English National Ballet School is thrilled to celebrate the recent achievements of three outstanding alumni: Zai Calliste, Harvey Littlefield and Joel Calstar-Fisher. Having trained in our London studios, each dancer graduated with aspirations of an international career. Since leaving ENBS, they have continued to make their mark on the global stage, reaching exciting new milestones along the way

Zai Calliste Selected for Emerging Dancer 2026

We are delighted to see Zai Calliste selected as a finalist for English National Ballet’s Emerging Dancer 2026. Established in 2010, Emerging Dancer is English National Ballet’s annual award recognising the company’s most promising artists, providing finalists with the opportunity to showcase both classical and contemporary repertoire.

Zai graduated from English National Ballet School in 2025 and joined English National Ballet the same year. Less than a year into his first professional season, he has already been nominated for Emerging Dancer, an impressive achievement so early in his career.

At the Emerging Dancer event on 28 May 2026 at English National Ballet’s Mulryan Centre for Dance, Zai will perform a pas de deux from The Talisman alongside Tara Millard, as well as a contemporary solo, demonstrating both his classical technique and artistic versatility. The event will be streamed globally from 4 June 2026.

Zai has also drawn significant attention for his performance in a recent work by acclaimed choreographer Crystal Pite, where he performed a major role early in his first season with English National Ballet. His powerful stage presence, musicality and emotional depth earned rave reviews, with critics highlighting him as a compelling new talent and “one to watch.”

Harvey Littlefield Nominated for National Dance Award

Congratulations also go to Harvey Littlefield, who has been nominated at the National Dance Awards for Outstanding Male Classical Performance. Harvey has been recognised for their portrayal of Younger Elizabeth in Scottish Ballet’s Mary, Queen of Scots, performing alongside Roseanna Leney as Mary.

Harvey graduated from English National Ballet School before joining Scottish Ballet, where they have continued to develop their artistry and stage presence. Their nomination by the Critics’ Circle recognises performances given during 2025 and places them among some of the UK’s most exciting emerging artists.

Joel Calstar-Fisher Receives Harju County Theatre Award

We are equally proud to celebrate Joel Calstar-Fisher, who has recently received the Harju County Theatre Award at the Estonian National Opera. The award recognises outstanding artistic achievement and honours Joel’s exceptional work as Principal Dancer of the Estonian National Ballet.

Joel trained at English National Ballet School from 2018 to 2021 before joining the Estonian National Ballet in 2021. His career has progressed rapidly, with promotions to Soloist in January 2024 and Principal Dancer in June 2025, reflecting his continued success on the international stage.

These achievements reflect the strength, talent and dedication of English National Ballet School graduates working across leading companies internationally. We are incredibly proud of Zai, Harvey and Joel, and look forward to following their continued success.

Congratulations to all three alumni. To read more about these awards and achievements explore our Media page.

Follow the journey of English National Ballet School Alumni and discover where their careers take them next.