Name: Tess Elkington

Age: 22

Where are you from? Birmingham

I am currently… Completing an internship at Birmingham Arts School, an organisation that connects schools with arts organisations.

I am a LEAP Ambassador because… I recognise the value that the arts hold for all people for growth and joy, and have always admired the challenge, skill, discipline, and beauty of ballet. As a beneficiary of the Dance Track programme myself, I understand why the work the LEAP department delivers is so important for young people, and I’m eager to help create more opportunities for others to experience what I did.

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about the performing arts and I love to watch live performances. I also love literature and am currently volunteering at Selly Oak Library, helping with their children’s storytelling sessions. I have a passion for media, and was the host of a weekly university radio show called Reel Sounds where I discussed and analysed film and tv shows, and played their soundtracks.

An interesting fact about me is… when I saw Hamilton on the West End for the first time at 16 I was so overwhelmed and excited by the whole experience I cried throughout the entire thing (two and a half hours straight!)

My first encounter with Birmingham Royal Ballet was… joining the Dance Track programme when I was 6!