Former pupils

From first steps to professional careers

Meet two former pupils whose careers span classical ballet, West End theatre, television and film.

Classical ballet

James Hay

First Soloist of The Royal Ballet

James began dancing at Linda Butler School of Dance at around four years old before continuing his training at The Royal Ballet School. Born in Berkshire, he joined the School’s Junior Associate programme aged eight and entered The Royal Ballet in 2008.

As a student, James won Young British Dancer of the Year in 2006. He received the Lynn Seymour Award for expressive dance and became a Prix de Lausanne prizewinner in 2007. He was promoted to First Soloist in 2015.

James’s journey from his first dance classes to The Royal Ballet reflects the strong foundations, individual development and sustained commitment that professional training demands.

View James’s Royal Ballet and Opera profile

Stage and screen

Helen Siveter

Performer, choreographer and movement creative

Helen began dancing at Linda Butler School of Dance at around five years old and continued at the school until she was 18. She went on to build a wide-ranging career across West End theatre, international touring, television and film.

Her performance credits include Matilda the Musical, Mamma Mia!, We Will Rock You, Memphis, Chicago, Fame, Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors and Saturday Night Fever. Helen later developed her work in choreography, movement and creative direction, contributing to productions at the National Theatre and The Old Vic.

Her screen credits include Britain’s Got Talent, the Olivier Awards, The Grinch, Wicked, Matilda the Musical and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. Helen’s career reflects the versatility, discipline and creativity required across stage and screen.

Find your place

Every dancer’s path is individual

Whether dancing for enjoyment or working towards advanced training, pupils are supported to develop confidence, technique and musicality at their own pace.

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