Mission and content of The Fonteyn
The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition represents the pinnacle of achievement for young people trained in the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, and it is dedicated to promoting and rewarding standards of excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. This is achieved by offering aspiring dancers the unique opportunity to work with world-renowned choreographers and professionals, as well as the chance to perform on an international stage.
The Fonteyn week consists of coaching sessions, semi-finals and a final performance during which medals and awards are assigned by a panel of judges.
Candidates
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Must be a member of the Royal Academy of Dance;
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have passed RAD Advanced 2 with distinction;
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be aged between 15 and under 19 years by 19 May 2025;
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be of non-professional status and not have been employed on a professional contract.
Fees
There is a total of £1000 to compete in The Fonteyn:
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£100 registration fee (non-refundable) to be paid when you apply.
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£900 entry fee, due by closing date (19 may 2025)
If you are considering applying but would need financial support to do so, please send an email to bursaries@rad.org.uk
Venues
The Fonteyn classes and coaching sessions will take place at Estudio de Ballet Cisne Negro on 12-15 October 2025 , after a welcome reception on Saturday 11 October 2025.
The semi-finals will be held at the Ibirapuera Auditorium in São Paulo on 16-17 October 2025.
The final will be held at Ibirapuera Auditorium on the evening of Sunday 19 October 2025.
Repertoire
Semi-finals consist in a judged class on stage, performing one variation from the Classical Repertoire list. Candidates also perform a ‘Dancers Own’ piece.
During the coaching, candidates will also work with a top choreographer on a variation commissioned for this year’s competition. The finalists will perform this at the final, where it will have its’ premiere.
Who can enter the competition?
Applications are open from 10 February 2025 to 19 May 2025. To take part in The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Potential candidates with nationalities from or those currently residing and training within Latin America, please click here for more information on how to enter RAD Advanced 2 exam.
Membership
Must be a member of the RAD. Click here to view our membership options.
Exams
Have passed the RAD Advanced 2 exam with distinction or high distinction.
Age
Be at least 15 years old and under 19 years old by 19 May 2025.
Employment
Be of non-professional status and not have been employed on a professional contract.
Prizes
As well as gaining the unique experience of participating in this world-renowned dance competition, prize money will be awarded to medallists. Medals are awarded to candidates showing the highest levels of competency in the stated criteria. The judges’ decision is final. The Genée Gold Medal is only awarded when a candidate demonstrates exceptional technical skills, an innate response to music, outstanding performance qualities and charisma. In addition to the above medals, a Choreographic Award, the Dame Margot Fonteyn Audience Choice Award, and a Musicality Award will also be awarded.
Gold
£5,000
Silver
£3,000
Bronze
£2,000
Choreographic £250
Audience Choice
£250
Musicality
£250
Divulgação: Urbia Parques
An extraordinary venue in the heart of São Paulo
Built in 2005 to a 1950s International Style design by architect Oscar Niemeyer, the Ibirapuera Auditorium has an internal capacity for 800 people. When a 20-metre door is opened at the back of the stage, however, the capacity reaches almost 15 thousand people in the external area. The venue is used for cultural activities and musical shows and even hosted the Latin Grammy Awards in 2008.
The choice of this unique location underlines our mission to inspire the world to dance.
Coaching
Semi-finals
Final
FAQ
When will audience tickets be available to purchase?
Audience tickets will be available to purchase in 2025. To be the first to hear about ticket releases, make sure you sign up to our newsletter.
What is São Paulo like?
São Paulo is Brazil's largest city. It is considered a cosmopolitan city with diverse culture, cuisine and attractions. The safety and wellbeing of all participants is very important to us. As part of our planning, we will be taking extra precautions to ensure that all candidates feel secure throughout their time with us during competition week. This includes organising safe and reliable transportation to and from the venues, as well as working closely with trusted local partners to provide additional security measures during the competition, such as chaperoned visits to local shops after coaching.
How do I get to São Paulo?
São Paulo/Guarulhos is São Paulo's International Airport.
Where will I stay once I'm in São Paulo?
Candidates will stay at a hotel arranged by the RAD and candidates will be chaperoned throughout the competition by local English-speaking chaperones. Supporters and other visitors are welcome to stay at hotels recommended by the RAD, or you are welcome to find your own accommodation. RAD will share recommended hotel lists in due course: we will provide detailed guidelines and support for families, including recommended accommodations in safer areas and tips for navigating the city.
How will I travel around São Paulo once I'm there?
We are committed to making the experience as safe and comfortable as possible. If you're a candidate, you will travel between hotel and venues via a coach organised by the RAD. If you're a visitor, we can recommend travel options for you. Uber and 99Taxi are also widely available.
I want to volunteer for the event, is that possible?
Yes, we'd love to hear from you. Please email events@rad.org.uk with your interest.
I am interested in supporting or sponsoring the event, how can I contact you?
Please write to development@rad.org.uk
