By Preston Lee
In a groundbreaking move that extends its reach far beyond its London base, The Royal Ballet School has launched Intensive Courses on Demand, a digital initiative that brings world-class ballet instruction to aspiring dancers worldwide. This pioneering online platform offers young dancers aged seven and up the opportunity to hone their skills under the guidance of expert teachers from one of the globe’s most prestigious dance institutions.
The Royal Ballet School, renowned for producing exceptional performers like Francesca Hayward and Marcelino Sambé, has long been at the forefront of classical ballet education. With the introduction of Intensive Courses on Demand, the School continues its tradition of innovation, making its top-tier training accessible to a broader audience than ever before.
The genesis of this digital expansion can be traced back to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with the need to deliver high-quality instruction remotely to full-time students, The Royal Ballet School swiftly developed its digital infrastructure. This adaptation ensured continuity for its enrolled students. It revealed the immense potential of online offerings to reach a global audience of dance enthusiasts.
Building on this momentum, The Royal Ballet School launched several digital initiatives, including the Affiliate Training and Assessment Programme for Recreational Dance and Primary Steps on Demand for Primary Schools. These successful ventures established the School as a leader in digital dance education, paving the way for the creation of Intensive Courses on Demand.
Launched in October 2022, Intensive Courses on Demand has rapidly expanded its offerings over the past 18 months. The platform now boasts 40 classes and informative talks, catering to four developmental age groups that mirror the School’s full-time training programs: 7+, 11+, 14+, and 16+.
The curriculum is diverse and comprehensive, featuring classical ballet classes, focused sessions on specific elements of technique, character and contemporary classes, and Pilates instruction. Additionally, the platform provides unique insights into the audition process for the School’s full-time training and Junior Associate programs.
One of the critical strengths of Intensive Courses on Demand lies in its teaching staff. Classes are led by accomplished Royal Ballet School instructors, including Artistic Director Christopher Powney and a roster of former professional dancers now on the School’s faculty. This ensures that online students benefit from the same expertise that has made The Royal Ballet School a global leader in dance education.
While the classes complement existing training rather than serve as an introduction to ballet, they offer valuable opportunities for students to refine their technique, explore different teaching styles, and broaden their artistic horizons. The platform’s flexibility allows young dancers to continue training during breaks or supplement their regular instruction, enhancing their adaptability and versatility.
Accessibility is a core principle of Intensive Courses on Demand. With individual classes priced from £10 and informational talks at £5, The Royal Ballet School has made high-quality instruction available at an affordable price point. Users gain lifetime access to purchased content, which can be viewed on any device. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, curated Intensive Courses are available starting at £50, offering a well-rounded selection of classes at a discounted rate.
The impact of Intensive Courses on Demand has been significant and far-reaching. In just over a year since its launch, the platform has attracted over 1,000 young dancers from 64 countries across six continents. Users have purchased over 3,000 classes and courses, benefiting from the combined expertise of 22 expert staff members with more than 450 years of collective experience.
As The Royal Ballet School approaches its centenary, Intensive Courses on Demand is a testament to the institution’s commitment to innovation and accessibility in dance education. By bridging geographical barriers and making world-class instruction available at the click of a button, The Royal Ballet School is nurturing the next generation of dancers globally.
The success of this digital initiative not only enhances The Royal Ballet School’s reputation as a leader in dance education but also aligns with its broader mission to promote the benefits of dance and expand access to classical ballet training. As the platform continues to evolve and grow, it promises to play a crucial role in shaping the future of dance education, ensuring that talent and passion can flourish regardless of physical location.
