Carlos Acosta: Dancing Legend’s Remarkable Year of Achievements and Innovation in British Theatre

A Year of Distinguished Recognition

Carlos Acosta CBE, the current Director of the Birmingham Royal Ballet, is set to receive the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre Award at the UK Theatre Awards 2025, scheduled for Sunday 12 October at 8 Northumberland Avenue.

Adding to his accolades, Acosta was recently awarded an honorary degree during the University of Birmingham’s Summer 2025 graduations, recognizing his exceptional contributions to dance and education.

Innovative Leadership and Creative Vision

Under Acosta’s leadership as Director of the Birmingham Royal Ballet, he has broken new ground with ambitious programming that continues to expand and develop dance audiences of the future. His innovative approach was exemplified by the company’s landmark performance of ‘Black Sabbath – The Ballet’ at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., which boldly merged heavy metal with classical ballet.

In 2025, Acosta has created a brand-new gala production featuring highlights from the repertory of Serge Diaghilev’s troupe, as part of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s BRB2’s third UK tour. This initiative brings together some of the world’s best young dancers, showcasing the international stars of the future.

Future Projects and Vision

Looking ahead, Acosta is preparing for an ambitious new project: ‘The Maiden of Venice,’ his reimagining of La Bayadère, which will premiere at Birmingham Hippodrome in September 2026. This adaptation moves the setting from ancient India to Renaissance Venice, demonstrating Acosta’s sensitivity to cultural issues while preserving the ballet’s artistic essence.

Legacy and Impact

Acosta’s commitment to supporting talent and philanthropy continues through the Acosta Dance Foundation and Acosta Danza Academy in Havana, which provides free education for talented young dancers and choreographers. As he acknowledged in his acceptance speech for the UK Theatre Award, his achievements have been made possible by ‘the brilliant Creative Industries producing great theatre in creative hubs in every part of the UK,’ celebrating the communities and venues that support the arts.