My Travels with Melissa Hamilton: 'Sunsets in Hawaii were the most incredible thing I've ever witnessed'

Irish Examiner

3 days ago

Melissa Hamilton is one of Ireland's most globally celebrated ballerinas.
A principal with the Royal Ballet in London, she's getting ready to bring a very special show to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre this September.
A dancer who has performed all over the world, she's also co-founded Hamilton Christie Productions alongside her husband, Michael.
From Tokyo to Santorini, the Belfast native and self-confessed 'dreamer' shares the travel moments and memories she'll never forget.
Favourite childhood holiday memory
We usually had one summer holiday a year when we were kids growing up. One of my most poignant memories is from our visit to Orlando, specifically Walt Disney World in Florida. I was an absolute Disney fanatic.
I still love the fantastical and magical essence that Disney brings; that idea of following dreams and dreams being possible.
It's at the core of what Disney is. That was definitely one of my favourite memories as a kid.
Singapore.
Most memorable trip
One of the most memorable, meaningful and big journeys was to Singapore.
It was the first production of Hamilton Christie Productions at the Esplanade Theatre in March 2024.
To travel there with Michael and our company, to present our first show in such an amazing venue, that stands out for so many reasons.
I had visited Singapore once before and really fell in love with the culture and the people.
But this time, with everything it meant and represented for our work, it was something else.
Hawaii.
Most surprising destination
I always say the sunsets in Hawaii were the most incredible and magical things I've ever witnessed.
It was like watching a performance in the sky. The transformation of colour; it was like paintings being created in real time.
I'd never seen anything like it. The sheer beauty of nature can truly surprise and take your breath away.
Favourite city in the world
Hands down, Tokyo. Without question. I love how different it is. I feel like an absolute alien whenever I go to Tokyo, but in a good way.
The food, the culture, the people — the love and respect they have for ballet is incredible. I always have a great time there.
I first visited in 2008 with the Royal Ballet Company and have been lucky to return several times during my career.
There's a big ballet following there. I spent my 30th birthday in Tokyo performing in the World Ballet Festival. That was quite the birthday!
Most memorable food experience
There's a restaurant in London called Hakkasan (above) , which is modern Cantonese. We've had so many special moments marked there.
It's where Michael and I celebrated my promotion to principal with the Royal Ballet Company. We've always been in awe of what they do.
The standard of food is incredibly high and consistent. It's one of those places that just never disappoints. It's become our go-to for any milestone or celebration.
Melissa Hamilton and husband at the Grace in Santorini
Favourite hotel
The Grace Hotel in Santorini. The views over the sea and the caldera, the contrast with the whitewashed walls of the hotel and the island — it was absolutely breath-taking.
It was peaceful, but humbling at the same time. Michael and I just lay there, looking out over the water. From that view, the calmness was unforgettable.
Favourite thing to do while travelling
I always say I love travel because it allows me to recalibrate. It gives me a moment to switch off and reconnect to myself.
I actually get upset now that there's wifi on planes! I used to love being forced to shut down and disconnect from the fast-paced rhythm of my life.
Travel gives me that pause. I also love the energy you get from being somewhere new. It's like a system reset. A reboot. That's what it gives me.
Dubai.
My bucket list trip
I've had opportunities to perform in Dubai before because there's a growing ballet audience in Dubai, but I've not made it yet.
My husband is very passionate about interior design and architecture; he's a co-founder and director of 1.61 London, so his interest in the city's design has definitely piqued my interest in it as well.
And just the sheer scale and level of luxury… I'd love to witness that. It feels like it would be a completely different experience from anywhere else.
Melissa Hamilton will bring her spectacular show, Melissa Hamilton's Ballet Stars Gala, to Dublin in 2025. This star-studded ballet show, created exclusively for Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, will run from September 17-18. Tickets from €36.50 are on sale now through Ticketmaster.