Growing up in Culcheth, George-Murray Nightingale discovered his passion for dance at a young age. As the youngest in his family, he would watch his sister’s dance classes and imitate her moves, igniting a lifelong love for the art form. This led him to successfully audition for The Hammond, a performing arts school in Chester, before pursuing further training at the English National Ballet in London.
Throughout his career, George-Murray has performed in various countries, including Romania, Germany, and Australia. Despite the glamour of his profession, he emphasizes the sacrifices and challenges he has faced along the way. Being away from home since the age of 11 and working overseas for over a decade has taken a toll on him and his family. However, the applause and recognition he receives after a performance make it all worthwhile.
As a ballet dancer, George-Murray often encounters misconceptions about his profession, such as the idea that dancers do not eat or the assumption that their work is not as physically demanding as other sports. He stresses the athleticism and dedication required to succeed in ballet, likening it to the training of an Olympian.
Having recently auditioned and secured a role in the 30th-anniversary tour of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake, George-Murray is thrilled to be part of a production he has long admired. His passion for Bourne’s work led him to give up a position at the Australian Ballet in order to pursue this opportunity. Rehearsing in London, George-Murray is gearing up for the tour, which will kick off in Plymouth before making its way to The Lowry in Salford.
After a decade of performing without his family in the audience, George-Murray is excited for his loved ones to finally see him dance again. His mother, in particular, has booked tickets to every venue on the tour, eager to support her son. Reflecting on his journey, George-Murray encourages aspiring dancers to explore various forms of performing arts and to stay true to themselves amidst the challenges of training and instruction.
As George-Murray prepares to showcase his talent on an international stage, his story serves as a reminder of the dedication and perseverance required to pursue a career in the arts. His return to the UK for this iconic production tour marks a significant milestone in his career, highlighting the rewards that come from years of hard work and unwavering passion.