Overview
- The UK Critics' Circle for Dance selected New National Theatre Ballet as its 2026 Best Company, an honor decided by votes from about 60 member critics.
- The decision cites the company's July 2025 Royal Opera House production of Giselle, which drew strong praise from London reviews and multiple five-star notices.
- Artistic Director Miyako Yoshida, who directed the London run and formerly danced as a principal with the Royal Ballet, said the company felt honored and expressed gratitude at the award.
- The company reports this is the first time a Japanese ballet company has won the Critics' Circle Best Company prize, a milestone for Japan's performing-arts profile overseas.
- The recognition could boost future international opportunities for the company by strengthening its reputation with promoters, critics, and overseas audiences.