classes, workshops, and community events. 

Supported by leading organisations including the Sport and Recreation Alliance, the NHS, and Parkinson’s UK, the campaign aims to engage as many people as possible, regardless of age, fitness level, or experience, with a particular focus on those who might not typically have the chance to experience dance.

On a mission to inspire everyone in the UK to embrace dance as a way to improve their health, connect with others, and have fun, Ms Rippon has called upon dance organisations, charities, community groups and celebrities to come together on the first Sunday in March with one objective – to get more people dancing. 

The Royal Ballet School’s open day will feature a variety of classes in styles such as ballet, contemporary, character, and mime and gesture. The classes will be led by Royal Ballet School teachers, including the School’s Artistic Director Iain Mackay.

There will be five class timeslots starting on the hour from 11.00 to 16.00 and running for 30-40 minutes in duration. The classes are free and accessible to everyone, no dance experience required.

While visiting the School, Angela Rippon shared her motivation for initiating the campaign and her excitement for the day:

‘Following my time on Strictly Come Dancing, I thought “how can we all come together and do something that demonstrates to the nation that dance is not just something that you watch for entertainment?” I want to get the nation dancing. I want to show the public that dance is one of the best, if not the best, forms of exercise for your mind and body, and one that you can enjoy – it ticks every single box.

I can't wait to see it all come together and to know that all over the country, in addition to the thousands of people who already dance, that many thousands more may be introduced to dance. I am thrilled that people will be able to come into The Royal Ballet School and feel the inspiration and passion from dancing in these iconic studios. I invite the public to dance like no one's watching. Give it a go. Do it for you. Enjoy it. And feel fitter and healthier.’

The Royal Ballet School’s Artistic Director, Iain Mackay added his enthusiasm for the event:

‘At The Royal Ballet School, we are passionate about widening access and encouraging participation in ballet, so we are very excited to be a part of the first Let’s Dance campaign to celebrate the joy of shared movement. We welcome anyone and everyone to come along on Sunday 2 March, no matter your age or ability. If you’ve never danced before but have always wanted to give it a go, we would love to welcome you into our studios and share the magic of our artform.’

Bookings are now open. Visit https://www.royalballetschool.org.uk/lets-dance/ to book your preferred timeslot and for more information.