Paul James Rooney

Who is Paul James Rooney?

Paul James Rooney is an English dancer, choreographer and rehearsal director, who has worked in and with various companies and choreographers around the world, including names such as; Matthew Bourne, Tim Rushton, Michael Flatley, Will Tuckett, Christopher Hampson and Marie Brolin-Tani. Paul James Rooney was also one of the ballet dancers representing the Royal Opera House in the closing ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympics dancing with Leona Lewis and Jimmy Page.

Paul James Rooney was born in Sandhurst, Berkshire and started dancing at the age of 5, joining the Royal Ballet Associate programme and moving on to study at The Royal Ballet School, White Lodge. Paul continued his training at Elmhurst Ballet School, where his versatility was nurtured; studying Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap and Flamenco. He can be seen demonstrating Escuela Bolera excerises on The Bolero School DVD.

Since graduating Paul has danced for many companies, including; New Adventures, English National Ballet, Danish Dance Theatre, Pantomimeteatret and Alvin Ailey Dance Theater in their Copenhagen performance of Memoria. Paul has danced Principal roles in The Royal Opera House's 'Pinocchio', 'Peter and the Wolf' in New York, and in various Bournonville productions at the Pantomimeteatret. Paul James performed in 'Wind in the Willows' at The royal Opera House The Duchess Theatre, in London's West End. He is currently playing the roe of Mr. Mistoffelees in Cats in Denmark.