In this month’s spotlight, we’re delighted to feature Charles Holloway OBE, a long-standing friend and cherished supporter of English National Ballet School.
Charles’ love of ballet began in childhood, sparked by his mother when she first took him to a performance. He remembers the experience with great clarity, describing it as the moment a lifelong admiration for the art form was born. He fondly recalls seeing Aaron Watkin, then a young company member, perform with English National Ballet at the Apollo in Oxford. Today, he takes joy in watching Aaron lead the Company as its Director, a full-circle moment that continues to inspire him.
Those early performances left a lasting impression, igniting an enduring passion for dance and the power of storytelling through movement.
“Ballet is storytelling without a single word being spoken it’s very clever,” Charles reflects.
For Charles, ballet stirs a deep emotional response: a mix of passion, respect, and awe for the artists whose dedication brings each performance to life. He speaks often of how moved he feels watching dancers work, whether in the studio or on stage, and how each performance reveals something profoundly human.
“It’s the passion and the dedication that really impress me,” he says. “You can see how much work and love goes into every performance.”
A devoted supporter of both English National Ballet School and English National Ballet, Charles especially enjoys attending productions such as The Nutcracker, which he says never fails to rekindle his sense of wonder and joy.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his support, he adds, is witnessing ENBS students as they grow artistically, personally, and professionally.
“Seeing them develop as individuals and dancers is very fulfilling,” Charles says. “It’s wonderful to see them arrive young and full of potential, and then graduate with confidence and artistry. I feel immensely proud, especially when I see those who go on to join English National Ballet.”
Charles also speaks openly about the increasing financial pressures facing arts organisations and training institutions today.
“The money that one gets from the government is getting less and less,” he explains. “That’s why it’s so important that supporters like myself and others help schools like this. They need people who believe in their mission and want to see them thrive.”
During his recent visit to ENBS, Charles shared his enthusiasm for the School’s upcoming capital campaign to fund a new, more welcoming and modern building a project that will offer state-of-the-art facilities for students and enhance the visitor experience.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing the diggers getting to work, all schools need to grow to generate more income, attract more students, and create better opportunities for everyone.”
As part of his visit, we introduced Charles to our 2025 Costume Appeal, which supports the creation and purchase of new costumes for student performances. He expressed admiration for the craftsmanship and creativity behind each design and encouraged others to contribute to this meaningful initiative which, at the time of writing, has already raised nearly £15,000 thanks to the generosity of our supporters.
For Charles, supporting the School means investing in a vibrant and sustainable future for ballet training, one that balances artistic excellence with opportunity and community. Through his generosity and enduring passion, he continues to help shape that future: one built on creativity, commitment, and a shared love of ballet.
There are many ways to make a difference at English National Ballet School. Through our Giving Circles, supporters can directly contribute to student scholarships, productions, and learning opportunities, ensuring every dancer has the chance to reach their full potential.
To learn more about supporting English National Ballet School, or to contact our Development Team, please email ginnykearns@enbschool.org.uk.
If you’re already a supporter and would like information on visiting the School, watching a performance, or observing a daily ballet class, please visit Supporter Events.
Like this Supporter Spotlight? Read more about other ENBS supporters here.