2008 Awardee: Richard Hackett
I am over the moon to have won a place at Central School of Ballet where I can work hard to develop my dance skills, and extremely grateful to the Dewar Awards without whose support this would not be possible.
Biography
From Bishopton, Renfrewshire, Richard Hackett showed a natural ability for dance from an early age. He joined the Scottish Ballet’s Associate Programme when he was nine and was a pupil for six years at the Dance School of Scotland, in Knightswood. Richard performed his first main ballet role when he was 15 years, as James in La Sylphide by the Scottish Ballet.
Richard was seen as a talented and committed dance student at the Dance School, winning a number of prestigious prizes and awards along the way, including the Choreography Competition, the progress prize in 2004 and 2006, the Randak Trophy for Achievement in 2007. He featured in the school’s Showcase each year.
Richard auditioned for, and was offered a place by, three of the top dance schools in London. He chose to study at Central School of Ballet which, he explains, will enable him to combine a strong classical technique with more contemporary movement.
Richard is a highly motivated and committed dancer and believes that he will be able to develop his potential to the fullest at Central School of Ballet. His long-term aim is to dance with one of the top ballet companies.
How the Award Helped
The Dewar Arts Award is helping to support Richard while he studies at the Central School of Ballet in London.
Since the Award
After a successful first year, Richard’s funding has been extended for a second year.
I am over the moon to have won a place at Central School of Ballet where I can work hard to develop my dance skills, and extremely grateful to the Dewar Awards without whose support this would not be possible.