The final curtain for star of Northern Ballet

But after 14 years with Leeds-based Northern Ballet, its premier male dancer has decided to bow out to allow his creative juices to flow.

Mr Tindall’s departure signals the end of a professional partnership with his wife Hannah Bateman, the company’s leading soloist, who he has danced alongside in several productions.

Before he embarks on a new path as a freelance choreographer, the star will reprise his role as Heathcliff in Claude-Michel Schönberg and David Nixon OBE’s acclaimed adaptation of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights at the Milton Keynes Theatre in May. Performing opposite as Heathcliff’s love interest, Cathy, will be former colleague Julie Charlet, who left Northern Ballet in 2013.

“This decision has been a really difficult one but I’ve been blessed to have achieved everything that I wanted to as a dancer and now I am excited to move on to the next phase of my career,” said Mr Tindall.

Since taking part in Northern Ballet’s choreographic workshop, Mr Tindall has created three works including acclaimed The Architect which premièred in Leeds last year and will see its London première in May.

Mr Nixon, Northern Ballet’s artistic director, said: “I’m pleased the creative environment has been the catalyst for his promising career as a choreographer. We thank Kenneth and wish him well with his future journey.”