22 November 2019 10:21

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall meets Silver Swans in New Zealand

The Duchess watched a demonstration class led by Silver Swans Licensee Celia Bosman, before talking to the group about how experiencing ballet as an older learner has improved their wellbeing, and the many benefits of ballet for all ages.

The class was part of an Active Ageing event held during The Duchess’ tour of New Zealand. Her Royal Highness also met a range of older people taking part in group activities including singing and cooking.

Her Royal Highness has met Silver Swans before, when the RAD had the opportunity to welcome her to its headquarters in London and introduce her to the project and its wide reaching benefits for older learners. During the visit last year, having seen a class in action, The Duchess declared that she too would like to join the ranks of the Silver Swans.

Royal Academy of Dance National Director for New Zealand, Bronwyn Williams, said of the visit: “It was a huge honour to introduce HRH The Duchess of Cornwall to some of our Silver Swans in New Zealand. While The Duchess has had the opportunity to watch a class in the UK, I think it is so important to see how initiatives such as this can influence communities across the world. Ballet has the opportunity to enhance lives, regardless of age, background or geography. Here in New Zealand, we have been delighted to see how Silver Swans has benefitted so many in such a short time. I am very pleased that Her Royal Highness was able to see for herself the holistic benefits of ballet and its contribution to creating positive, healthy habits as we get older.”