The Royal Academy of Dance's annual flagship event, The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, comes to London 22–29 October 2023 for the first live, in-person Fonteyn competition since the pandemic.
Beginning in 1931 and offering a launchpad for a professional career, The Fonteyn offers aspiring dancers the opportunity to work with world-renowned choreographers and professionals, as well as to perform on an international stage.
More than 80 dancers will participate in this year’s competition. Coaching sessions begin the week, with the semi-finals held at RAD’s Aud Jebson Studio Theatre in its London HQ.
His Majesty’s Theatre Haymarket will host the grand final on 29 October. All candidates will perform a newly choreographed piece created by Guest Choreographer Valentino Zucchetti, First Soloist with The Royal Ballet.
The finalists will perform in front of a judging panel comprising Dame Darcey Bussell, Aaron Watkin Artistic Director of English National Ballet and Amanda Britton, Chief Executive, Principal and Artistic Director of Rambert School.
In addition to the medals and cash prizes, all candidates will have the opportunity to be considered for a variety of tuition scholarship opportunities. During the competition week wraparound events will be taking place at the RAD for visitors, RAD teachers and dance lovers.