**Grande Dame Hangs Up Her Ballet Shoes at 89**
In the world of ballet, few names stand out as prominently as Sheena Gough’s. Despite her 89 years, she continues to showcase impressive flexibility and elegance, effortlessly lifting her leg onto a ballet barre to demonstrate graceful movements to her devoted students. Yet, after a remarkable 72-year career, Gough has made the difficult decision to retire and hang up her ballet shoes. Her departure signifies the end of an era for many who have traveled countless miles to attend her renowned classes.
Educated in both London and Paris, Gough has spent a significant portion of her life dedicated to the art of dance. Recently, she held her final class in the Stockbridge area of Edinburgh, an event that elicited poignant sentiments from her students. BBC Scotland News attended this memorable occasion, where many admitted it felt like a farewell to an integral part of their lives. Students had expressed their satisfaction and sorrow, acknowledging that their teacher was not merely a ballet instructor, but a beacon of inspiration and a source of profound knowledge in their dance journey.
Sheena first began her ballet education at the Scottish School of Ballet in Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh, enrolling at the tender age of 14. Her talent quickly caught the eye of Anton Dolin, a celebrated English ballet dancer and choreographer, who encouraged her parents to send her to Paris for advanced training under the revered Olga Preobrajenska, known for coaching elite dancers from around the globe. Gough recalls the nerves of being dropped off at a stranger’s flat in Paris for lessons, a pivotal moment that would shape her future.
At 17, Sheena’s time in Paris brought her into contact with illustrious peers, including the iconic Margot Fonteyn, who also trained under Preobrajenska. The experience was exhilarating yet daunting for young Gough. Despite the challenges, these formative years solidified her passion for dance, a passion that would later translate into a fulfilling teaching career.
A turning point occurred when Gough sustained an injury to her ankle while performing pointe work in London. Forced to return to Edinburgh for recovery, she pivoted from aspiring performer to teacher. This transition unveiled a new passion as she discovered that her contentment stemmed from teaching rather than performing. Since then, she has devoted her life to sharing her expertise with others, guiding generations of dancers in their pursuits.
Notably, Ian Johnston, a dedicated student who travels a grueling 200 miles round trip each week from Carlisle to attend Gough’s classes, reflects on her unparalleled teaching style. He emphasizes that Gough remains a remarkable figure in dance education, inspiring him and his son, Sandy, who also participates in her lessons, to strive for excellence. Johnston’s heartfelt initiative to share Gough’s story with the BBC underscores the profound impact she has had on her students.
As Gough transitions into retirement, she expresses her intent to focus on activities outside the dance studio, such as gardening and preparing her home, while hinting at ongoing requests for private lessons. Her pupils express deep sentiments regarding her departure, with many highlighting the unforgettable experiences they shared under her tutelage.
Gough leaves behind a rich legacy, having influenced numerous students who have later succeeded in prestigious institutions, including the Royal Ballet and Scottish Ballet. She continues to be seen as a guiding light in the community, and the heartfelt tributes from her students reaffirm her role not just as a teacher but as a mentor who nurtured and shaped their passion for dance. As Sheena Gough bids farewell to her beloved ballet shoes, she steps into a new chapter, leaving an indelible mark on the ballet world that will surely echo for years to come.