HRH The Duchess of Cornwall met a group of Silver Swans and their teacher in Christchurch, New Zealand last month, as part of the official tour of New Zealand.
The Duchess observed a demonstration class by the students, led by Silver Swans Licensee Celia Bosman, before talking to the group about how experiencing ballet as an older learner has improved their wellbeing, and the many benefits of ballet for all ages. The Silver Swans class was part of an Active Ageing event held in New Zealand during The Duchess’ tour of the country. Her Royal Highness also had the opportunity to meet a range of activity groups for older people, including singing and cooking.
This engagement follows Her Royal Highness’ visit to RAD headquarters in London in 2018, where the Duchess met a range of students, including those taking Silver Swans classes especially created for over 55s. During the visit last year, having observed a class in action, The Duchess declared she too would like to join the ranks of the Silver Swans.
The RAD developed Silver Swans in response to a growing demand for ballet classes for older learners, drawing upon research into dance practice for older participants from RAD’s Dance for Lifelong Wellbeing project. Silver Swans classes are delivered exclusively by Silver Swans Licensees who have trained to adapt ballet-teaching techniques for the needs and safety of older adults, taking into account a wide range of abilities and ages. Initially launched in the UK and USA in 2017, Silver Swans is now global, with classes also available in Australia, Hong Kong, Canada and Mexico. The initiative launched in New Zealand in July of this year to great success. By the beginning of 2020, there will be over 1,000 Silver Swans Licensees across the world offering classes in their local community.