Warm rehearsal light settled across the stage as the corps moved into formation. Photographed during rehearsal for Birmingham Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Birmingham Hippodrome on 22 November 2024, the focus remained on timing, spacing and classical line ahead of performance.

Working within a rehearsal setting allowed space to capture transitions as well as full extension. As a Birmingham-based dance photographer, I concentrated on symmetry within ensemble scenes and the clarity of partnered lifts without the distraction of full production lighting.

The images reflect preparation as much as performance, documenting the discipline behind a seasonal classical production.