Anna du Boisson to Step Down as Artistic Director of YDA

Anna du Boisson, co-founder of YDA, has made the decision to step down from her post as Artistic Director at the end of this academic year after 15 years in the role. We are delighted that she will be moving into a new role as Honorary Patron from September 2021. Anna will still maintain her leadership role with our affiliated school, West London School of Dance and will maintain a close relationship with us at YDA.

Of her time at the school Anna had this to say:

"My years with YDA have been such a joy and a privilege. I am so very proud of all the students, past and present. I am honoured to have worked by the side of the caring and talented teachers. Thank you all so very much"

Since co-founding the school in 2006, Anna has had an immeasurable impact on so many young people and shaped countless careers at a grassroots level.

Co-directors, Kerry Williams and Kate Blakeburn ask for you to join them in thanking Anna for her incredible leadership, vision, and selfless dedication.

With this sad news comes exciting change. We are delighted to announce the appointment of a new Head of Dance, Rachael Hunt. Rachael Hunt trained at The Royal Ballet Schools and danced as a soloist with English National Ballet and Dutch National Ballet before teaching at English National Ballet School and Central School of Ballet. Rachael brings with her a wealth of experience and we look forward to better introducing Rachael to you in due course.