A Star-Studded Ballet Gala Returns to Old Fort Bay

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Featuring Royal Ballet British Icon Lauren Cuthbertson, Bahamian Icon Courtney Celeste Spears and many more!

Following its breathtaking debut last year, Iconique returns to Old Fort Bay Club in Nassau for two unforgettable nights of world-class ballet, set against the stunning backdrop of the Bahamian coastline. This exclusive gala, taking place on March 7 and 8, will once again bring together some of the most celebrated dancers from the world’s most revered ballet companies.

Courtney Celeste Spears

However, this year, the spotlight shines brightest on The Bahamas’ very own Courtney Celeste Spears. An internationally acclaimed dancer, educator, and entrepreneur, Spears is poised to deliver a historic performance that will resonate deeply with her home audience. A former professional with the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Spears has performed for global audiences—including two U.S. presidents—and has been featured in Vogue, Harper’s BAZAAR, and The New York Times. Now, she brings her unparalleled artistry back to the stage, blending her modern dance expertise with the soulful rhythms of Bahamian jazz.

A Bahamian Story Told Through Dance

This year’s Iconique Gala will feature Spears in an all-new, deeply personal piece set to an original score by Bahamian jazz artist and composer Giveton Gelin. The performance, which

begins as a solo and evolves into a duet, is an artistic celebration of Bahamian culture, brought to life with costumes designed by Bahamian fashion visionary Phylicia Ellis. Joining Spears onstage is another of the nation’s finest talents—Vernal Adderley, a soloist and international dancer whose strength and artistry have made him a standout performer on the global stage.

Vernal Adderley

“This work highlights my love of modern dance infused with jazz music,” Spears shares. “It’s a tribute to the depth and spirit of Bahamian artistry. Working with Vernal has been an absolute gift—his strength, his care, his attentiveness make every moment in the studio feel like magic. I can’t wait to bring this piece to life.”

A Lineup of Global Ballet Stars

While Spears’ performance is set to be a landmark moment for The Bahamas, Iconique remains an extraordinary showcase of international dance excellence. The event will welcome an illustrious lineup of ballet stars, including:

· Fernanda Oliveira, Principal of the English National Ballet

· Kateryna Chebykina, of the Béjart Ballet, formerly with the Mariinsky Ballet

· Ksenia Ovsyanick, Principal of the Staatsballett Berlin

· Lauren Cuthbertson, Principal of The Royal Ballet

· Myriam Ould-Braham, Étoile of the Paris Opera Ballet

· Alejandro Virelles, Principal Guest Dancer of the Staatsballett

· Dinu Tamazlacaru, Principal of the Staatsballett Berlin

· Mickaël Lafon, Soloist of the Paris Opera Ballet

· Robbie Fairchild, Tony-nominated International Guest Principal/Previous Principal with New York City ballet

Curated and presented by Covent Garden Dance, this year’s gala promises a breathtaking mix of classical, neoclassical, and contemporary works, hoping to creating yet another unique performance that is both intimate and awe-inspiring. Once again, both the First Lady of The Bahamas, Mrs. Davis and the British High Commission serve as patrons for the event.

Mickaël Lafon

An Unparalleled Evening of Elegance

Held within a beautifully designed dinner-theatre setting, Iconique is more than a performance—it is an immersive experience. Guests will dine under the stars in a 360-seat open-air venue, enjoying gourmet cuisine between exhilarating dance segments. With each performance set against the elegant, tropical surroundings of Old Fort Bay, the evening is sure to be as visually stunning as it is artistically moving.

Xander Mac – Swann 2

“The Bahamas is without doubt the quintessential dream location for Iconique,” said Covent Garden Dance Director Matt Brady and organizer of the event. “It provides not only the most sensational backdrop for our theatre and performances but also one of the warmest and most genuine audiences we have had the honour to perform for. We are so excited to be back here in a country that consistently provides daily ‘pinch me’ moments.”

“This year our chests swell with pride in being able to bring the gloriously talented Courtney Celeste Spears to the stage here in her home town with the super star jazz musician Giveton Gelin. What a moment Friday the 7th of March will be, when their new work will become a World Premiere at Theatre Iconique at The Old Fort Bay Club.”

Tickets for this exclusive event are selling quickly. To secure your place at Iconique and witness history in the making, visit www.conventgardendance.com for more information and bookings.