Joseph Sissens is one of the Royal Ballet’s most inspiring dancers. Promoted to principal this summer, he doesn’t come from a background where ballet is encouraged, and had to be supported by a neighbour even to begin fulfilling his obvious talent. He has worked hard to get where he is – a gorgeous classical prince but also an intelligent and powerful interpreter of more contemporary styles.
He is of Anglo-Jamaican heritage, which makes him one of six dancers of colour in the Royal Ballet and he has become an activist as well as an example. Legacy, “a celebration of Black and Brown excellence in ballet”, was his idea. He wanted to create an evening where they could come and be themselves. It is his giving back and looking forward.
