Life at the Royal Ballet School by Camilla Jessel

$9.99

Life at the Royal Ballet School by Camilla Jessel is a 1970s book that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the training and daily life of students at the prestigious school, featuring the author's own photographs and illustrations. It follows the journey of young dancers from auditions through classes to performances, focusing on the dedication and challenges of their training. The book is praised for its detailed, visual exploration of the ballet world, though some reviews note it provides a glimpse rather than a comprehensive guide to technique or history. 

Key aspects of the book:

  • Author/Illustrator: Camilla Jessel 

  • Publication: First published in 1979, with later editions available 

  • Content: A year in the life of students, covering auditions, classes, and performances. 

  • Style: Features text and over 300 photographs, often in color, providing a visual narrative. 

  • Focus: The day-to-day training and the path to becoming a professional dancer. 

  • Target Audience: Young adults and adults interested in ballet and the performing arts. 


Life at the Royal Ballet School by Camilla Jessel is a 1970s book that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the training and daily life of students at the prestigious school, featuring the author's own photographs and illustrations. It follows the journey of young dancers from auditions through classes to performances, focusing on the dedication and challenges of their training. The book is praised for its detailed, visual exploration of the ballet world, though some reviews note it provides a glimpse rather than a comprehensive guide to technique or history. 

Key aspects of the book:

  • Author/Illustrator: Camilla Jessel 

  • Publication: First published in 1979, with later editions available 

  • Content: A year in the life of students, covering auditions, classes, and performances. 

  • Style: Features text and over 300 photographs, often in color, providing a visual narrative. 

  • Focus: The day-to-day training and the path to becoming a professional dancer. 

  • Target Audience: Young adults and adults interested in ballet and the performing arts.