Ed Watson: Dancing on the Edge

This visually stunning homage to the most distinctive male dancer of his generation combines photography and personal essays to explore every facet of Ed Watson’s achievements both on stage and off.

Ed Watson, Principal Dancer with The Royal Ballet for over 20 years is a unique talent; a widely celebrated collaborator in dance, photography and fashion. 

Each illustrated essay 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 principal dancer and coach with The Royal Ballet. Wayne McGregor reflects on their long and fruitful collaboration. Longtime friend Charlotte MacMillan engages in a lively conversation with the man himself, while Gareth Pugh muses on the concept of duende.

Dozens of images by leading photographers—including Rick Guest, Nick Knight, Anthony Crickmay, Kosmas Pavlos, Nadav Kander, Paul Smith, Laurence Ellis, Teddy Iborra Wicksteed, Liz Seagrove, Paul Grover, and Johan Persson—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.

Sarah Crompton is Arts Editor in Chief for the Daily Telegraph, London, a theater critic for Whatsonstage, and a journalist and broadcaster on all things cultural for publications including The Guardian, The Sunday Times (London) and Vogue.