Mary, Queen of Scots Award Nominations
Mary, Queen of Scots Celebrated with Three Major Nominations for the National Dance Awards 2026
The National Dance Awards 2026 have unveiled their shortlist, and Mary, Queen of Scots has emerged as one of this year’s most acclaimed productions, earning three nominations across the categories.
Choreographer Sophie Laplane has been nominated for Best Classical Choreography for Mary, Queen of Scots, which has been recognised by critics for its inventive storytelling and powerful visuals.
“With bold imagery, adventurous storytelling, and incredible performances Mary, Queen of Scots is an exhilarating modern ballet and a true masterpiece.” – Broadway World
“Dramatic, intimate, and visually striking – Sophie Laplane and James Bonas’s brand new ballet, Mary Queen of Scots, is a gothic reimagining of the young queen’s life.” – Scottish Field
“One of the most visually captivating and emotionally arresting shows ever to emerge from the Scottish Ballet stable.‘Mary, Queen Of Scots isn’t just a gift that keeps on giving, it’s like a game of pass-the-parcel with a fascinating new layer to unwrap every few minutes. Bravo to every single person, on-stage and off, who contributed to this masterpiece of modern ballet”. – The List
Choreographer Sophie Laplane at Mary, Queen of Scots rehearsals
Two Scottish Ballet dancers have also been recognised for their standout roles. Principal Roseanna Leney is nominated for Outstanding Female Classical Performance for her portrayal of Mary, praised for its emotional depth and commanding stage presence. In the parallel category, First Artist Harvey Littlefield (they/them) has been shortlisted for Outstanding Male Classical Performance for their nuanced and compelling interpretation of Younger Elizabeth.
“Roseanna Leney was immensely watchable as Mary, bringing real complexity and depth to a controversial historical icon.” – A Young(ish) Perspective
“Littlefield’s Elizabeth challenges associations with ballet norms, while paying tribute to many of the art form’s (and theatres) roots. It enriches the narrative’s exploration of power and identity” – Corr Blimey
Roseanna Leney as Mary in Mary, Queen of Scots. Photo by Andy Ross.
Harvey Littlefield as Younger Elizabeth in Mary, Queen of Scots. Photo by Andy Ross
These nominations place the production among the most celebrated works of the qualifying year, with Scottish Ballet—alongside several major UK companies—featured prominently in the Critics’ Circle’s selections. See the full list of nominations here.
The winners will be announced on 15 June 2026 at The Coronet Theatre in London, where the dance community will gather to celebrate excellence across the art form. Warm congratulations to Sophie Laplane, Roseanna Leney and Harvey Littlefield on this remarkable achievement, and best of luck to all the nominees.
Mary, Queen of Scots will tour to the US this May/June, giving audiences across the pond the chance to experience the production live:
- Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Supported by the Spoleto Festival Orchestra 28 – 30 May 2026
- David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, New York Supported by the New York City Ballet Orchestra 4 – 7 June 2026
Starstruck Shines on Stage
Starstruck Shines on Stage
Celebrating Homegrown Talent
Celebrating Homegrown Talent
