25 Jun 2026
Cast Change: The Royal Ballet's Giselle (11 July soirée, 2026)
It is with regret that we announce that The Royal Ballet's Principal Natalia Osipova has had to withdraw from the Company's Japan tour in July due to an injury that she has recently sustained and unfortunately will not be sufficiently healed by then for her to perform the title role in Giselle.
For the performance for Saturday 11 July, 18:30 at NHK Hall, she will be replaced by Principal Mayara Magri in the role of Giselle. She made a highly acclaimed debut as Giselle last February with the Company at Covent Garden. Her partner in the role of Albrecht will be Principal Reece Clarke as originally scheduled.
We apologise to our valued audiences who have been anticipating the appearance of Natalia Osipova, but appreciate everyone's kind understanding for the unavoidable situation. At the same time, we hope you will enjoy the outstanding performance with Mayara Magri and Reece Clarke.
Statement by Kevin O'Hare, Director of The Royal Ballet
Dear Audience and Friends in Japan,
We are SO looking forward to the return of The Royal Ballet to Tokyo next week.
Unfortunately, Natalia Osipova has sustained an injury and under medical supervision has been strictly advised to rest completely for the coming weeks. Sadly as a result, she will be unable to travel to Japan. I am aware of how eagerly her appearance in Japan was anticipated and I offer my sincere apologies to everyone who was looking forward to seeing her on stage, I know that Natalia is heartbroken to miss performing Giselle in Tokyo.
In her place, Mayara Magri will dance the title role in Giselle. As many of you know, Mayara is a wonderfully dynamic and technically brilliant dancer. Her highly anticipated role debut as Giselle at the Royal Opera House this past February was met with exceptional acclaim from both critics and audience members alike for its artistic sensitivity. While we share your disappointment regarding Natalia, I am confident that you will thoroughly enjoy the beautiful artistry Mayara brings to the role.
Thank you once again for your kind understanding and we look forward to sharing our Royal Ballet performances with you very soon.
Warmest regards,
Kevin O'Hare
Director, The Royal Ballet
Japan Performing Arts Foundation (NBS)
*Casting as of 25 June 2026 is subject to change.
*Changes in the programme or the cast do not entitle holders to return or exchange tickets.
