Cassa Pancho, the truly inspirational and innovative director and choreographer of Ballet Black, spoke on Monday 29 September about the stand she has taken to challenge the traditional landscape of classical ballet and to found a dance company for the talent and expression of black and Asian dancers.

Cassa Pancho MBE is the pioneering founder and inspirational artistic director of Ballet Black, a professional ballet company established in 2001. After studying classical ballet and recognising a lack of opportunities for Black and Asian dancers in the UK, Pancho founded the company to provide a platform for these artists and to challenge the traditional landscape of classical ballet.

Under Cassa Pancho’s leadership, Ballet Black has commissioned numerous new works, performed at prestigious venues, continues to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion in the dance world and has been internationally critically acclaimed. Cassa Pancho has also commissioned a wide range of choreographers to create new ballets for the company. One of her most recent significant inspirational works as a collaborator and artistic director was Say It Loud in 2022. This ballet was created in collaboration with the Ballet Black Company artists to commemorate the company’s 20th anniversary and won Best Dance Production at the 2022 Black British Theatre Awards. Ballet Black has consistently provided inspiring opportunities to showcase diverse talent in the classical ballet world. Cassa Pancho was awarded an MBE in 2013 for her services to classical ballet.

The suggested price for tickets is £10 to cover our costs, but free tickets are also available so as not to exclude anyone who would like to come. All are welcome.