Nikolaj Hübbe, who has served as the ballet master at the Royal Danish Theatre (Det Kongelige Teater), has elected to take an indefinite medical leave of absence. This decision follows a comprehensive investigation into the teaching conditions at the Royal Danish Theatre’s Ballet School (Balletskolen), which revealed serious issues concerning the school environment.

Amy Watson, who has been a part of the Royal Danish Ballet (Den Kongelige Ballet) since 2000, will serve as the acting ballet master during Hübbe’s absence. Theatre director Kasper Holten confirmed that this temporary arrangement was made in consultation with the board until a more permanent solution can be identified.

The problems at the ballet school became significantly apparent following an independent investigation prompted by critical accounts from several students and staff regarding the teaching environment. According to the Danish newspaper Politiken, the culture at the school fostered an atmosphere where children of normal weight as young as nine years old were encouraged to lose weight. Further reports indicated that 17 former students had developed eating disorders, while others battled anxiety and depression. Instances of bullying by teachers and a prevailing culture of fear were also highlighted as major issues.

The investigation, conducted by the law firm Horten, revealed that conditions at the school have improved over time; however, there was still sufficient evidence to warrant disciplinary actions against three staff members. Both Nikolaj Hübbe and Kasper Holten received reprimands from the board as a consequence of the investigation’s findings.

It is clear that Hübbe will conclude his tenure as ballet master when his contract expires in 2026. In the meantime, Watson will take over and attempt to restore calm and stability to the school’s teaching environment while the theatre continues to work on improving conditions and ensuring a better future for the students.