Have you 'HIRD'? in Toronto

Last weekend, Margaret Tracey and I visited our close neighbor - home to the CN Tower and the Blue Jays - Toronto. After a very early flight direct to Toronto City airport (Porter Airlines - very convenient and excellent service), we took the world's shortest ferry ride from Toronto island to the city.

We spent two days visiting Canada's National Ballet School and were warmly welcomed by Artistic Director Mavis Staines. We had the chance to observe classes in their stunning building, including seeing two NBS students who had come to Summer Dance Program last year as part of the exchange we have between our two schools. Another former exchange student is now an apprentice with the National Ballet of Canada.

Sunday took me to cold Calgary, where I was welcomed by Murray Kilgour, Director of the School of Alberta Ballet. His wife Nancy had taught me as a child in England - this dance world is very small!

Next stop is the highlight of my year - representing Boston Ballet in Europe. Find out how I get on in my next blog post!

BBS Artistic Manager Christopher Hird.