From Stage to Screen and Back Again: Constance Devernay-Laurence on returning to Theatre Royal
- Olivia Godwin
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
A look at Constance Devernay-Laurence, former Principal of Scottish Ballet, returning to the Glaswegian Stage performing 'I Married Myself', the finale solo from Prime Video's Étoile, choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon, as danced on the screen by Constance.
Having stepped back from Scottish Ballet, where she was Principal since 2016, Constance Devernay-Laurence joined the filming of Étoile, starring as the dancing double for the lead character Lou De Laâge, as well as acting the part of one of the Paris dancers, Mélanie.
Set in New York City and Paris, the eight-episode series Étoile follows the dancers and artistic staff of two world-renowned ballet companies, as they embark on an ambitious gambit to save their storied institutions by swapping their most talented stars.
‘I Married Myself’, choreographed for the show by Christopher Wheeldon, is the climactic finale solo of Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino latest series, performed by Constance, and first adapted for stage for Ballet Nights 008: Spring into Summer on the 5th June at Cadogan Hall.
When did you last perform in Glasgow and what excites you about performing at Ballet Nights Glasgow?
The last time I performed in Glasgow was in spring 2023, in A Streetcar Named Desire with Scottish
Ballet. I didn’t know then that those would be my final performances in Glasgow with the company, so it’s especially meaningful to return. I’ve missed the Scottish audience and the place that was my home for 15 years.
What are you performing at BALLET NIGHTS GLASGOW?
Jamiel asked me to perform a solo for the programme, and having just filmed this piece for Étoile, it felt like the perfect choice. Leaving Scotland to take on the role of actor/dancer and dance double in Étoile was a major turning point, so bringing this solo to the stage feels very special. Working with Christopher Wheeldon was an incredible experience, and I am happy to be able to show his work. He
created this solo for episode 8 of Étoile, the climax of the series. The choreography is exquisite; it demands classical technique and precision and freedom of movement at the same time. Plus, it’s set to music by Sparks, who coincidentally have an upcoming concert in Glasgow!
I’ll also be performing excerpts from Elite Syncopations (Stoptime, and Bethena Waltz). Elite Syncopations holds a special place in my heart; it’s one of my favourite works I’ve performed in Glasgow. The audience always responds so warmly to it because it’s fun, colourful, and cheeky. I’ll be dancing it with Tyrone Singleton, whom I met on the set of Étoile. He’s performed the piece many times before with Birmingham Royal Ballet, though we’ve never danced it together, so we’re carving out time to rehearse it now.
What was it like being part of the cast and filming Étoile?
Being part of Étoile was a rewarding experience that allowed me to grow as an artist. Dancing for the camera was both challenging and inspiring. I’ve always believed ballet should be seen on the big
screen, and I’m thrilled it can now reach such a wide audience through a platform like Prime Video. The experience has sparked a real desire in me to explore more acting in the future.
And what was it like working with Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, choreographer Marguerite Derricks, and the rest of the Étoile cast?
It was a wonderful experience. Amy and Dan are creative forces, so witty and deeply committed to their vision. Their attention to detail is remarkable. Their scripts are like choreography in themselves: rhythmically precise, emotionally layered, and full of unexpected turns. Working with them is like stepping into a world where every detail matters, and yet you’re given the freedom to bring your own truth to the role and as a dancer, I loved that!
Working with Marguerite Derricks was a masterclass in precision, musicality and storytelling through movement. She requires speed, versatility and a maturity of movement and is able to make ballet feel bold, sexy, and completely alive. She blends strength and sensuality without losing the integrity of the art form, it’s really fun to dance.
The entire cast of dancers was incredible. It was such a joy to meet so many talented artists, share our passion and stories, and grow together through this experience.
Tell us three things you miss about living in Glasgow and three locations you would visit in Glasgow if you had the time or if you were a tourist.
Coming back to perform at Theatre Royal will be quite emotional; I’ve missed the people and the energy of the city. If I had more time, I’d take a stroll through the West End and the Botanic Gardens, and have dinner at number 16 on Byres Road.
With tickets selling fast, secure your seat at Ballet Nights Glasgow today on the 4th July at Theatre Royal.
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