En Pointe Patrons support the staging of an iconic ballet
In March, the RNZB Foundation hosted En Pointe Patron events in Auckland and Wellington. Through their annual giving, En Pointe Patrons contribute to RNZB projects while also helping to grow the Foundation’s long-term fund for the future of ballet in Aotearoa.
The Auckland gathering was hosted by Foundation Trustee Louise Binns and her husband Mark. Guests enjoyed a short performance by RNZB Choreographer in Residence and Soloist Shaun James Kelly who danced an excerpt from Scottish themed ballet ‘Nae Regrets’.
The Wellington event was hosted by Foundation Trustee Ann-Louise Gower and her husband Campbell. Both occasions gave patrons the opportunity to meet with RNZB leadership and artists, and to hear more about Company news and performances coming up in 2026.
This year, En Pointe Patrons voted to support the costs associated with the staging of Sir Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering, which will be performed as part of the RNZB’s Winter Season in July 2026.
Rowena Jackson in Sir Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering
© Roger Wood / Royal Ballet and Opera / ArenaPAL
Sir Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering
Birthday Offering was choreographed by Ashton in 1956 in celebration of The Royal Ballet’s 25th anniversary. This radiant work showcased the talents of 14 exceptional dancers, led by Margot Fonteyn. The original cast also included four dancers with strong connections to the Royal New Zealand Ballet: Rowena Jackson, Philip Chatfield, Bryan Ashbridge and Alexander Grant.
The RNZB is honoured to have the opportunity to present this special ballet as part of the Ashton Worldwide festival. The staging of Birthday Offering will be overseen by former Royal Ballet Principal Laura Morera, regarded as one of the finest Ashton interpreters of her generation.
This new staging of Birthday Offering represents a rare and special opportunity for both artists and audiences to experience Ashton’s exquisite choreography. It is also a chance for the RNZB to celebrate the life and contribution of Rowena Jackson, whose centenary is being marked this year.
The RNZB Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to En Pointe Patrons for their generosity, enthusiasm and shared commitment to a flourishing future for ballet in Aotearoa.