I'm dancing with National Youth Ballet

I’m Barnaby, I’m 13, and have been dancing for 6 years. I am a pupil at the Hammond Vocational School in Chester where I enjoy ballet, tap, modern, jazz, musical theatre, drama and street dance. Of all these disciplines, ballet is my favourite because it is what I do best and I enjoy the challenges of classical technique.

When I first auditioned for the National Youth Ballet, I didn’t really know what was involved, but was excited to go to London with my best friend, Will and my mum. I was unsure if I would get in and felt quite nervous – as I was number 570, I realised that many audition candidates would be disappointed. The staff at National Youth Ballet made us feel welcome and at ease.

When I got the recall, my mum phoned to tell me, while Will’s mum rang with his news at exactly the same time: We were both delighted.

At the final, we saw some familiar faces. The work this time was a little harder, but still enjoyable. 

After what seemed a long wait, I received the incredible news that not only had I been accepted and offered a scholarship, but I was to dance the part of Luc in a thematic adaptation of ‘Ballet Chocolat’.

My rehearsals will take place at Tring School in Hertfordshire for a ten day period during the summer holiday. This should be great fun and includes a choreographic competition and a Bollywood fancy dress party.

There will be 5 performances at the E M Forster Theatre in Tonbridge between 25th to 27th August, culminating in a Gala Performance at the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London on Sunday 11th September. www.nyb.org.uk

Words by Barnaby, 13