James Lovell Interview

James Lovell is 19 years old and is a vocational dance student from Elmhurst Ballet School, currently in his graduate year.  He is making his professional debut in the lead role of The Prince in Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake.

How did you get into dance?

I have always loved dancing.  Whenever the radio came on I loved dancing to the music.  I started ballet lessons at a young age with my best friend Dion and haven’t looked back since!

How did you get into National Youth Ballet?

In 2017 NYB’s residential company and regional auditions were held in Birmingham and given I was studying at Elmhurst it was easy.  You have to apply to the audition for a first round, then to finals and the casting auditions are in London.

What has been your best experience of working within the NYB Performance Company?

The NYB offered me invaluable performance experience and the chance to work as part of a company at a more demanding level, at a crucial stage of my development as a dancer.

In 2017 I performed Carnival of the Animals choreographed by Scottish Ballet’s Artistic Director, Christopher Hampson.  I was given a beautiful lyrical swan solo to dance and had personal one on one coaching from Christopher to master the role which was incredibly inspiring and rewarding.

What has been your most un-nerving experience?

The season culminates in a gala performance held at London’s leading dance House, Sadler’s Wells and I was most anxious about the quick costume changes!

What exciting future opportunities have NYB provided?

NYB has given me a chance to work hard, rehearse and perform on stage.  It was through my time at NYB that I had the opportunity to work alongside Etta Murfitt and Kerry Biggin, from Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures.  I was then invited to their Swan School, I auditioned for the company and am delighted to be cast for the UK tour of Matthew Bourne\s new production of his legendary Swan Lake.

You can follow James’ career and find out more about when he will be performing at https://new-adventures.net/profile/james-lovell