The Royal Ballet School (RBS) has settled a legal claim with former student Ellen Elphick, marking what is believed to be the first financial agreement of its kind over body-shaming allegations within the prestigious institution. This groundbreaking settlement followed claims by Elphick, who attended RBS from 2009 to 2012, asserting the damaging impact of body-shaming comments made by teachers during her formative years.
At 31, Elphick described how the emotional trauma inflicted upon her throughout her time at RBS led to serious psychological ramifications. "If I had a knife, this is what I would cut off," she recounted one teacher’s horrifying remarks, which included tracing her body outline and calling attention to parts of her physique deemed undesirable. Elphick endured multiple instances of humiliation, which contributed to her developing atypical anorexia and body dysmorphia, hindering her dream of pursuing dancing as a career.
Represented by Leigh Day solicitors, she pursued legal action after concluding, "I felt there could have been different approaches to teaching during my time there". A spokesperson for RBS acknowledged the settlement, emphasizing, "We are pleased both parties were able to reach a mutually acceptable agreement... and we wish Ellen and her family well for the future." Notably, the school has neither admitted liability nor issued an apology, stating they continue to prioritize student welfare.
Elphick’s allegations were part of a broader issue outlined by over 50 former dancers who reported experiencing body shaming and bullying at various UK ballet schools. This toxic culture has been implicated by many, including Elphick, as one contributing factor leading to life-altering mental health issues among students. "This settlement highlights the abuse dancers have suffered and the need for change," said Dino Nocivelli, Elphick’s attorney, adding, "It is time the ballet community accepts the duty of care it owes to its dancers, and significantly changes for the future."
After years of keeping silent about her experiences, Elphick now hopes her case will ignite discussions around mental health support and systemic reforms within ballet education. "I decided to bring attention to this because I want to raise awareness about what being a ballerina is really like and show what happened to me was unacceptable," she said. Elphick now wishes to shield her daughter from the world of ballet, expressing her concerns about how the culture has influenced her own life.
Despite feeling validated by the outcome of the settlement, Elphick expressed frustration at the lack of acknowledgment from RBS. It serves as yet another reminder of the often harsh critiques faced by aspiring dancers, underscoring the long-standing stigma surrounding body image within the dance industry. "That they couldn't even say 'sorry' shows there is so much more to do," said Elphick, signaling the urgent need for reform.
The impact of body-shaming can be devastating, as demonstrated by Elphick’s lasting struggles with body dysmorphia. She has shared her memories of being publicly scorned by teachers, being poked without consent, and even praised when losing weight dramatically. "There was never really any focus on health or wellbeing; it was always about being skinny." These experiences prompted her to engage with young students suffering similar issues, offering mentorship and guidance based on her painful encounters.
Ongoing concerns about body image and mental health in ballet have prompted calls for investigations, including appeals for governmental inquiry. Dino Nocivelli stated, "We cannot stand by and allow another generation of ballet dancers to suffer through the same harmful culture." He outlined the shared desire for the dance community to recognize its downfall and commit to active changes aimed at ensuring future dancers are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
Elphick’s hope for systemic change extends to education practices and teacher training at ballet schools. She believes there is urgency to establish protocols focused on mental health and wellbeing within dance programs. Without proper attention, the next generation risks inheriting the same damaging environment. "RBS needs to lead the way and show health and wellbeing matter more than just dancing. Children should be able to pursue dance without feeling damaged afterward," said Elphick, encapsulating her mission to protect young dancers from similar experiences.
With the settlement now finalized, Ellen Elphick’s story stands as both cautionary and inspirational. It emphasizes the responsibility of educational institutions to prioritize the welfare of every student, ensuring the environment supports artistry and self-expression free of trauma. Her valiant pursuit of acknowledgment and reform speaks to the greater need for sensitivity and care within ballet—and the hope for long-lasting changes might finally be realized.