Abigail Prudames Announces Retirement - Northern Ballet's Premier Dancer

After a distinguished career, Premier Dancer Abigail Prudames will retire from Northern Ballet this June. Prudames, who has been a part of the company since 2011, will be taking her final bow, leaving behind a legacy of stunning performances and significant contributions to the art of ballet.

A Journey from Knaresborough to Premier Dancer

Abigail Prudames grew up in the picturesque town of Knaresborough and showed a passion for dance from a young age. She trained with The Royal Ballet and Elmhurst Ballet School, two prestigious institutions known for shaping world-class dancers. Her journey with Northern Ballet began when she joined the company as an apprentice, quickly rising through the ranks due to her exceptional talent and dedication.

Celebrated Roles and Performances

Throughout her illustrious career with Northern Ballet, Prudames has captivated audiences with her portrayal of numerous iconic roles. She is particularly celebrated for her performances in David Nixon CBE’s "The Little Mermaid" and Cathy Marston’s "Victoria". Her ability to convey deep and complex emotions on stage has earned her widespread acclaim and a dedicated following.

The Little Mermaid

In "The Little Mermaid", Prudames brought to life the tragic and enchanting tale of the mermaid who sacrifices everything for love. Her portrayal was noted for its emotional depth and technical precision, making it one of her standout roles.

Victoria

In "Victoria", Prudames played the role of Queen Victoria with a nuanced performance that captured the monarch's strength, vulnerability, and profound love for Prince Albert. Her interpretation added a new dimension to the historical figure, drawing praise from critics and audiences alike.

A Leader On and Off the Stage

Abigail Prudames has been more than just a dancer; she has been a leader and mentor within the Northern Ballet community.

Her commitment to the art form and her colleagues has left a lasting impact on the company. Artistic Director Federico Bonelli praised her for her natural talent and studious approach to embodying complex emotions on stage, noting that her reputation extends far beyond the company’s walls.

Final Performance

Prudames' farewell performance will be as Juliet in Christopher Gable CBE and Massimo Moricone's "Romeo & Juliet" at Sadler’s Wells. Scheduled for Saturday, June 1, at 7:30 pm, this performance will be a poignant finale to her career, allowing audiences one last opportunity to witness her extraordinary artistry. She will be performing opposite her long-time dance partner Joseph Taylor as Romeo, adding an extra layer of emotional resonance to the event.

Looking Ahead

While her departure marks the end of an era for Northern Ballet, the future holds exciting possibilities for Abigail Prudames. Federico Bonelli expressed both sadness at her departure and optimism for her future endeavors, wishing her all the best as she moves forward.

For those wishing to see Abigail Prudames' final performance and celebrate her remarkable career, tickets and more information are available at Sadler's Wells.