We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ken Bannerman, a former Rambert dancer and long-standing supporter of the company.

Ken was part of Rambert during a transformative period in the company’s history, performing with the company from the 1950s into the 1960s. A gifted classical dancer, he was admired for both his artistry and dramatic intelligence, creating memorable performances in works including La Sylphide, Dark Elegies and Don Quixote. His recollections of life at the Mercury Theatre and on tour captured both the challenges and extraordinary spirit of the company during those years.

Alongside his lifelong partner John Webley, who worked as administrator at Rambert for 40 years, Ken remained deeply connected to the company long after his performing career ended. Together, they were devoted supporters and generous patrons of Rambert’s award-winning home on London’s South Bank, officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014. Familiar and much loved figures within the Rambert community, they carried with them an extraordinary living memory of the company’s past, while continuing to champion its future.

In his oral history interview for Rambert Voices, Ken spoke with warmth, humour and honesty about life at Rambert: the intensity of touring, Marie Rambert’s formidable character, and the friendships that sustained the company through decades of change.

Ken will be remembered with great affection, gratitude and admiration by all who knew him.