Our Patron, Wendy Toye, CBE, HonDLit, has had a career in the theatre that covers three quarters of the twentieth century, of which fifty of those years she has been a driving force. As a tiny child, Wendy danced for Pavlova such was her talent; and under the brilliant guidance of her mother, her talents were developed in all the performing arts by the best available teachers and artists of the time.

She was a full professional as a young teenager and became a member of the original Vic Wells Ballet Company (eventually to become the Sadlers’ Wells, then the Royal Ballet).

Her theatrical talents did not just stop as a dancer. She is a renowned choreographer in all spheres of dance. Her talents were recognised at a very early age by Dame Ninette De Valois whose belief in the young Wendy was such that, under her auspices, Wendy was invited to choreograph (aged fourteen!) for the ‘Camargo Society’ Ballet Company; a rare and singular honour.

Her opera 'Orpheus In The Underworld' was so successful that it remained in the repertory of the English National Opera Company for twenty-one years! She also created numerous works for the commercial theatre encompassing films and television.

Her directorial credits have ranged from musicals, straight plays through opera to television. Wendy Toye is also a Producer. Many of these extraordinary accomplishments were run simultaneously with her successful career as a performer.

Quite simply, Wendy Toye, CBE, HonDLit, is a legend. A doyenne of British twentieth century theatre. It must be stressed that her involvement with Millennium Performing Arts is not simply titular. She remains in keen and constant contact with the school and her advice and guidance is deemed invaluable.