Ed Watson: A Different Dance

By the time of his retirement in 2020 Ed Watson had become the longest-serving Principal dancer at London’s Royal Ballet. But he is also widely known as an artistic collaborator, fashion icon, and muse. Each illustrated chapter of this gorgeous volume focuses on a distinct aspect of Watson’s career. Leading art critic Sarah Crompton discusses his trajectory from young student to impresario. Wayne McGregor reflects on their long and fruitful collaboration. Longtime friend Charlotte MacMillan engages in a lively conversation with Watson, while Gareth Pugh writes about the dancer as a muse. Dozens of images by leading photographers―such as Rick Guest, Nick Knight, Anthony Crickmay and Kosmas Pavlos―depict Watson throughout his career, in rehearsal, on fashion shoots, in the dressing room, and in stills from his famed performances. Together these words and images tell the story of a performer of extraordinary versatility, exceptional physicality, and a profound artistic sensibility.

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