Norwood, the UK children and families charity, has received $10,000 after being nominated by prima ballerina Darcey Bussell, as her charity of choice in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s Fans scheme. The award-winning hotel invited Darcey to nominate her charity of choice and in return, via her manager and long-time Norwood supporter, Steven Howard, the hotel group has donated $10,000 to Norwood.
Darcey Bussell CBE, one of the most inspiring dancers of her generation was awarded her honour in the birthday Honours List of 2006 for achievements at The Royal Ballet. At 19, Darcey was the youngest ever Principal ballerina for The Royal Ballet and she has held that position for 20 successful years.
She has been a supporter of Norwood for many years: she danced for guests at the charity’s annual dinner in 2005. Darcey Bussell said, ‘I’m delighted to nominate Norwood as my charity. It’s important to me that I can help others to achieve their full potential in life.”
During her time at the Royal Ballet, Darcey Bussell’s classical repertory includes Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, Princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty, the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker and the title roles in MacMillan’s Romeo and Juliet and Frederick Ashton’s Cinderella. Bussell has also created many leading roles with choreographers and has guested with many companies throughout the world including New York City Ballet, the Kirov at St. Petersburg, Paris Opera and Balleto della Scala. She has appeared in television galas and programmes.
Norwood Chief Executive, Norma Brier said, “We’re delighted that Darcey Bussell is supporting us again by nominating us as her charity of choice in the Fans of the Mandarin Oriental scheme. We’d like to thank Darcey and the Mandarin Oriental. The money will help Norwood to provide vital support to thousands of children and families coping with disabilities and social difficulties.”
For more information contact Naomi Creeger, PR Manager on 020 8420 6900 or naomi.creeger@norwood.org.uk
