Blog
Passion and Plies - Karen Ritchie
Posted by: Karen Ritchie on 7 April 2010
When my library book mentioned the large skylight in Marie Rambert's first studio, I was able to say with great authority it is still there; casting sunlight across the parquet flooring of that amazing room and all its history (well it would if it hadn't been chucking it down with rain at the time).
I know this because I was there, at Bedford Gardens, Notting Hill Gate, just last week as part of Rambert's Oral History Project. This was the first interview for Jane and me; Sally is more experienced and therefore took the lead this time. We were a little nervous, not surprisingly, but that soon evaporated when we were greeted so warmly by Roger, a very sprightly and charming man who still teaches both here and in Paris. He prepared for our visit with a wealth of photos of his time with Rambert and once the recording equipment was all set up he regaled us with some delightful stories and memories, all while sitting in that fabulous setting.
Roger danced with the Company for about two years, at the time of Walter Gore and Sally Gilmour, before realising that he needed to follow his own path - to the chagrin of ‘Mim' (Marie Rambert), although they became friends again in later years. His passion for his art form is evident in everything he says and it was a joy to be able to share some of that with him. After the interview Jane could not resist a few pliés at the barre, just to be able to say that she had worked in that studio, and she was treated to some impromptu tuition from Roger. It was a very fitting end to a very enjoyable interview, part of which will be available soon on the website.
Jane Napier receives tuition from Roger Tully.
It is a huge privilege to be asked to take part in the Oral History Project; I love this company and its history and our thanks to Sally Gilbert for inviting both me and Jane to take part. We hope to have more interviews soon and we'll report our progress in the blog.
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