OUR STORY
At Yorkshire Ballet Seminars, we believe every dancer deserves the opportunity to flourish in a supportive, encouraging environment. For over 50 years, we've created a space where artistic expression meets technical development, where dancers discover their unique voice through expert guidance and peer connection.
​
Our unique approach combines non-curriculum based training with instruction from current industry professionals, focusing on individual growth and wellbeing. We're not just teaching steps; we're nurturing artists, building confidence, and creating a community of passionate dancers.
WE INSPIRE GROWTH, REFRESH PASSION, AND NURTURE POTENTIAL IN EVERY YOUNG DANCER.
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Cira Robinson
"As Artistic Director of Yorkshire Ballet Seminars, I am committed to creating an environment where dancers flourish. My journey from Cincinnati to the international stage showed me the transformative power of ballet, and I bring that perspective to every student. At YBS we honour each dancer’s path, focusing on growth as both artist and person. Drawing on my experience with Dance Theatre of Harlem and Ballet Black, our programmes build strong technique alongside confidence, resilience and an authentic artistic voice, taught by active professionals who bring current insight from stage to studio.
We're here to support your complete journey in dance, helping you discover your unique potential.”
OUR HISTORY
David Gayle MBE
1973
The first Yorkshire Ballet Seminars, founded by David Gayle MBE, a former dancer with The Royal Ballet, was held at Ilkley College in 1973, and opened by Dame Ninette de Valois, founder of The Royal Ballet.
2005
Some of the most iconic names in ballet have taught at the summer school during its time including Sir Anthony Dowell CBE, Lynn Seymour, Dame Beryl Grey, Marguerite Porter MBE, Laura Connor, Wayne Sleep, Steven McRae and Edward Watson MBE, amongst many more. After 32 years as Director, David Gayle MBE decided to pass the baton.
OUR IMPACT
For over 50 years, Yorkshire Ballet Seminars has played a meaningful role in shaping the landscape of British ballet.
Since our first seminars in 1973, YBS has provided a unique environment where young dancers can develop their skills, confidence, and artistic voice under the guidance of leading professionals.
YBS’s greatest impact is seen in our graduates who shape the dance industry.
“It was such a huge inspiration for me attending Yorkshire Ballet Seminars and added so much to my training and knowledge of what it would be like to become a professional ballet dancer. When I look back at all the amazing teachers who taught me I feel so lucky to have had that experience while growing up in Yorkshire and I am so glad the School continues to thrive and inspire a new generation of dancers.”
KEVIN O'HARE
Director of The Royal Ballet
MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR OUR STUDENTS
Yorkshire Ballet Seminars recognises that there is a need, both by us as an organisation and in the wider world of dance to be wholly inclusive, accessible and to represent the diverse society we live in.
​​We actively encourage and support dancers from all backgrounds to apply for our courses, and we are committed to achieving greater diversity across our board of trustees, teachers and all staff who work with us. We envision a world where all dancers are healthy, happy, confident and inspired and have access to first class training. We are committed to providing scholarships and bursaries for our students and these are open to all. We welcome students of all ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion and economic backgrounds.
​​
We strive to be part of the dialogue, to be committed and open so we can best serve our students and the wider world of dance.
