Men at the barre at the online summer intensive

Online Summer Intensive 2020: your response

 

This July, The Royal Ballet School hosted its first ever Online Summer Intensive, in response to the closure of the School buildings during the Covid-19 pandemic. A total of 1813 students from all over the world attended the virtual classes taught by The Royal Ballet School Artistic team from our beautiful White Lodge studios, and also taught by Iain Mackay, Artistic Director of the Yorkshire Ballet Seminars (YBS), a former student of the School and Principal dancer with Birmingham Royal Ballet.

As well as masterclasses, private group classes, contemporary classes, mime classes and more, the three-week timetable include a programme of free interviews and talks by guests including alumni such as Dame Darcey Bussell CBE, Francesca Hayward, Marianela Núñez, Steven McRae, Brandon Lawrence, other dancers past and present from The Royal Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet, and experts in their field, covering a wide range of topics exploring ‘all things dance’ to help expand the attendees’ knowledge.

We asked how the attendees found it:

‘The class timetable was very well planned and meant there was something different to choose from each day’

‘Being given tips and advice on refining technique and being able to take part in live daily ballet classes was challenging but fun.’

‘It was great to know that the teachers were watching me and giving me specific feedback.’

‘The interviews gave a real insight into the lives and training of so many incredible professional dancers.’

‘What a lovely atmosphere being at home yet being taught by such professionals. It was truly an amazing opportunity.’

‘I gained security in myself. In every single class they remind you that everyone is different and that you don’t have to compare yourself.’

‘The teaching was excellent and I really enjoyed the classes and loved the opportunity to listen to both general corrections in masterclasses and personal corrections in private classes.’

‘Through the Pilates classes, I gained a better understanding of how to use the correct muscles for dancing.’

‘I feel so lucky to have been taught by some of the best teachers in the world and accompanied by beautiful music played by the lovely pianists.’

‘I really enjoyed the Online Summer Intensive because the teachers really explain the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of ballet technique. I feel like I have improved in just three weeks of classes. I can’t wait to apply everything I’ve learnt to my regular ballet training.’

Find out more about our Intensive Courses

Online Summer Intensive 2020:

Online summer intensive 2020