Elmhurst Summer Shows 2026
This years summer performances once again proved to be one of the highlights of the school year, as Orpheus captivated sold-out audiences from 3–9 July with a vibrant celebration of dance, creativity and student achievement.
Across six performances in our studio theatre, students from the Lower and Upper Schools, Elmhurst Ballet Company and the Elmhurst Young Dancers' Programme showcased the breadth of their training in ballet, contemporary and jazz. Inspired by classical and modern myths and legends, Orpheus demonstrated the exceptional artistry, versatility and dedication developed by Elmhurst students throughout the academic year.
Artistic Director Robert Parker curated an ambitious programme that balanced celebrated classical repertoire with exciting new commissions. Year 12 students delighted audiences with excerpts from Sir Frederick Ashton's The Dream, while Year 13 premiered Invictus, a powerful new contemporary work by choreographer Marika Brussel, created during her first collaboration with the School.
Elmhurst Ballet Company brought energy and flair to the stage in Dane Bates' dynamic jazz work Ascension, while audiences also enjoyed the return of Everyone's Busy, choreographed by graduating student Alicia Wong, following its acclaimed performances in Birmingham and London earlier this year.
The performances also celebrated new choreography created especially for Elmhurst students. Years 7, 8 and 9 premiered Contention by Marcia Edwards and The Great Race of the Zodiac by Northern Ballet dancer George Liang, while Year 10 performed Suite Mythique, created by former Elmhurst student and current faculty member Alex Harrison. Year 11 presented a newly commissioned contemporary work by former Motionhouse dancer and rehearsal director Junior Cunningham, alongside pieces created by members of Elmhurst's artistic team.
For the graduating dancers of Elmhurst Ballet Company, Orpheus marked the culmination of years of vocational training before embarking on professional careers. The performances offered family, friends and supporters an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the next generation of dance artists.
The week concluded with our much-loved Grand Défilé, bringing all 190 students together on stage in a spectacular finale that reflected the unity, ambition and community spirit at the heart of the school.
With audiences filling the theatre throughout the week, Orpheus once again demonstrated why our summer performances remain a cherished tradition, celebrating not only technical excellence but also the imagination, collaboration and passion that define life at Elmhurst.
