Behind the Curtain: Driving Success with Fundamentally Dance

With Ballet Nights 007: Pillars & Pioneers, our second sold-out show at Cadogan Hall this evening, hear from the Chief Operating Officer of Fundamentally Dance, Gavin McCaig.

Photo: Shot by GS

Since joining Fundamentally Dance in January, the past quarter has been a whirlwind — in the best possible way! From the moment I joined, it was clear this company operates differently. The energy is infectious, and the team is driven and adaptable, always ready to take on new challenges. Our upcoming productions, including the sold-out Ballet Nights 007 at Cadogan Hall, really reflects that spirit.

What sets this role apart from my previous experiences is the pace and flexibility. Every show under the Ballet Nights banner is crafted with care, but things move fast — and that requires a different kind of focus behind the scenes. The challenge is keeping that momentum while ensuring everything runs smoothly, so the work on stage always feels polished and effortless.

A big part of that has been building a really solid operational framework. We take a ‘belts and braces’ approach to compliance, planning, and logistics — making sure every detail is covered, from contracts and health and safety to international travel and artist care. The aim is to create a structure that allows creativity to thrive without distraction. When things are running properly behind the scenes, it gives everyone the freedom to focus on what really matters — the art.

One thing I didn’t quite expect was how much problem-solving happens in real time. Whether it’s tight timelines or navigating the logistics of taking our work beyond London — with performances in Glasgow and Romania on the horizon — we’ve had to stay flexible and think on our feet. It’s been a lesson in trusting the team, empowering everyone to take ownership, and knowing that sometimes the best solutions come from embracing a challenge head-on.

What’s really exciting is looking ahead. We’re already exploring possibilities for 2026 and 2027, and we’ve been conducting market research to understand where the appetite for dance lies in today’s world. It’s not just about putting on shows — it’s about finding new audiences, new venues, and new ways to connect people with dance.

Ballet Nights 008, including two iconic Christopher Wheeldon works, plus performances by Steven McRae & Anna-Rose O’Sullivan – Star Principals of The Royal Ballet, is now on sale.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that none of this happens without trust — trust in the vision, trust in the artists, and trust in the team. Fundamentally Dance is all about creating unforgettable experiences, and that takes more than just talent; it takes shared ambition and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.

Stay tuned: there’s so much more to come this year alone.

Ballet Nights 008: Spring into Summer on June 5th in London is on sale now. Book your tickets today.