The complete Cecchetti Method on DVD and Blu-ray for the first time, demonstrated by some of today’s leading dancers.

Maestro Cav. Enrico Cecchetti (1850–1928) devised his method of training based on sound theoretical and anatomical principles. The Cecchetti Method hinges on a programme set over six days of the week, highlighting the rigorous demands and versatility required to be a professional dancer. Precision and speed of footwork, development of terre-à-terre and batterie technique are key aspects of this virtuoso training method.

The Enrico Cecchetti Diploma is the culmination of the study of the Cecchetti Method. It is designed for professional dancers and there is no equivalent in any other system of training. The Diploma has never before been filmed in its entirety as a heritage, educational project.

In this film, the dancers are instructed via discussion on background and various versions of the exercises and perform all the studies which today make up the Diploma syllabus.

Artistic Director and Master Teacher: Diane van Schoor
Introduced by Dame Darcey Bussell DBE
Director and Producer: Ross MacGibbon

“Maestro Cecchetti left a great imprint on the English School and was my exclusive teacher for four years. The important aspects of his teaching remain a part of the Academic tradition of out English ballet.” - Dame Ninette de Valois DBE

“The Cecchetti work has given me strength, discipline and co-ordination. It wasn’t until I joined the company that I realised how lucky I was to have had that training” - Dame Darcey Bussell DBE

“…if properly absorbed, [it] will be of incalculable use throughout a dancer’s career” - Sir Frederick Ashton

Extra features:
- Diane van Schoor in conversation with dancers
- Directors David Bintley CBE and Kevin O’Hare CBE in discussion

Duration: 220 minutes (Diploma); 9 minutes (Extras)
Audio: Dolby Digital; LPCM Stereo
Subtitles: EN, IT, JP