When I was told that I would be representing the English National Ballet School in the Prix de Lausanne Partner School Choreographic Project, I honestly couldn’t believe it. Attending the Prix de Lausanne had always felt like such a distant dream, so being able to experience it without the pressure of competing felt incredibly special and more than I could have ever imagined.
This experience has been one of the most important opportunities of my training so far. It marks a huge milestone in my journey as an artist and is something I know I will never forget.
One of the most meaningful parts of the project was the people I met. I didn’t expect them to have such a big impact on me, but I have never felt so inspired, and my passion for dance grew so much during that time. I made strong friendships with students from pre-professional schools around the world, and every morning I would walk into class smiling, excited to see everyone. The studio itself was beautiful, with views of the mountains of Switzerland in the distance, and it made the whole experience feel even more special.
Being part of this project also had a huge influence on my interest in choreography which I have been exploring alongside my training, being immersed in such a creative process pushed that passion even further. Watching a piece come together so quickly, understanding the intention behind movement, and seeing how ideas are shaped into choreography inspired me deeply. It encouraged me to trust my instincts and motivated to continue creating in the future.
Of course, the experience was intense. Our days started early, with 6 a.m. wake-ups, and often ended around 7 p.m. at the theatre. We took classes with inspiring directors and teachers before spending long hours in rehearsals with choreographer Edwaard Liang, Director of the Washington Ballet, and co-choreographer Gio Villalobos. In less than four days, we created a ten-minute piece together.
The rehearsal process felt like a real insight into professional company life. Mr Liang would create movement on us, and we were expected to learn and adapt quickly. I was especially drawn to the meaning behind the work, as well as the original music composed for us by Oliver Davis. Our piece, The Gathering, felt like a reflection of who we were as a group, dancers coming together from all over the world with a shared purpose.
This experience has completely changed the way I now approach classes and rehearsals. I feel much more present and in tune with what I am doing in the studio. Instead of focusing only on getting everything right, I try to take more risks, be curious, and genuinely enjoy the movement. It feels like I have unlocked a new mindset, one that has brought so much more joy and appreciation into my training.
Even though our rehearsal schedule meant I didn’t have much time to watch the competition itself, I was still able to see some of the contestants perform and experience the atmosphere of the Prix de Lausanne in person, which felt very different from watching it on a screen.
Over the past year, ENBS students have represented the School at leading international competitions, including the Prix de Lausanne and The Fonteyn in both London (2024) and Brazil (2025), where our students were awarded Silver Medals in consecutive years.
In 2024, Lydia Hough (Third Year) achieved second place and is now dancing with London City Ballet.
In 2025, Valentina Toscani (First Year) also secured second place at The Fonteyn.
Discover Lydia’s ballet journey in our Alumni section.
Read more about Valentina Toscani’s experience at The Fonteyn in our News blog.