1 of 11

Write now Article Tools

Behind the scenes of any ballet you will find the choreographer - the person whose vision is responsible for the magnificent spectacle the audience finally sees. In Britain four of the most successful choreographers will be unveiling new work over the coming months which will inspire and delight ballet enthusiasts both young and old. Between them they have interests which range from ballet to Indian classical through to modern dance and because of this they are bringing in new audiences who are enjoying dance for perhaps the first time.

Christopher Wheeeldon was born in 1973 and trained at the Royal Ballet School before he moved to the New York City Ballet where he ultimately became the resident choreographer. His style is fundamentally classical and could be seen at its best in Polyphonia with its amazing partnering and use of Ligeti's score. He has honed his skills in creating strong visual images through dance, and perhaps one his most exciting examples is that of Darcey Bussell swimming in space as she was lifted high over her partners head. As choreographers are in such short supply at the moment this has meant that he has been able to work with everyone from the Ballet Boyz to the Bolshoi.Unsurprisingly his obvious talent has lead to him quickly finding the financial backing for his new company, Morphoses, which aims to be 'an evolution in the history of traditional, classical ballet and attract a wider audience.' His proposed use of Icelandic singer Bjork has prompted surprise from certain quarters of the dance establishment and we have yet to see whether his innovative approach will live up to all its initial hype. His second season at Saddler's Wells premiers in the autumn and is one to watch out for.

Wayne McGregor's new work Entity had its premier at Saddler's Wells this week and continues his exploration of the theme of the relationship between the brain and the body. Working closely with scientists and musicians he aims to create simplistic visual interpretations that explore the questions. Born in 1970 he has had a broad range of experience working in West End Musicals and with the Paris Opera Ballet as well producing work for Glastonbury and Harry Potter. Only last week he was appointed Britain's first Youth Dance Champion by Culture Minister Margaret Hodge. It was following the success of his ballet Chroma in 2006 that he became resident choreographer of the Royal Ballet and this was in itself a controversial move as he was the first to be appointed

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Ballet dancing: Behind the scenes ?
We want to hear your view. Write now!