How I witnessed a focused young girl grow into the woman who personified the Royal Ballet.
William Trevitt and Darcey Bussell in Kiss at Sadler's Wells. Photograph: Tristram Kenton
Darcey was the new girl in our class when she joined the Royal Ballet School aged 13. It turns out she found it quite difficult to adjust to this new environment, but I was rather interested in the differences between her and the other girls - those very things that made her feel like she didn't belong.
In many ways she resisted the urge to change in order to be accepted; I believe this resistance has remained with her throughout her career, and has probably given her the strength to retire at the height of her powers.
We worked together as students, particularly on new choreography, and danced together in our graduation performance. Once in the Royal Ballet, our paths crossed frequently.
In rehearsal her inability to keep her ideas to herself meant she regularly contributed positively. She never wanted to do what was expected of her; instead she does just what she feels is right for her at the time, following an instinct that has probably been with her since she was little.
It is quite amazing to think that the girl that felt like she didn't belong has grown up to personify the Royal Ballet.
George Piper Dances: Ballet for the People is at the Royal Festival Hall July 14th and 15th