Photos by ASH

The First Voice

Choreographer: Jessica Lang

Poems by: Madame Dame Ninette de Valois

Readers (in order of appearance): Kevin O'Hare, CBE, Dame Monica Mason, Dame Darcey Bussell

Music: Ludwig van Beethoven

Costumes: Lauren Venus

Lighting: Adam King

Length: 9 minutes

Number of Dancers: 16

Commissioned by The Royal Ballet School, Artistic Director Iain MacKay, for the Centennial Celebration of the RBS

World Premiere June 16, 2026
"The standout treat of the new works was an extraordinary ballet by Jessica Lang, The First Voice, linked to three insightful poems by Dame Ninette de Valois, read by Royal Ballet luminaries Kevin O’Hare, Monica Mason and Darcey Bussell. In earthy autumnal colours, it seemed to be of a certain period but also timeless in unusual movements and a quiet dramatic intensity. It was a joy to watch and left memories lingering long after curtain down."

- Maggie Foyer, Bachtrack, June 17, 2026

Credits