The 2026 Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition: Final
Royal Academy of Dance
Program notes
For the fourth year in a row, medici.tv is honored to bring you all the drama, athleticism, and artistry of the final round action at The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition! One of the ballet world's most prestigious events since 1931 (formerly known as the Genée in honor of the legendary Adeline Genée, whose name still adorns the gold medal), The Fonteyn unites exceptional young dancers from all over the world in a thrilling contest that offers an invaluable opportunity to work with top choreographers and professionals, compete for medals and cash prizes, and perform before an international audience.
In the 2026 final at the iconic London Coliseum, each candidate performs their own newly choreographed solo, as well as a variation by the great Frederick Ashton. Very special guests from the Royal Ballet include First Artist Marianna Tsembenhoi in a stunning solo, as well as a pas de deux by Principal Dancers Fumi Kaneko and Vadim Muntagirov. This year’s judges are Dame Darcey Bussel (RAD President and Guest Principal Coach of the Royal Ballet), Lynn Wallis (former Artistic Director of the Royal Academy of Dance), Francesca Hayward (Principal of the Royal Ballet), Kevin O'Hare (Director of the Royal Ballet), and Mthuthuzeli November (Resident Choreographer of Charlotte Ballet).





