Performer: Arielle Smith

The Dutch National's Junior company dazzled in three new works and a Balanchine classic, showcasing the stars of tomorrow.

Returning for its first anniversary, Arielle Smith and Aaron S Watkin’s Nutcracker for English National Ballet remains a feast for hungry eyes, despite its flaws. 

It was a wonderful, heartening afternoon – it’s no wonder nearly all the 2025 graduates have gained contracts with several major ballet companies.

Arielle Smith talks frankly about expectations, levelling the playing field, her passion for the art form and the importance of music as a starting point.

A raft of new full-length narrative ballets is set to premiere in the 2024–25 season: we preview some of the most significant.