Who We Are

 
 

Pointe Black

 

As a traditionally ‘elite’ and European art form, ballet is systemically inaccessible to many people.  Pointe Black breaks these boundaries by giving Black and other non-white people access to ballet and its creative, mental health and physical benefits.  

All our classes are beginners friendly, with an inclusive studio where everyone can turn up as themselves unapologetically.

Community is at the heart of everything we do, using ballet to reach a number of people across the globe. With non-profit projects in our local South London area, across to the North of the city, and even spanning to Guatemala, Pointe Black is more than a dance school, it is a movement; and we are just getting started.

There is a lot of work to be done in bringing the culture into ballet, but with your help, we are on our way.

Ruth Essel

Founding Director & Principal

Ruth started Ballet when she was 3 years old and although she fell in love with art, she knew the industry had a lot of work. After dealing with microaggressions as a Black dancer, she took a vow to help young people experience a different dance world to she did. She’s performed in theatres such as Sadler’s Wells, the Royal Albert Hall, and His Majesty’s Theatre.

Ruth is highly passionate about wellbeing being a mental health survivor and trained psychologist. This is the basis of the nurturing ballet studio she has created, with positive affirmations at the end of all young ballerina’s classes.

Vanessa Threadgold

Assistant Teacher & Project Manager

Vanessa started ballet at the age of 14 after years of dreaming about taking her first class. Although she began later than most dancers, her dedication and determination led her to pursue her passion for ballet. Throughout her journey, she navigated challenges such as microaggressions, stereotypes about her hair and body. These experiences have deeply influenced her commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering space for young dancers.

As our assistant teacher at Pointe Black, Vanessa brings a unique perspective and passion for making ballet accessible to all. Her goal is to foster a supportive and nurturing environment where students can express themselves, grow their skills, and embrace their individuality. 

Previous Guest Teachers

  • José Alves

    FREELANCE PROFESSIONAL ARTIST

    Alves José is a National dance award winner and former Ballet Black Senior Artist. Pointe Black welcomed Jose to our studios for our Summer Intensive August 2023.

  • Isabela Coracy

    BALLET BLACK SENIOR ARTIST

    Coracy Isabela is Senior Artist at Ballet Black, Olivier Award winner and designer for FredSilk. Pointe Black welcomed Isabela as a guest teacher for our adult class Summer 2022.

  • Ben Love

    MALE LEAD SOLOIST DANCER

    Ben Love became the first black male lead soloist dancer with major ballet companies including the Portuguese National Ballet, London City Ballet and Northern Ballet Theatre. Ben Love taught in our Summer Intensive 2023 and continues to be a friend of Pointe Black.

  • Bhungane Mehlomakulu

    BALLET BLACK JUNIOR ARTIST

    Mehlomakulu Bhungane is a Ballet Black artist from South Africa. His unique ballet style fuses ballet and amapiano styles to make ‘Amaballet’. Pointe Black is honoured to have him as our June 2024 guest artist for our adult ballerinas. Book here to be involved.

“Who would have thought, I'd be pointing my toes to RnB! Pointe Black has transformed my idea of ballet and has made it so relatable.I've always shied away from ballet as I felt that I didn't look like your 'traditional' ballerina. Thank you Pointe Black for giving me the opportunity to try out ballet.’’’

— K.J. Adult class