The Raw Talent Summit 2026

Welcome to The Raw Talent Summit 2026

An inspiring one-day event created for dancers, parents and teachers who want clearer understanding of the ballet world and the journey through it.

Hosted at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance, The Summit brings together respected voices from across the profession for a day of honest conversation, expert guidance and meaningful education.

This is an event designed to support a new generation of healthy, sustainable and informed dancers.

What To Expect

• Insightful lectures from leading industry professionals
• Exclusive interviews and live discussions
• Honest guidance on training pathways and career realities
• Masterclasses for dancers (aged 11+) and parent/teacher specific sessions
• Q&A opportunities
• Carefully selected product demonstrations
• A like-minded community passionate about excellence in dance

Who It Is For

• Young dancers considering vocational pathways
• Pre-vocational, vocational and post-graduate dancers
• Parents navigating decisions and next steps
• Teachers supporting aspiring dancers
• Anyone seeking greater clarity in the ballet profession

Key Speakers & Teachers

Mikko Nissinen - Artistic Director of Boston Ballet and Boston Ballet School, included in morning entry

Dr Imogen Aujla - Dance Psychology Specialist, included in morning entry

José Martín Trujillo - former First Soloist of the Royal Ballet (José will teach the Summit masterclasses), included in morning entry

Lynne Charles - Artistic Director of English National Ballet School and 4Pointe Founder, included in afternoon entry

Alexander Campbell - Artistic Director of the RAD and former Principal of the Royal Ballet, included in afternoon entry

*A Q&A with the full Summit panel will take place at the end of the day, included in afternoon entry