Amelia O’Hara

Amelia (she/her) is an experienced ballet educator, former professional dancer and arts leader who is passionate about ensuring that young people have the opportunity to experience the joy and transformational power of dance. She believes in creating positive, inclusive environments and advocates for wider access routes into the arts.

Amelia trained at The Royal Ballet School and Tring Park School for the Performing Arts, performing with The Royal Ballet and Northern Ballet during her training. She went on to enjoy an international performing career with companies including Scottish Ballet, Ballet Ireland, Peter Schaufuss Ballet Company and Ballet Cymru, and has performed works by leading choreographers including Sir Peter Wright, Ohad Naharin, Arielle Smith and Drew McOnie.

Following her performing career, Amelia completed The Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching and currently teaches on The Royal Ballet School’s Associate Programme and Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Dance Track programme. Alongside this, she has built a broad range of teaching and creative experience across the sector, working with students at all stages of their dance journey.

Amelia’s relationship with National Youth Ballet began as a student when a scholarship from Eve Pettinger MBE enabled her to attend. The opportunity allowed her to work as part of a company and reinforced her ambition to pursue a career in ballet. She later returned to work with the organisation, progressing to Associate Artistic Director in 2022, and is now proud to work as Artistic Director of the Residential Performance Company.

 

Photo (c) Tina Frances

Amelia O'Hara Artistic Director, Residential Performance Company 2026