My story
About Tierney
From the moment I stepped into a dance studio at the age of two, I fell in love with movement, music, and the magic of performing. Ballet became my language — one of discipline, creativity, and self-expression.
At eight, I joined The Royal Ballet Junior Associates, and though I faced rejection from White Lodge three times, I refused to give up on my dream. My journey took me to Elmhurst Ballet School for three years, followed by two years of local training — years that taught me resilience and the power of believing in yourself when the odds are stacked against you.
That persistence paid off when I earned a coveted place at The Royal Ballet Upper School. While training there, I was awarded the bronze medal at the Genée International Ballet Competition and developed a deep understanding of refinement, self-correction, and growth through consistency.
In 2012, I joined The Royal Ballet Company, where I was honoured to be one of very few dancers promoted twice in a single year. Over the next decade, I performed in some of the world’s most iconic productions — The Nutcracker, Giselle, Swan Lake — and danced roles such as the
Myrtha, Queen of Hearts, Lilac Fairy, Carmen, and the Principal Girl in Rubies. I also had the privilege of creating roles for world-renowned choreographers including
Wayne McGregor and Christopher Wheeldon, experiences that shaped both my artistry and character.
During my time with the company, I toured internationally to some of the world’s most renowned stages — including Tokyo, New York, Brisbane, and Monte Carlo — bringing these productions to audiences across the globe.
After ten extraordinary years on stage, an injury led me to retire — but my passion for ballet never faded. I retrained as a Nutritional Therapist, determined to combine my knowledge of performance, wellness, and the human body to help others thrive.
Today, I dedicate my career to empowering the next generation of dancers — from aspiring professionals to adults rediscovering their love for movement. I’ve coached students of all ages through 1:1 training, international workshops, and summer intensives, always with the goal of nurturing both technical excellence and confidence.
I’m also proud to be the Head Coach of the Claudia Dean World Associate Program in the Cotswolds, where I guide young dancers to develop artistry, strength, and self-belief.
Outside the studio, I’m a mother of two beautiful children — a role that’s deepened my understanding of balance, resilience, and the importance of self-connection.
Through Studio by Tierney, my mission is to share the beauty, discipline, and joy of ballet in a way that’s accessible, inspiring, and empowering — helping every dancer, at every stage, become the very best version of themselves.
“My story isn’t just about dance — it’s about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to keep evolving.”
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