about us
SET UP BY A GROUP OF BALLET ENTHUSIASTS nearly forty years ago, we give active support to the Royal Ballet companies and promote interest in all aspects of their work. United in affection for the Royal Ballet, members combine both a rich collective memory and a keen interest in new work.
CLICK HERE for details of our Patron, Presidents, Officers and Committee Members.
CLICK HERE to see our Constitution.
What do we do?
We hold regular meetings at which dancers and other Royal Ballet staff talk about their careers and interests in an informal interview structure, with plenty of opportunity for the audience to ask questions. Meetings also provide an opportunity to share knowledge and exchange often highly contrasted views.
Who comes to speak?
In recent years, we’ve welcomed many speakers, from Principal stars such as Alina Cojocaru, Carlos Acosta, Leanne Benjamin, Johan Kobborg, Roberto Bolle and Tamara Rojo to up-and-coming artists like Yuhui Choe and Sergei Polunin, and illustrious ex-dancers such as Dame Beryl Grey, Dame Monica Mason and Deborah Bull.
Where and when are the meetings?
Meetings are usually held at the Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church in Shaftesbury Avenue WC1, at least once a month throughout the year - but never on a ballet night!
What else is there?
We hold an annual dinner at which many members of the Company are our guests. There are also opportunities for informal meetings with members at performances.
We recognise service to the Company through leaving and retirement gifts to dancers and sometimes organise flower throws at the Opera House to mark extra special occasions.
We make donations to specific appeals such as the Royal Ballet School Development and the Royal Ballet 75th Anniversary Appeal. In consultation with management we also modestly assist Company activities and give awards to Royal Ballet School students from Ballet Association funds.
How do I keep in touch?
We send out a regular newsletter by email or post. Reports on meetings are published on this website. Enquiries should be addressed to info@balletassociation.co.uk
How much does it cost?
Full membership is £15 for the year from October through to September, £22.50 for two people living at the same address. The concessionary rate* is £7 for the year.
Meeting entry costs £4, £3 for concessions* and £8 for guests.
* the concessionary rate applies to under 16s and students, over 60s, the registered disabled and the registered unemployed.]
