NEWS
Royal Ballet School Artistic Director Christopher Powney to step down after a decade at the helm
Christopher Powney intends to leave his role as Artistic Director in July when his second five-year term in the position comes to an end.
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‘It has been my honour and pleasure to return to The Royal Ballet School as its Artistic Director for the last ten years,’ said Mr Powney.
‘It has been incredible, and I feel so fortunate to have worked with so many talented young dancers who have gone on to enjoy exceptional careers. They have consistently inspired me. Additionally, I have been privileged to work alongside a team of immensely dedicated colleagues. I wish to thank them for sharing my curiosity and drive, leading us to collectively elevate and progress our training culture.’
‘However, I believe now is the right time for me to hand over to someone who will build on what has been achieved during my tenure and bring in fresh ideas to ensure the School remains at the forefront of international ballet training. I want to wish The Royal Ballet School, its Governors, staff and students every success for its exciting future.’
During his ten years at The Royal Ballet School, Christopher has overseen the introduction of more than 40 initiatives designed to enhance the School’s student experience. These range from the world leading Healthy Dancer programme to greater mental health support for students, significantly expanding the teaching and intensive course programmes, broadening access and developing key partnerships with the global dance community.
Christopher's steadfast leadership throughout the COVID-19 years and subsequent lockdowns was instrumental in navigating the School through one of the most profound and unprecedented challenging periods in its history.
He has also played a key role in cementing the School’s position as a world leader in nurturing dance talent. Since last year, Christopher has combined his role as Artistic Director with that of Royal Ballet School CEO, as well as continuing to represent the School internationally.
Chair of Governors, Christopher Rodrigues CBE, said: ‘Chris has done an extraordinary job over the last ten years. We thank him for his immense input, his experience and wisdom. There is no doubt that he has helped secure The Royal Ballet School’s place on the world stage and has been at the forefront of driving innovation and transforming the student experience, which has changed beyond recognition in the last decade.’
The Governors will now consider the next steps in terms of finding a successor to Mr Powney.
