THE FONTEYN International Ballet Competition to Return to London's West End

Royal Academy of Dance has announced that its flagship event, The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition is coming to London from 31 October - 8 November, with the grand final taking place at the London Coliseum in the heart of the West End.

Named after the RAD's longest serving president, Dame Margot Fonteyn, The Fonteyn (previously known as The Genée) is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet competitions in the world.

Since its beginnings in 1931, The Fonteyn recognises excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. A springboard for a professional career, with alumni including Steven McRae, Iain Mackay and Francesca Hayward, The Fonteyn offers aspiring dancers the unique opportunity to work with professionals and receive awards, as well as the chance to perform on an international stage.

This year, the competition returns to London with coaching sessions at RAD's headquarters in London. Over 80 candidates from 20 countries will be coached and mentored by leading industry professionals, with candidates then participating in the semi-finals for a chance to win a place at The Fonteyn final.

Esteemed figures from the ballet world and beyond will judge the competition including Leanne Cope, English ballet star and theatre actress, Dame Darcey Bussell, RAD President, Francesca Hayward, principal of The Royal Ballet and former Genée medalist and Kevin O'Hare, director of The Royal Ballet.

Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the RAD says: 'The Fonteyn offers a prestigious global platform for young dancers to connect, learn, and challenge themselves alongside peers from around the world. This year, we are delighted to welcome The Fonteyn back to London, where audiences will have the rare opportunity to witness the next generation of exceptional dance talent.'

Dame Darcey Bussell says: 'London is the most vibrant and exceptional city of the creative arts, what a perfect stage for exceptional young dancers to showcase their hard work and passion. To the dancers preparing for this incredible journey: cherish every single moment, support one another and let your unique artistry shine.'

Samantha Maestre Cortez, Genée Gold medalist at The Fonteyn 2025 in Sao Paulo, Brazil says: 'The Fonteyn was one of the best experiences I have ever had. Even though I was far from home, I felt as if I was surrounded by family. Throughout the week, I felt encouraged, welcomed and truly happy. Winning the Gold Medal felt like all my years of hard work and dedication had been recognised, and after the competition, I received an invitation from Julio Bocca to audition for Teatro Colón, where I am now proud to be part of the company.'

A key element of this year's competition is the partnership with The Frederick Ashton Foundation. Each candidate will learn an Ashton variation-with exclusive access to a film of the solo being coached by an Ashton répétiteur, along with other resources from The Frederick Ashton Foundation. This experience will offer dancers the unique opportunity to connect with Ashton's ballets and deepen their understanding and appreciation of his choreography.

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