The London Ballet Circle was pleased to host Constance Devernay-Laurence, Principal at Scottish Ballet, for an evening of lively and insightful conversation with the dance writer Deborah Weiss.
Constance started by discussing her upbringing and early education in France. By the age of 15 she was determined to become a ballerina and moved to the English National Ballet School to complete her training. After graduating, she joined Scottish Ballet, having been offered a contract by Ashley Page, and has been there ever since, working up the ranks from Guest Artist to Principal.
During her time at Scottish Ballet, she described how she has had the chance to dance a varied repertoire, from The Sleeping Beauty to work by Forsythe. Constance shared with the audience her experiences dancing various roles – including Mary Vetsera in Mayerling, and the title role in The Snow Queen – a role created for her by Christopher Hampson.
Constance also talked about working on Scottish Ballet’s innovative new production of Coppelia, which premiered in Edinburgh last year to much critical acclaim. She said of Jess and Morgs, the choreographers, that “ideas were still forming in their heads after work with dancers and choreography started!” She elaborated on some of the challenges of the production and filming, describing the experience as “stressful but amazing!”
Among other topics, Constance discussed overcoming injuries, Scottish Ballet’s upcoming tour to the USA – which will include performances at the Kennedy Centre – and her dream ballets to perform.
A full report of this event will be available in due course and a recording made available for members on the website.