Additional ballet dancers come forward with claims of body-shaming and harassment at British ballet schools

Several ballet dancers have come forward to describe body-shaming and bullying experiences at schools across the UK, following a BBC investigation earlier this year. One former student of Elmhurst Ballet School revealed that she was locked in a room by staff while going through a mental health crisis. Another dancer developed anorexia and contemplated suicide after attending London Vocational Ballet School. Both schools denied the allegations, stating that student welfare was a priority. Over 100 former dancers from various UK schools have now spoken to the BBC, all claiming to have experienced a toxic culture. The investigation initially focused on the Royal Ballet School in London and Elmhurst Ballet School in Birmingham but has since expanded to include London Vocational Ballet School. The new allegations highlight the need for change within the ballet industry.