Edward Watson (1976–). British dancer and répétiteur

Edward Watson was born in south London in 1976, and trained at The Royal Ballet School. He graduated into The Royal Ballet in 1994 and was promoted to principal in 2005. His pure classical technique, together with a fine dramatic flair and sensitivity served him well in the works of Frederick Ashton, Kenneth MacMillan and Ninette de Valois herself, choreographers at the heart of the British tradition. He has himself been a major force in the continuation of that tradition.

Apart from lighting up works from the existing repertoire, Watson is noted for his commitment to new work and for his enthusiasm for working with contemporary choreographers. These include Wayne McGregor, Christopher Wheeldon, Kim Brandstrup, Cathy Marston, Arthur Pita, Javier de Frutos and Alexei Ratmansky, among many others.

Edward Watson’s awards and distinctions include the 2012 Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance, the 2015 Benois de la Dance Award and Dance Critics’ Circle Awards in 2001 and 2008. He was appointed an MBE for services to Dance in 2015. He retired from dancing in 2021 and has worked as a guest principal coach for The Royal Ballet and a freelance répétiteur, particularly for the MacMillan repertoire.