In a significant move that marks a new chapter in its illustrious history, The Royal Ballet School named Patrick Harrison its inaugural full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This appointment comes at a crucial juncture as the institution approaches its centenary in 2026, signaling a strategic shift in its leadership structure to propel the School into its next century of excellence in dance education.
Harrison, a seasoned arts management professional, joins The Royal Ballet School from the English National Ballet, where he has served as Executive Director since 2016. His tenure at the English National Ballet was marked by notable achievements, including expanding the company’s global influence, strengthening audience engagement, and successfully managing the company’s relocation to a new purpose-built facility. Harrison’s adept handling of the COVID-19 pandemic further underscores his capability to navigate challenging circumstances.
The decision to create a full-time CEO position at The Royal Ballet School was made in January 2024, following the announcement that Christopher Powney would step down from his dual role as Artistic Director and CEO at the end of the 2023/24 academic year. This restructuring aligns with the School’s continued growth and ambitious vision for the future. To complement Harrison’s appointment, the School has also named Iain Mackay as the new Artistic Director, ensuring a balanced leadership approach that addresses the institution’s creative and operational aspects.
Harrison’s impressive career trajectory includes pivotal roles at prominent arts organizations. As Executive Director at Cambridge Arts Theatre and Director of Commercial Operations at the National Theatre, he demonstrated his ability to drive commercial success and enhance audience experiences. His leadership in the £80 million NTFuture project at the National Theatre resulted in significant financial growth for the organization’s trading company.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Harrison’s commitment to the arts extends to his voluntary work. He chairs Battersea Arts Centre’s Enterprises Board and serves as one of its Trustees while offering guidance to smaller arts organizations on various operational aspects.
The Royal Ballet School’s decision to appoint a full-time CEO represents a milestone in its nearly 100-year history. This structural change builds upon the foundation laid by Christopher Powney, whose tenure as Artistic Director and CEO since 2022 saw the implementation of over 40 initiatives to enhance the student experience, including the Healthy Dancer Programme and improved mental health support.
Anna Birkett, Interim Chair of the School’s Board of Governors, expressed enthusiasm about Harrison’s appointment, citing his experience, expertise, and passion for the arts as critical factors in their decision. The School’s leadership believes that Harrison is well-equipped to guide the institution towards its centenary and ensure its sustainability, both artistically and financially, in the years to come.
For his part, Harrison has expressed his excitement about joining The Royal Ballet School at such a pivotal moment. He looks forward to collaborating with the Board of Governors and the School’s dedicated staff to realize the institution’s vision for the future, further cementing its position as a world leader in ballet training and education.
Founded in 1926 by Dame Ninette de Valois, The Royal Ballet School has long been synonymous with excellence in classical ballet training. The institution has produced a legacy of legendary performers and choreographers, including Margot Fonteyn, Kenneth MacMillan, and Darcey Bussell. Today, its alums continue to significantly impact the ballet world, with stars like Matthew Ball, Lauren Cuthbertson, and Francesca Hayward inspiring the next generation of dancers.
The Royal Ballet School’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its admissions process, which focuses solely on talent and potential. On average, 88% of students receive financial support for their full-time training, ensuring that personal circumstances do not hinder access to world-class dance education.
As The Royal Ballet School embarks on this new era under Patrick Harrison’s leadership, it reaffirms its dedication to nurturing exceptional young talent and shaping the future of classical ballet education. With a renewed focus on artistic excellence and operational efficiency, the School is poised to build upon its rich heritage and continue producing world-class dancers for generations.