In July 2025, Elmhurst Ballet School will present Voices and Virtues, a 90-minute mixed bill of ballet and contemporary dance, performed at the Elmhurst Ballet School theatre. The programme will celebrate the duality of dynamic, fresh ideas alongside deeply respected values and tradition within both our ballet world and wider community.
 
Thanks to the support of The Westhill Endowment, Elmhurst have commissioned choreographer, Miguel Altunaga, to create the centre piece work of the show's programme "Ek.sta.sis". 
 
Miguel Altunaga has been working with students aged 17-18 to create this work around the theme of cultural cohesion and community, drawing on the experiences of the students’ varied backgrounds and personal experiences, as well as taking inspiration from the culturally diverse city of Birmingham.

An inspirational and innovative force within the dance world, Miguel was commissioned in 2021 by Birmingham Royal Ballet to create “City of 1000 Trades” a highly celebrated ode to Birmingham’s industrial heritage and spirit.

This new commission brings Miguel back to Birmingham, to work with and inspire a new generation of innovators and creatives with a message of hope and common ground. 

Elmhurst Ballet School has partnered with 8 local schools (a diverse mix of faith and non-faith schools) to join us as audience members for the Voice and Virtues show and the premiere of Ek.sta.sis.