Darcey Bussell

Darcey Bussell is a celebrated ballerina and television personality, recognized for her extensive career with The Royal Ballet and her role as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing. After her promotion to Principal Dancer at The Royal Ballet in 1989, becoming the youngest in the company’s history, Darcey Bussell rapidly rose to global ballet icon status. Her professional journey commenced in 1987 with the Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet. A pivotal moment came in 1988, when renowned choreographer Kenneth MacMillan cast her in the leading role of his ballet, ‘The Prince of the Pagodas,’ leading to her transfer to The Royal Ballet the following year.

Bussell was appointed Officer of the British Empire (OBE) in 1995 for her contributions to the arts. Throughout her prolific tenure, Bussell performed in over 80 distinct roles, with 17 new roles created specifically for her. Her repertoire included iconic classical ballets such as Princess Aurora in ‘The Sleeping Beauty,’ Odette/Odile in ‘Swan Lake,’ and the Sugar Plum Fairy in ‘The Nutcracker.’ She made multiple acclaimed guest appearances with the New York City Ballet, beginning in 1993. Her contributions were honored with the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2006.

Her commitment to the arts continues; Bussell was appointed the first female chair of the Plymouth Theatre Royal board in 2023 and presided as President of the jury at the Prix de Lausanne ballet competition in 2024. Looking ahead, she is slated to appear on a British postage stamp in 2025 as part of ‘The Vicar of Dibley’ series.