Above: Eleanor, a talented ballet performer, demonstrates her skills.
Eleanor Welsh, aged 12, has successfully confirmed her place in the Royal Ballet School’s Mid-Associate programme as she enters Year 8 of schooling. The programme, which aims to train the highest standard dancers from the UK and around the world for future careers in classical ballet, sees hundreds of applicants each year.
The talented Ponteland-based dancer, who also trained with the Royal Ballet as a Junior Associate, was delighted to secure her spot in the prestigious Mid-Associate programme. Hardworking Eleanor will tackle specialised ballet training alongside her schoolwork and regular dance classes.
Eleanor has long been a passionate dancer. She began ballet aged three, and has now branched out into many styles of dance, including tap, modern, lyrical, contemporary and musical theatre.
She said: “Even though I have trained with the Royal Ballet School since Year 5, spaces in the more advanced programmes are not guaranteed, so I feel very fortunate to have received a place in the Mid-Associate programme. I am excited to learn new things and continue progressing with my ballet technique.”
Embracing her talents, Eleanor successfully auditioned for one of Dame Allan’s dance companies, Jeune. Within the company, she will have the opportunity to perform in competitions, as well as at high-profile local and school events.
Above: Eleanor Welsh (Image credit: Paul Appleby Photography)
Mrs Turnbull, Head of Dance at Dame Allan’s Schools said: “At Dame Allan’s, dance is an integral part of school life both inside and outside the curriculum, and we love to see our students throwing themselves into dance training and performance. Eleanor’s remarkable hard work and talent has set her in good stead with her Mid-Associate programme, and we know she will be a huge asset to Jeune.”
Dancers with the Royal Ballet School Mid-Associate programme can expect to attend a rehearsal or workshop at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, and may also be asked to take part in professional productions from The Royal Ballet, or visiting companies such as the Birmingham Royal Ballet.