Maria Seletskaja wins Outstanding Creative Contribution Award

The awards, presented annually by the Critics’ Circle, celebrate excellence across the UK dance sector. Maria accepted the award via a video message at the ceremony in London on 15 June, thanking both the Critics’ Circle and her colleagues across English National Ballet.

Reflecting on her career journey, Maria said:

I started my career as a ballet dancer and when I moved into the world of conducting, I often felt I was going where I didn’t quite belong – so awards like this have a wonderful ability to silence imposter syndrome. What matters most is the feeling that my work matters and knowing that the musical contribution to a ballet production can truly make a difference.

It’s wonderful to see Maria‘s work recognised in this way and to celebrate this achievement with her.

The awards also brought wider recognition for our Company. We received four nominations in total, including for the Stef Stefanou Award for Outstanding Company. Lead Principal Sangeun Lee was nominated for Best Female Dancer and Lead Principal Gareth Haw was nominated for Best Male Dancer.

Aaron S. Watkin, Artistic Director of English National Ballet also commented:

I’m thrilled that Maria has won this well-deserved award – she truly is inspiring. And congratulations to all our nominees. It’s wonderful that the talent and dedication of our Company has been recognised in this way.

Congratulations to all our nominees and thank you to everyone across the company whose work continues to inspire our audiences.