BALLET COACHING WITH TARA

Who am I?

Trained by the World's best

I trained at the Paris Opera Ballet School and Canada’s National Ballet School, learning from exceptional teachers including Mavis Staines, Sergiu Stefanschi and Francesca Zumbo. Since joining The Royal Ballet, I have continued to develop my artistry through daily work alongside leading dancers such as Marianela Nuñez, Darcey Bussell and Carlos Acosta, and under the guidance of legendary coaches including Monica Mason, Natalia Makarova and Patricia Neary. I hold the Professional Dancers’ Teaching Diploma from The Royal Ballet School and am an Associate of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. My coaching draws on this lineage to inspire dancers of all ages to work with clarity, confidence and ambition- and to believe in what is possible.

Over 2000 performances at the Royal Opera House

I danced professionally with The Royal Ballet in London for over 20 years, performing a wide range of roles from the corps de ballet through to principal roles. Although most of my performances have been in their historic home in the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, I've also had the privilege to dance on some of the most famous stages across the world, such at the Mariinsky Theatre and Palais Garnier. I continue to perform Principal Character roles as a Guest Artist with The Royal Ballet and Opera.

Get in touch

International Guest Teacher

Alongside my performing career, I have taught ballet internationally, sharing both Royal Ballet repertoire and classical technique. I currently guest teach across a wide range of settings and abilities, from young students at The Royal Ballet School to committed adult dancers of all ages. My goal is the same in every studio I visit: to inspire, to educate and to enjoy the pursuit of excellence. To find out more, please visit my guest teaching page.

Why Ballet Coaching?

Personalised to you

Ballet coaching is designed to develop your dancing and is shaped around your individual goals, body, and way of learning. Rather than following a fixed class structure, sessions focus on detailed observation, thoughtful guidance, and developing a deeper understanding of both technique and artistry. Coaching with me is available for everyone, no matter your level or age. Sessions are usually one-to-one, though I also offer duet coaching, where two dancers share a session in a supportive, less intimidating environment while still receiving individual corrections. Observing how guidance applies to another dancer can help deepen understanding and clarify how adjustments relate to your own dancing.

I have helped students with:

Audition and exam prep (inc. photos and videos)
Pointe work
Coaching for variations/solos
Solo creations (choreographed to suit your abilities)
Posture, Deportment and Confidence
Strength and Flexibility
Injury rehabilitation
Career assessment
And much more!

Testimonials

Train from anywhere

Private one-to-one coaching takes place in my home studio in Kenley, CR8, on the outskirts of London and easily accessible by public transport. I also teach online, allowing dancers to train from the convenience of their own home or studio - all you need is a barre or something to hold onto, a little space, and a reliable
Wi-Fi connection.

What dancers and parents have to say

Would you recommend training with Tara?
Absolutely, 100%! With Tara I know my daughter is in safe hands and I am confident Tara knows what will benefit...

How do you find communicating with Tara?
Amazing communication. Very warm, approachable and accommodating. We found that Tara tries as much as...

What made you choose Tara?
I follow Tara on Instagram and my daughter very much looks up to her. A lovely bonus of course is having...

Why did you find the need for private lessons?
I thought it would be nice to have a fresh pair of eyes to look at and teach my daughter, to maybe pick up on...

Frequently asked questions

Do you work with young dancers?
Yes. I work with dancers from around the age of 8 who show a strong interest in ballet and a willingness to develop sound technique. I hold an Enhanced DBS check and have extensive experience working with children and young people in professional, educational, and participatory settings.

Can you help with ballet audition photographs and videos?
Yes. I support dancers with both audition photographs and video submissions, helping them present their dancing clearly and confidently. I can also assist with editing and uploading videos to reduce the stress of applications. Many dancers I’ve coached have gone on to receive in-person auditions and vocational school offers.

Is private ballet coaching suitable for beginners or returning dancers?
Absolutely. Ballet coaching is well suited to beginners and to dancers returning after a break. Sessions are adapted to your current level and may include strength-based or Pilates-inspired exercises to support technical understanding, coordination, and confidence.

I attend open classes but feel stuck - can coaching help?
Yes. This is very common. In open classes there is often limited opportunity for individual feedback. Private ballet coaching allows us to focus entirely on your dancing, helping you gain clarity, address specific challenges, and continue progressing with greater confidence and direction.

Can you come and teach at my school?
Yes. I regularly guest teach at dance schools, vocational institutions, companies, and other organisations in the UK and internationally. This can include technique classes, repertoire, coaching, or tailored workshops. Please visit the Guest Teaching page to find out more and to enquire about availability and fees.