English National Ballet School has appointed of Italian-born Viviana Durante, who has enjoyed a distinguished career as principal dancer of The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Teatro alla Scala and K-Ballet, as its new Director of Dance for the 2019/2020 academic year.
Founded in 1988, English National Ballet School now has close to 100 students from 12 countries. As Director of Dance, Durante will oversee the classical and contemporary syllabus of dance and have a creative input into the students' development throughout the academic year.
Durante said, "ENBS has a proud tradition of excellence and achievement on which to continue building. Standards are very high, and we expect a great deal from our talented students. In turn we owe them the best possible training, pastoral care and career opportunities to enable them to realise their full potential. A dancer’s career has many challenges as well as many rewards, and it can take many paths. I am passionate about treating each student as an individual and creating a secure, positive and supportive environment in which all can flourish as intelligent artists and rounded young people."
Steve Sacks, Chairman of ENBS, said of Durante, "her deep knowledge of ballet and standing in the ballet world will be a tremendous addition to the school and to the students. We are excited that she will be joining us as we move to our new home in London City Island."
Once ENBS is settled into its new home this autumn, recruitment will continue to fill the role and others on a more permanent basis.