The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is delighted to announce that Heather Lyon from Edinburgh, Scotland will be taking part in the prestigious Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition which takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil from 11-19 October 2025. At this annual competition, young dancers from around the world will come together for a week of dance, to win competition prizes and scholarships. 

Heather age 18 started ballet at the age of three in her hometown Edinburgh, Scotland, and it soon became her passion. She took RAD ballet classes at a local dance school, KS Dance Academy. 

Currently studying at Northern Ballet School, England Heather watched others from previous years benefit from attending The Fonteyn competition. Heather is delighted and grateful to be a part of this year’s competition and excited for all the challenges and opportunities it will offer.

“I am so excited to take part in this competition and represent my home country of Scotland”, says Heather. 

Named in honour of RAD’s longest-serving president, Dame Margot Fonteyn DBE, The Fonteyn is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet competitions in the world, representing the pinnacle of achievement for young dancers trained in the RAD syllabus. 

Beginning in 1931, the competition has toured the globe and is dedicated to promoting dance, providing educational experiences and recognising excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. A launch pad for a professional career, past winners have become professional dancers with companies worldwide and enjoyed long-lasting careers in the arts.

At The Fonteyn, candidates compete for a chance to win the coveted Genee Gold medal supported by Freed of London, Silver and Bronze medals and cash prizes, and for the Dame Margot Fonteyn Audience Choice Award, Choreographic Award and Musicality Award.

Alongside the prizes, candidates have the chance to be awarded scholarships to some of the most prestigious ballet schools across the globe including English National Ballet School, Houston Ballet Academy and The Royal Ballet School. F

or more information and to book your tickets visit: The Fonteyn | Tickets