Christopher Marney, Artistic Director of the award-winning London City Ballet, formerly the resident company of Sadler’s Wells, has announced a nationwide search for 20 exceptional graduates on the cusp of their professional careers. The company is seeking emerging artists ready to take the step from training into the realities of company life. This one-year course offers intensive professional immersion within the daily environment of a working ballet company.
Introduced in the company’s third year, the trainee scheme reflects London City Ballet’s rapid expansion and its commitment to nurturing new UK talent. The programme is heavily subsidised to help alleviate the financial burden of university-level fees for additional pre-professional training.
Trainees will work closely with the Director and Artistic Team, taking daily classes alongside company dancers, joining rehearsals, and becoming fully embedded in the day-to-day life of London City Ballet. They will also gain first-hand insight into the demands of professional touring.
The programme begins with rehearsals for The Firebird, followed by selected repertoire including Haieff Divertimento (George Balanchine) and Mephisto Waltz (Ashley Page). Opportunities for trainees include participation in company casting, potential performance and touring engagements, industry exposure through a dedicated professional showcase, and visibility across the company’s website, social media, and printed materials.
Training comprises a minimum of five hours per day, covering classical and modern technique, pointe work, strengthening, and rehearsals of company repertoire. Professional development support includes audition preparation, career guidance, assistance with showreels and CVs, a trainee creation period with a choreographer, and regular sessions with guest teachers and international répétiteurs.
Applicants must be between 18 and 23 years old and at graduate level or equivalent, with the right to live and work in the UK. Auditions will be held on 17 May, with offers made by the end of the month. The traineeship runs from 31 August 2026 to 9 July 2027.
Those interested may learn more and apply here.
