Is that who I think it is?
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Ballet dancer Wayne Sleep
Wayne Sleep, described as “the greatest virtuoso dancer the Royal Ballet has ever produced” by Dame Ninette de Valois, is a celebrated dancer, choreographer, and actor.
His passion for dance began as a child, and by the age of 13 he had won a scholarship to the Royal Ballet School.
Wayne’s professional career was launched when he joined the Royal Ballet in 1966. Despite his height of 5ft 2ins being initially seen as a limitation, it became his unique asset. At 17, he secured his first contract, playing Napoleon, a role that required a smaller dancer.
By 1973, he had become a Principal Dancer, known for his performances in over 50 major roles created for him by legendary choreographers such as Sir Frederick Ashton, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, and Rudolf Nureyev.
In addition to his ballet accomplishments, Wayne’s career spans various entertainment sectors. He formed his dance company DASH in 1980, which aimed to bring dance to a broader audience by showcasing a mix of styles. It toured the world, with successful seasons in the West End and a final performance at the London Coliseum.
Wayne also pursued acting, notably performing alongside Dame Judi Dench.
That dance with Princess Diana
To the wider public, he is perhaps best known for his close friendship with Princess Diana, epitomised by their famous dance at the Royal Opera House in 1985, which captivated audiences globally.
He talked about it with Chiswick Calendar editor Bridget Osborne with an audience at the Tabard Theatre in 2016.
In 1998 he set up the Wayne Sleep Foundation that provides support to young arts students.
He married his husband José Bergera in 2008 and the couple have lived in Chiswick since for over a decade.
Image: Wayne Sleep as a judge at the Chiswick Dog Show 2018.
READ ALSO: An In-depth profile of Wayne Sleep by Bridget Osborne
Page written by Ciara Fitzgerald, 2024
