A Royal Conservatoire of Scotland ballet dancer has taken the top prize in one of the world’s most prestigious dance events.

Antonia Cramb, 18, who is entering third year of the BA Modern Ballet degree programme, was presented with the gold medal at the Margot Fonteyn International Ballet competition in London.

“I am completely overwhelmed!” said Antonia.

“I think it is one of those surreal moments that will never truly feel real to me, which was definitely made apparent by my reaction last night!

“The Fonteyn International Ballet Competition is more than a competition, it is an experience with memories made that I will cherish life long, shared with people I am sure will be ballet’s next stars!

“I would like to think that one day I will look back at this as just the beginning and I hope I did Scotland and the team at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland proud.”

Kerry Livingstone, Head of the School of Dance at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, said: “We are all absolutely thrilled for Antonia who performed consistently all week, where her love of dancing shone through.

“She is a truly deserving winner who proves that dedication, passion and hard work pays off.”

Watch the final here

Joining Antonia in the final was fellow third year Nicolas Pereira da Silva. Second-year students Selene Guasti and Isla MacLeod also made the semi-finals.

“Congratulations also to Nico, Selene and Isla for their commitment and artistry – they should be so proud of their performances on the international stage,” added Kerry.

“To have four dancers in the semi-finals of this prestigious global event is a reflection of the quality of teaching and training at RCS.”

The week-long competition attracted over 60 candidates from 14 countries around the world, who each took part in coaching sessions before taking to the stage in the semi-finals.

The judging panel comprised Dame Darcey Bussell, President of the Royal Academy of Dance, Alessandra Ferri OMRI, Artistic Director Designate of the Wiener Staatsballett and Jose Alves, former Senior Artist at Ballet Black. For the final, finalists performed before a panel comprising Bussell, Ferri and Kevin O’Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet.

The Fonteyn attracts the finest young dancers from around the globe and is dedicated to promoting and rewarding excellence among young ballet dancers trained in the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, offering a unique opportunity to work with world-renowned choreographers and professionals, compete for medals and cash prizes, and perform on an international stage.

Speaking after the final, Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the RAD, said: “Congratulations to all The Fonteyn 2024 medallists and candidates. It’s been a true pleasure watching you grow throughout the week, and we hope that you have made memories to be treasured forever.”

Antonia is pictured with the judges Dame Darcey Bussell (President of the RAD), Sir Kevin O’Hare (Director of The Royal Ballet) and Alessandra Ferri (Director designate of Wiener Staatsballett)

Images © Martin Bell