24–25 APRIL 2027 | NORTH NORFOLK

THE ART OF CLASSICAL BALLET

A Repertoire Weekend with Charlotte Tonkinson

At a Glance

  • 24–25 April 2027

  • The Old Stables, Weybourne, North Norfolk

  • Improver level, approximately 2+ years' experience

  • Led by Charlotte Tonkinson

  • £400 per person

We're going to the lake!

Join Charlotte Tonkinson for a wonderful weekend exploring the beauty, artistry and contrasting styles of one of classical ballet's most loved productions, Swan Lake.

Classical ballet is about so much more than learning the steps. It's the musicality, the beautiful lines, the épaulement and the expression that bring movement to life. Through classical ballet classes, detailed coaching and repertoire, Charlotte will help you develop a greater understanding of technique, placement, coordination and artistry.

From the Swans to the Czardas

This weekend we'll explore two wonderfully contrasting pieces from Swan Lake.

The Swans - Discover the elegance and precision of dancing together as a corps de ballet. Working on the distinctive port de bras, beautiful lines, musicality and formations, we'll explore what makes the swans so captivating.

The Czardas - From the serenity of the lake to the lively character dances of Act III! Full of rhythm, energy and personality, the Hungarian Czardas offers an exciting opportunity to explore character dance and a completely different quality of movement.

Rather than simply learning the steps, the emphasis will be on understanding the choreography, refining the details and enjoying the experience of bringing these contrasting styles to life.

Meet your teacher

Charlotte Tonkinson

Charlotte began dancing at six before training at the Academy of Northern Ballet and The Royal Ballet Upper School.

She joined The Royal Ballet’s Aud Jebsen Young Dancers Programme in 2016 and became an Artist with the Company the following year, progressing to First Artist in 2022 and Soloist in 2026.

Charlotte has performed a wide range of classical and contemporary repertoire, including Giselle, Mayerling, Don Quixote, The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, as well as works by choreographers including Wayne McGregor, David Bintley and Christopher Wheeldon. She has also created roles in new works by Joseph Toonga, Gemma Bond, Joshua Junker and Wayne McGregor.

Charlotte is renowned for sharing her experience, artistry and passion for ballet in an inspiring retreat setting.

WHO IS THIS RETREAT FOR?

Designed for Improver-level adult ballet dancers with approximately two or more years of experience.

You should feel comfortable with the fundamentals of classical ballet and be ready to develop your technique, musicality and artistry.

No previous character dance experience is necessary.

What to expect

Throughout the weekend you'll enjoy:

  • Classical ballet classes with individual guidance and coaching

  • Swan Lake repertoire workshops - Swans and Czardas

  • An introduction to the style and musicality of character dance

  • An emphasis on épaulement, line, artistry and expression

  • Time to refine and enjoy the choreography in a small, friendly group

  • Focused training with space to slow down, breathe and simply enjoy dancing.

Venue & accommodation

What’s Included

  • Classical ballet classes and workshops with individual guidance and coaching

  • Vegetarian lunch

  • Saturday evening dinner at Gina’s

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Accommodation

  • Travel arrangements

  • Any travel insurance you may need

The Let's Dance Experience

Our Norfolk retreats are about much more than ballet classes. Alongside inspiring teaching and delicious vegetarian lunches, Saturday evening dinner at Gina’s is included, giving everyone the opportunity to relax and spend time together away from the studio.

With small groups, plenty of individual attention and absolutely no judgement, the atmosphere is always friendly, encouraging and personal.

Join us in norfolk

Two days of beautiful ballet, inspiring teaching and the pleasure of dancing together.

£400 per person

Reserve your space with a £100 non-refundable deposit.

Places are limited to ensure a small and personal retreat experience.

Full terms and conditions can be read here