Countess of Wessex launches Central School of Ballet base in Southwark

A new dance school with a royal name was launched last week by its enthusiastic patron.

Central School of Ballet, part of the renowned Conservatoire for Dance and Drama, announced on Thursday of last week that its new base in Paris Garden, Southwark, will carry the name of the Countess of Wessex.

She visited the school on the day of the announcement, met students, staff and supporters, and unveiled a plaque for the new building which will now be known as “The Countess of Wessex Studios”.

Students on Central’s undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes will begin using the new South Bank premises during the summer term in a phased move from the school’s existing home in Clerkenwell, with the school being fully operational there in the new academic year in September.

The new Paris Gardens premises will feature amenities to rival dance training facilities anywhere in the UK, including seven studios, a fully equipped studio theatre, and study and resource centres.

The fit-out will include a state-of-the-art health suite providing psychology, nutrition, physiotherapy, pilates and recovery from injury programmes.

The aim is to become a hub for a dynamic dance community combining excellence in dance training for those aiming for a professional career and a programme of opportunities for the Southwark community.

Heidi Hall, director of Central School of Ballet, said: “Our much-anticipated move will allow Central to provide exceptional facilities to match our world-class training for the benefit of our degree level students, for young people with an early passion for dance and the wider community to enjoy for exercise or recreation.

“Bringing everyone together in one place has been a long-held aim and we are forever grateful to The Countess for her support and enthusiasm as our Royal Patron.

“We also appreciate Southwark council and Cllr Peter John for their support of Central’s work, and are thankful for all our loyal supporters who have believed in our passion and determination to deliver this project.”

Pictures top: The Countess of Wessex at the Central School of Ballet