Her Majesty The Queen Visits English National Ballet

On Thursday 5 September 2024, Her Majesty The Queen visited English National Ballet at their east London home, the Mulryan Centre for Dance. This marked The Queen’s first official visit to English National Ballet since becoming Royal Patron earlier this year.

On arrival at the Mulryan Centre for Dance, Her Majesty was met by Sir Rupert Gavin (Chair, English National Ballet) and Aaron S. Watkin (Artistic Director, English National Ballet).

Aaron S Watkin, said: “It was an honour to have our Royal Patron, Her Majesty The Queen, visit us today. Our dancers and staff were delighted to meet Her Majesty and it was a joy to be able to share a day in the life of English National Ballet as we prepare for our 75th Season. We look forward to this exciting new chapter for the organisation with Her Majesty’s support.”

The Queen watched rehearsals of English National Ballet’s new Nutcracker and Akram Khan’s reimagined version of Giselle which the Company will perform later this month. Her Majesty then observed ENBEldersCo, the Company’s performance group for over 55’s, in rehearsal, before proceeding to the CHANEL Costume Atelier, where costumes for English National Ballet are made. The Queen met atelier staff and observed some of the work being undertaken.

Finally, The Queen joined a reception in the Holloway Production Studio with the Company’s staff and dancers.

For the latest English National Ballet news, visit ballet.org.uk

Her Majesty The Queen visits English National Ballet, September 2024, Photography by ASH