A YOUNG dancer from Aylburton has just been awarded a place at the prestigious English National Ballet School in London, where he plans to continue his full-time classical ballet training alongside studying a level six diploma in performing arts.
Charles Heaman began his love affair with ballet at the age of six at the Allsteps Dance Academy in Lydney. His mum Jean said: “His three sisters all took classes and Charles became bored sitting in the waiting area for hours each week. He asked if he could join in and Lisa Rafferty – principal of Allsteps – soon spotted Charles’ true potential and he gained an associate place with the Royal Ballet School.”
At 11 years of age Charles auditioned for, and was awarded a place, at Elmhurst Ballet School on a full scholarship. Elmhurst is a full-time vocational school in Birmingham, closely associated with Birmingham Royal Ballet.
During his time at Elmhurst, Charles, who is currently taking his GCSEs, played the part of the Young Prince in David Bintley’s Prince of the Pagodas and toured with Birmingham Royal Ballet. He also recorded the Royal Academy of Dance Grade Four DVD and performed at the globally televised launch of their new syllabus.
Jean added: “Whilst Charles has been fortunate enough to be awarded a scholarship that pays for his dance training, it does not cover his day-to-day living expenses in London. He is seeking sponsorship from any small business or individual that would like to support an aspiring young classical ballet dancer.”
Anyone interested in sponsoring Charles, is asked to contact [email protected]