Royal Ballet and Opera mounts search for first ever Principal Partner of The Royal Ballet
No, not a principal dancer but a principal partner, and not a dancing partner either, but one that has deep pockets. The Royal Ballet and Opera has begun a search for the inaugural Principal Partner of The Royal Ballet.
The news comes following the announcement of The Royal Opera that Rolex will be its first-ever Principal Partner, following the brand’s existing 18-year partnership as the Official Timepiece of the Royal Opera House.
With over 500 million ballet fans worldwide, the The Royal Ballet’s Principal Partner will benefit from the highest level of association with the Company, as well as access to Royal Ballet content and artists. The collaboration offers a brand the chance to connect with The Royal Ballet’s extensive global audience, of which 42% are under the age of 35, and 17% are under 24.
Sophie Wybrew-Bond, who is Chief Commercial Officer of the Royal Ballet and Opera, said:
The Royal Ballet is a world-class company which is renowned for its extensive repertory, choreographic heritage and incredible company of dancers. Partnering with a brand that shares our values of uniting tradition and innovation, provides a rare opportunity for shared storytelling on global platforms.
Dance, and ballet particularly, resonates with audiences worldwide, due to its athleticism, artistry and the stories behind each dancer’s journey to be the best. We’d love to share this engagement with a partner and to build something unique together.
The Principal Partner will play a crucial role in The Royal Ballet’s future, giving an opportunity to align with the Company’s brand values of artistic excellence and innovation. Founded in 1931, The Royal Ballet is a major force in global arts, representing the highest standards in technique, precision and creativity. The Royal Ballet and Opera also has a number of leading engagement initiatives, such as Chance to Dance, a social impact programme that tackles the increasing creativity gap in schools, and Young RBO, which provides access to discounted £30 tickets to 16-25 year-olds to performances, inspiring and engaging the next generation with the arts.
Kevin O’Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet said:
The collaboration will be instrumental in enriching our creative journey and expanding the reach of our performances. We’re seeking a partner who will not only enhance our artistic endeavours but also fortify our mission to bring transformative and inspiring experiences to audiences around the world. Together, we can create a lasting impact that resonates far beyond the stage.
The Royal Ballet and Opera will focus on sectors and regions where the Company resonates strongly and connects with audiences in a meaningful way, including territories such as South Korea (where The Royal Ballet will tour in 2025), Japan, and the US.
Graham Spicer, aka ‘Gramilano’, is a writer, director and photographer based in Milan. He was a regular columnist for Opera Now magazine and wrote for the BBC until transferring to Italy. His articles have appeared in various publications from Woman’s Weekly to Gay Times, and he wrote the Danza in Italia column for Dancing Times magazine. Graham was the historical advisor on Codice Carla, the 2023 documentary on Carla Fracci.
Graham also works as a dance photographer, and his photos have appeared in many books, theatre programmes, and magazines, including Dancing Times, Dance Spirit and Ballet2000, as well as all the major Italian newspapers.
He is a member of the Dance Section of The Critics’ Circle.
