© Ballet Central Central School of Ballet students are keeping a diary of their final year for us - the year when they actually go out on a tour all around the UK. But that's in the future and this month we have more introductions and getting to know you's. Previous diary Back in 2000 we also tracked 4 Ballet Central students on their UK tour: Year 2000 Student Diary Ballet Central reviews Ballet Central website

Stephanie Elstob...
The Home Straight

We’re into our last week of being Ballet Central with only shows in Cambridge and London left. Graduation is coming so quickly and then we’ll be out in the big wide world!

We mentioned it to you last month, but Amy has now gone to Hong Kong. Seeing her move out of the flat was one of the hardest things we’ve done this year! Of course, I miss her terribly but I know she’s going to be a huge success!

College is preparing for the end of year performances, with all of the first and second years running around between rehearsals, it’s the school’s busiest time of year. Their pieces are looking good, with only last minute polishing to do before they are put on stage.

For graduation, I am performing one of the Esmerelda solos from NBT’s Hunchback of Notre Dame which was choreographed by Michael Pink, but was one of Christopher Gable’s ballets. Last week I was very fortunate to rehearse my solo with Fergus Logan, as he came into the school to take some rehearsals and classes. He has worked with both Michael Pink and Christopher, so he was able to give me first-hand tips from the creators of the piece. Fergus Logan is a graduate from Central and has had an amazing career so far, from Northern Ballet Theatre to the West End.

If I start to write my good-byes now, I’m going to get emotional… but I do have to say that the Ballet Central tour has been one of the most demanding yet most rewarding things we could ever do. I hope you have enjoyed our diaries, and I’ll be in touch again to let you know about life as professional dancer!

Steph