The Fonteyn Lands in Latin America for the First Time

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) has announced that applications are now open for its prestigious flagship event, The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition (The Fonteyn). Marking a significant milestone in the competition’s 94-year history, The Fonteyn will be held in Latin America for the first time, taking place at Auditório Ibirapuera, Sao Paulo, Brazil, from 11-19 October 2025.

Named after the RAD’s longest-serving president, Dame Margot Fonteyn, this globally renowned competition is a pinnacle of achievement for young dancers trained in the RAD syllabus. Since its inception in 1931, The Fonteyn has toured the world, promoting dance, providing invaluable educational experiences, and celebrating excellence in young ballet dancers. It serves as a launch pad for aspiring professionals, with past winners going on to enjoy successful careers with leading companies worldwide.

“The Fonteyn is such a wonderful opportunity for young dancers to be seen on a world stage, receive expert coaching and form friendships and connections with fellow dancers from all corners of the globe,” says Darcey Bussell, President of the RAD. “It is truly more than just a competition, but an experience that young people will remember and cherish for the rest of their lives.”

Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the RAD, emphasises the unique opportunity The Fonteyn offers dancers trained in the RAD syllabus. “Candidates can expect a week filled with dancing, coaching and the opportunity to make friends for life,” he says. “We're thrilled to be bringing our annual, flagship event to Brazil for the first time in the competition's history. Combined with Sao Paulo’s rich arts and cultural identity, we aim to create a memorable experience for The Fonteyn candidates, audiences and the city’s extraordinary community. On behalf of the RAD and its Brazilian team, we look forward to welcoming you to Sao Paulo in October.”

The competition will begin with coaching sessions at Estudio de Ballet Cisne Negro, followed by the semi-finals and final at Auditório Ibirapuera. Candidates will be assessed on classwork, a classical repertoire variation, and a ‘Dancer’s Own’ piece—a newly choreographed solo created by themselves, their teacher, or a peer, to music of their choice. They will also have the chance to work with a leading commissioned choreographer on a variation during the competition.

Australia has a strong history of success at The Fonteyn (formerly the Genée International Ballet Competition), with many dancers achieving recognition on the international stage. Most recently, in 2024, Australia boasted four finalists, with 17-year-old Ernesto Young taking home the Bronze Medal and the Choreographic Award. Sydney has twice played host to the competition, in 2002 and 2016, further cementing Australia’s connection to this prestigious event.

Applications for The Fonteyn 2025 are now open. Aspiring dancers can apply online at https://www.thefonteyn.org/.