Ballet Black Celebrates 25 Years of Impact and Innovation

Ballet Black, founded in 2001 by dancer-choreographer Cassa Pancho, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a UK tour titled "Ballet Black at 25," running from March 3 to July 9, 2026. The company was established to enhance opportunities for Black and Asian ballet dancers in the UK. The anniversary program features a double bill, including a revival of Mthuthuzeli November's "Ingoma," originally choreographed in 2019, which addresses the 2012 South African Marikana strike where police killed 34 miners. The second piece, "…all towards hope," is a world premiere by American choreographer Hope Boykin, marking her debut in the UK.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th AnniversaryThe Guardian

Ballet Black began with six dancers and has since expanded to nine dancers, one trainee, and one second-year apprentice. Pancho reflects on the company's growth, noting that it has transitioned from a part-time group working on weekends to a full-time company with payroll and pension. She describes this evolution as "bursts of progress," emphasizing the significance of Ballet Black's establishment in the UK classical ballet scene, which lacked similar organizations until its inception.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th AnniversaryThe Guardian

The company has garnered critical acclaim, with "Ingoma" winning a Black British Theatre Award and an Olivier Award. Pancho highlights the challenges Ballet Black faced in its early years, where it was often viewed as an irritant within the ballet community. However, the Black Lives Matter movement catalyzed a shift in perception, leading organizations to seek Ballet Black's guidance on diversity and inclusion.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

Cassa Pancho stated, “When I think back, it’s like it was a different world back then... that [growth] in itself, in this country, in classical ballet was a massive statement.” She also noted the dual perspectives on Ballet Black's necessity: some questioned the need for such a company, while others perceived it as a challenge to traditional norms.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

Despite its achievements, Ballet Black has faced criticism. Some detractors argue that its existence raises questions about racial equity in ballet, with opinions ranging from viewing the company as a necessary entity to perceiving it as discriminatory against white dancers. Pancho acknowledges these criticisms, stating that the company has evolved and aims to continue fostering innovation and diversity.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

Looking ahead, Pancho expresses her commitment to sustaining Ballet Black's mission and exploring new avenues for innovation and diversity in the coming years. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of ballet and the ongoing need for representation within the art form.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

• “When I think back, it’s like it was a different world back then,” — Cassa Pancho, Founder of Ballet Black

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

• “) “That [growth] in itself, in this country, in classical ballet was a massive statement.” — Cassa Pancho

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

• “Some people genuinely wanted to change. Some people asked because they felt like everyone was watching them, so they needed to be seen to be doing something to make change.” — Cassa Pancho

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary

Ballet Black's 25th anniversary not only celebrates its artistic achievements but also underscores its role in advocating for diversity and inclusion within the ballet community.

Ballet Black Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary