Four Stourbridge dancers chosen for Swan Lake production

Martha Till, eight, Layla Chatterley, 15, Amelie Short, 14, and Kitty-Rae Goth, 14, all from Stourbridge, were selected following competitive auditions for English Youth Ballet's production.

They will join an 80-strong cast when the classical ballet is performed at the at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10.

The opportunity will see the youngsters train and rehearse alongside experienced professional dancers, with coaching covering ballet technique, choreography and character work.

Layla began ballet when she was two and previously performed with English Youth Ballet when she was younger.

She said: “When I was little I performed with EYB and I dreamed of being one of the senior girls dancing with the professionals.

“My roles in Swan Lake 2026 are going to give me that opportunity and I am really excited.”

She said she valued the friendships she had developed through dancing and enjoyed seeing a production progress from the first choreography sessions through to the final performance.

English Youth Ballet principal Ann Wall, who will perform the role of Odette, the White Swan, said working with young dancers was among the most rewarding parts of performing with the company.

She said: “I enjoy teaching and coaching all the young dancers and I see some of the most talented young dancers in the country.

“I feel honoured to be a role model to the dancers and help give them an insight into the world of professional ballet.”

English Youth Ballet was founded in 1998 and gives young dancers opportunities to perform on regional stages alongside professional principal dancers.

Former participants have gone on to careers with major ballet companies, including The Royal Ballet.

Tickets for Swan Lake are available from Wolverhampton Grand Theatre's box office, by calling 01902 429212 or through the theatre's website.