Elizabeth McGorian

Elizabeth McGorian, previously known as Sharon McGorian, is an esteemed Principal Character Artist with The Royal Ballet, a position she has held since 1997 after rising through the ranks from Soloist in 1991. Her journey with the company began in 1977, following her remarkable victory at the Adeline Genée International Ballet Competition in the same year. Born in Zambia and educated at the Mercia Hetherington School in Zimbabwe, McGorian further honed her craft at The Royal Ballet Upper School starting in 1976.

Throughout her illustrious career, she has portrayed a diverse array of characters, showcasing her versatility on stage. Notable roles include Lady Capulet in "Romeo and Juliet," the Empress Elisabeth and Helene Vetsera in "Mayerling," and Madge in "La Sylphide." Her performances as the Queen and Carabosse in "The Sleeping Beauty" and as Madame in "Manon" are particularly celebrated. McGorian has also contributed to contemporary works, creating characters such as Marie Virginie Avegno in "Strapless" and Madame Moritz in "Frankenstein."

In the 2019/20 Season, she expanded her repertoire by performing the role of Lady of the Pearls in "Death in Venice" for The Royal Opera. Beyond her work with The Royal Ballet, she has collaborated with renowned artists like Natalia Osipova and Ivan Vasiliev in Arthur Pita’s "Facada," and appeared in the feature dance film "Young Men" by BalletBoyz, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and accomplished dancer.