Memorial for Órla Ruth Baxendale

Órla was a beautiful, vibrant, kind soul who always believed she would achieve her greatest and wildest dreams. And that is exactly what she did.

After graduating from Elmhurst in 2018, Órla won a prestigious scholarship to complete her training at Alvin Ailey in New York. A gifted ballet, contemporary and Irish step dancer, Órla’s versatility was her superpower. From performing in Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet, to gracing the stages of New York with Alvin Ailey, English With An Accent, The Carnival NYC and Momix, it was Órla’s dedication and talent that allowed her to achieve so much in such a short time.

But Órla was not just a rare and beautiful dancer; she was also a rare and beautiful person. She lit up every room she entered, bringing laughter, fun, wit and warmth to all those who had the immense joy of crossing her path. She was wonderfully silly, unafraid of being authentically herself and truly unphased by others’ judgement. She was fiercely loyal to those she loved, and unwaveringly resilient in the face of adversity. There was enough love in Órla’s heart for everyone, and she would cast her sparkling light on all those around her, even on the toughest of days.

Órla’s family and friends wish for nothing more than to feel that precious light in our lives again now. It is so hard to comprehend that the very person who effortlessly injected joy into our days and always knew how to lift our spirits is the very person we are without. The void she has left in our lives is truly incomprehensible. And yet, we know without a doubt that Órla would not want us to mourn. She would tell us to come together and celebrate the 25 incredible years she spent making her mark on the world. She would encourage us to raise a glass to her success and find comfort in sharing stories about her. She would remind us to live life to the fullest, spreading love, generosity, kindness and fun.

And so, we ask you to please join us for an evening dedicated to remembering Órla. A special performance for a very special person. Many of those who loved her most, and have gone on to forge their own careers in top companies across the globe, will be returning to perform in her honour. This show will be a tribute to her life, her legacy and, above all else, the everlasting impression she left on the many lives she touched.

All proceeds from the event will go to Anaphylaxis UK, of which Órla was a lifelong member. After receiving Órla's allergy diagnosis, Anaphylaxis UK provided advice and training to both her family and school. This fundraiser is our way of saying thank you for the important work they do on behalf of allergy sufferers everywhere.

Doors will open to guests at 1.30pm for a 2pm start. Please allow enough time to arrive and be seated.

Memorial at 2pm - 3.30pm

Refreshments in the foyer 3.30pm - 5pm

We kindly ask that each ticket is secured with a £5 minimum ticket donation, with proceeds going to Anaplyaxis UK- https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/about-us/

Please note that donation tickets may only be secured individually. Further transactions will be needed to book multiple tickets.

Parking: Parking on-site is limited. There is further parking available at The MAC, a short walk away from Elmhurst.

Those travelling by public transport, we are a short drive or bus ride away from Birmingham New Street station. Bus routes 61 and 63 drop off directly by Elmhurst on Bristol Road.

For guests requiring accessible seating and/or disabled parking, please book your seats using Eventbrite, then email your requirements to [email protected]

Host or Publisher Elmhurst Ballet School