Ballet Ireland, The National Ballet of Ireland, was established in 1998 by Gunther Falusy and Anne Maher. The company performs classical repertoire such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker while supporting the development of new work. Ballet Ireland is committed to bringing professional ballet productions of the highest standards to audiences throughout Ireland through touring nationwide each spring and autumn. In recent years the company has focused on developing new, innovative narrative work and has become known for attracting a particularly rare calibre of dancer, one that is classically trained yet able to be actively involved in the creative process. As part of this direction Morgann Runacre-Temple was appointed Choreographer, and new work by new and noteworthy choreographers, such as Ludovic Ondiviela, have been invited to work with the company. In addition to professional performances, Ballet Ireland is committed to cultivating the talent and audiences of the future. The Education Programme facilitates workshops in primary and secondary schools, both for those with and without formal training. Our summer schools, held in theatres throughout the country, give aspiring young students daily workshops, culminating in an onstage performance with dancers from the company. These opportunities create unforgettable experiences for the participants and their families. Ballet Ireland is funded by the Arts Council and receives support from Culture Ireland when touring to the UK.