English National Ballet School appoints new Artistic Director

LYNNE CHARLES has been appointed Artistic Director of the English National Ballet School (ENBS). She will take up the position in September 2024. 

She succeeds VIVIANA DURANTE, who will be stepping down in the summer to pursue other opportunities.

An internationally renowned dancer, teacher and creator of 4Pointe, Charles has performed with the Hamburg Ballet, Bejart Ballet Lausanne and the Ballet National Roland Petit de Marseille. She has also been Principal Guest Artist with English National Ballet and Birmingham Royal Ballet.  

Of her appointment, Charles said: “Over the course of its history, ENBS has cemented itself as one of the leading centres for dance training in the world, and it is a privilege to build on this and help produce dancers that are ready to meet the challenges of today.

“I plan for ENBS to become the home of 4pointe and be used as a unique tool to enhance the teachers' training and students' education, as well as continuing the programme's far reaching impact on teachers outside of the school.”

AMANDA SKOOG, Executive Director of ENBS said: “I am thrilled Lynne will be joining ENBS as Artistic Director. Her wealth of experience as both teacher and dancer will mean our students are better placed than ever to establish themselves as world-class dancers." 

JAMES MEE, Chair of the ENBS board added: "Lynne’s distinguished career will give ENBS a unique voice in the world of ballet training. I would also like to take this opportunity once again to thank Viviana Durante for her exceptional artistic leadership, vision, and passion over the last five years."