Shani Moran-Simmonds, who joined Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Dance Track in 2012 at the age of six, has become the first student from that programme to join London’s Royal Ballet.
Birmingham-born Moran-Simmonds is a former pupil of Kings Heath primary school. BRB recognised her talent and love for ballet, selecting her to join regular dance classes with the company. She later performed in Sir Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker before winning a place at the Royal Ballet School, where she graduated.
Dance Track is part of BRB’s Learning, Education Access and Participation (LEAP) department and started in 1997. It offers free dance training to children who would not normally have access to dance.
Moran-Simmonds commented, “I remember always being so happy and excited when it was time to go to my weekly Dance Track classes. I’m super-excited to start the next chapter with the Royal Ballet as a professional dancer. It truly is a pinch-me moment that the dream I had from a very young age has actually come true.”
Rebecca Brookes, BRB’s head of LEAP, said, “Shani’s journey from joining Dance Track at just six years old to achieving her dream role with the Royal Ballet is nothing short of inspiring. We’re incredibly proud to have played a part in her story. Her talent, dedication and passion were evident from the start. Watching her flourish has been a joy and a testament to the power of opportunity and support.”