Federico Bonelli (1978–). Italian dancer, teacher and director

Federico Bonelli was born in Genoa, Italy, in 1978 and trained at the Turin Dance Academy. In 1996 he graduated into the Zurich Ballet, where he danced for three years. He joined Dutch National Ballet in 1999, where he was promoted to principal in 2002. In 2003 he moved to The Royal Ballet in London, where his career blossomed. His immaculate technique and exquisite stage manners marked him out in the existing 19th Century ballets, but it was his ability to shine in the variety of styles that allowed him to flourish in the company’s extensive repertoire. In 2018 he was awarded a place on the Clore Leadership Programme, and in 2022, after a glittering and exciting 18 years with The Royal Ballet, he became artistic director of Northern Ballet.