Royal Ballet School names new Artistic Director

IAIN MACKAY will become Artistic Director of The Royal Ballet School at the start of the academic year in September.

Mackay is an alum of the school and former Principal dancer with Birmingham Royal Ballet. After retiring from performing in 2017, he became Director of the Yorkshire Ballet Seminars and was appointed The Royal Ballet School’s International Artistic Manager in November 2021.

He has also founded two initiatives dedicated to widening access to dance, pop-up dance company Open Door Dance and inclusive community dance club for young people Imovers Dance Club.

Mackay succeeds CHRISTOPHER POWNEY, who announced earlier this year that he would step down at the end of this academic year after a decade in the role.

“I’m particularly excited to join the School at such a historic moment, with the centenary approaching in 2026,” Mackay said.

“My vision is that the School continues to be an environment where students can thrive, artistically, physically, and mentally, emerging prepared to lead the global dance community as artists, displaying excellence and resilience. I’m committed to upholding and enhancing The Royal Ballet School’s rich heritage, while looking firmly to the future.”