Why Elmhurst? Interview with Elmhurst Alum, Nicholas Hepher

Friday September 26^th 2025

Nicholas Hepher joined our Lower School in 2016 from his local dance school, Chelsea Ballet Schools, in London.

In his eight years, he embraced School life: winning School awards including the ‘Live Award’ twice and the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Elmhurst Award’, making lifelong friendships and earning two A-Levels and a Diploma.

Following his graduation in 2024, Nicholas joined the company of The Phantom of the Opera in London’s West End. In his first year, he has performed several roles including those of the male ballet dancer, the masquerade dancer, the Shepherd, and Hannibal’s Guard.

A year on from graduating, Nicholas reflected on his experience at Elmhurst and how it shaped his career.

How did your artistic training with Elmhurst Ballet School shape you as a performer and prepare you for a career in dance?

From an artistic standpoint, I came to understand what true discipline means as a performer. Doing eight shows a week for an entire year demands consistency in every aspect of performance. Audience members are experiencing the show for the first time, and for many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially given the cost of tickets. That means it’s my responsibility to deliver the same high standard every single time, regardless of how I’m feeling that day. Of course, not every day is your best. No one is at their peak while performing eight shows across six days a week but discipline ensures you give the audience your very best. That’s something Elmhurst instilled in me throughout my eight years there, and it’s been invaluable.

Another challenge I faced when joining Phantom was learning choreography quickly. To my surprise, I picked up the steps far more easily than I expected, and I credit Elmhurst’s training for that. The school’s constant variety ot different styles, steps, and repertoire each week trained my brain to adapt quickly. So, when I had just three to four weeks of rehearsals before moving on to shows at Phantom, I was prepared. What I’d once been afraid of turned into something I could handle with relative ease.

Elmhurst also shaped me as an artist by teaching me how to bring individuality to my roles. Every character needs a unique spin, and I learned to find mine. For example, as the Shepherd character in Phantom, my job is to make the audience laugh using only facial expressions. That’s a skill I once struggled with during performances at Elmhurst when I was younger, but over time I learned to unlock that side of myself. Now, it’s helped me a lot with performing this role.

Most importantly, Elmhurst gave me the privilege of learning from extraordinary teachers, guest artists, and choreographers. Their wealth of knowledge was immense, more than I realised at the time. Looking back, I see how they modelled artistry: observing choreographers closely, taking each step, and making it their own. That example stayed with me. Today, it’s embedded in my approach, pushing me to dig deeper and bring the best out of every performance.

I’d still love to join a dance company someday. I’m now in my second year with Phantom, and I love musical theatre and it’s an incredible experience - eight shows a week, full of energy and fun. But I feel drawn to the idea of exploring life with a dance company too at some point in the future, just to experience both worlds. That way, I can truly say I’ve had the best of both. It’s something I want to try at some point, but there’s no rush! I’m still very happy in the Phantom company.

How did you find balancing your artistic training and academic studies?

At first, I found it really challenging. Everything felt so new and different. I’d gone from taking three classes a week at my local ballet school to suddenly doing full days of training, from 8am to 6pm. It was a huge adjustment. Over time, I gradually settled into the routine, but in year 7 I struggled with homesickness. Being away from my family was the hardest part. I’d spend hours on the phone to my mum, begging her to let me come home, but she encouraged me to give it more time. Thankfully, I did, and eventually it all worked out.

For me, the biggest challenge wasn’t balancing the artistic training with the academics, I managed that part fine. What I really found difficult was getting into the right mindset when constantly switching between dancing and studying. That transition was sometimes tough.

Looking back, I value the academic qualifications I gained at Elmhurst just as much as the artistic training. The reality is that finding steady work as a performer is incredibly difficult, so having a Plan B is essential. Right now, I’m exploring training as a masseuse. Performing careers can be unpredictable as you might freelance and then go months without work. That’s why having another skill to fall back on is so important.

How did the pastoral and healthcare staff support you during your time at the School?

The support I received made an enormous difference. When I was in Years 7 and 8 and feeling particularly homesick, the house parents became like surrogate parents to me. It meant so much to see them every day, to be able to talk to them, and to know they were looking out for me. They checked in regularly, and we built a really strong relationship. I still keep in touch with some of them now, and I feel such a close bond because they were there for me at my lowest moments. I desperately wanted to be at home, but they made Elmhurst feel like home instead and that mattered not just to me, but to my family too. It truly was a team effort to make me feel safe and settled. The house parent team is second to none, and I cannot thank them enough. Without their care, I don’t think I would have stayed at Elmhurst as long as I did. They really helped me through. And of course, I have to mention Miss Lester, she’d never forgive me if I didn’t!

In Year 13, I injured my ankle, and the physio team were equally incredible. They guided me through the recovery process in the best possible way, helping me come back stronger and more motivated than ever. In many ways, that injury was a turning point: it forced me to put in the work and gave me a fresh determination to push forward. Their support was not only physical but also mental. Being injured while watching everyone else dance is incredibly tough, but they understood that struggle and supported me through it. Thanks to them, I was able to return to my best level again, both physically and mentally.

What are the teaching staff at the School like?

The teachers are absolutely incredible. Every single one of them makes you feel like part of a family. I built real, meaningful relationships with my teachers, and that connection made such a difference to my growth and confidence. They genuinely care about building those relationships, which was so important for me and played a vital role in my improvement.

The academic staff were especially supportive. Living with dyslexia, I was always met with patience and understanding. They went above and beyond to make sure I had the help I needed, even when I insisted I didn’t. My mum and I will always be grateful for that unwavering support.

The artistic teachers were just as inspiring. Their passion for dance and their genuine care for their students filled the studio with an energy that motivated everyone. It created an environment where we could not only train to reach our highest potential but also truly enjoy the art of dance.

How would you describe the School’s atmosphere?

The atmosphere at Elmhurst was always so uplifting, positive, friendly, and full of life, whilst at the same time motivating, supportive, and inspiring. That’s exactly how I remember it when I look back now. You couldn’t walk through the school without hearing laughter somewhere, and that’s what I loved most about it: the constant energy and good vibes everywhere.

I always looked forward to coming back after the holidays to see my friends, my teachers, and everyone else. The school had a spirit like no other, and I loved being part of it. As an international school, it brought together people from so many different cultures, and yet everything blended so naturally into one community.

Even now, I still feel like part of the Elmhurst family. If I returned today, I know it would feel exactly the same. In many ways, I don’t feel as though I ever truly left and a part of me will always remain there.

What are some of your fondest memories of your time at the School?

Performing in the summer shows was always such a joy. Being on stage with your friends felt like such a privilege, even if at the time you didn’t realise just how special it was. Sharing that experience with the people you grew up with, performing for your families and loved ones, it created memories that stay with you forever. Looking back now, I see how truly incredible it was to have that opportunity.

Spending every day with your friends during that time felt almost magical. You lived alongside them constantly, sharing every moment—the good and the bad. They were there through everything, and those bonds became lifelong friendships. It was such a unique time in life, being so close, knowing they’d always be by your side. When it’s gone, you really feel the change but in the moment, it was pure magic.

What advice would you give young dancers considering applying to Elmhurst Ballet School?

Do it as you won’t regret it. Elmhurst is such a special place, filled with support and care. The people there genuinely look out for you, and you’ll form friendships that last a lifetime. From the teaching to the dancing and everything in between, every part of the experience helps you grow, not just as an artist, but as a person. In my eyes, there’s truly no better place to grow up.

Of course, not everyone will go on to become a professional dancer, but Elmhurst shapes you into something even more important: a kind, generous, and grounded human being. The school is full of the most caring and gentle people and being surrounded by them transforms you. They bring out your joy, your pride, and your best self.

You can always spot an Elmhurst student in a crowd. They’re the ones radiating friendliness and warmth. That’s the magic of this place. Elmhurst isn’t just about dance; it’s about becoming the best version of yourself. It’s an experience filled with joy, growth, and incredible people, all within a building that feels like home.