A WINCHESTER ballerina is seeking sponsorship so that she can perform in a lead role in Belgium.

The Florian School of Dance, Winchester, first ignited Tilly Wightman's passion for dance when she was just four years old.

After learning the fundamental elements of ballet, Tilly utilised these skills to progress to Elmhurst Ballet School, Birmingham, when she was eleven. Annette FitzGerald, the principal of the Florian School of Dance, continued to coach Tilly during the holidays.

Two years ago, Tilly, now 18, advanced to the Royal Ballet Upper School in Convent Garden. She has danced at the Royal Opera House and at the Royal Albert Hall. In July, Tilly performed as a principal role ‘Molly’ in the ballet Yondering at Opera Holland Park.

Tilly, from King's Somborne, has been offered one of six places at the Junior Ballet Antwerp in Belgium, and the lead role of Cinderella in the next season.

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Tilly said: “I owe so much to Florian, its community which never fails to welcome me back, their endless faith and the safe space I can always count on to really enjoy dancing. It is this type of environment I am hoping to find at the end of August, when I will become one of six new members to join The Junior Ballet Antwerp a select, pre-professional company where I hope to build the skills needed to enter into full-time employment.

“Living abroad and independently for the first time will be another obstacle which, with the aid and support of a sponsor would really help me to focus on my training, fully appreciate this incredible opportunity and make the most of the next two years in Belgium. If you are interested in helping me take the next steps towards becoming professional dancer, I would love to bring you along with me.”

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