James McDonell was born in East Melbourne, Australia, where he began his dance education. He studied at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS), specializing in Theater and Visual Arts. In 2022, James graduated with a focus on classical dance from the esteemed Australian Ballet School.
During his training, James collaborated with the Australian Ballet on several projects and participated in their nationwide tours. Notably, from July to October 2022, he performed in John Cranko’s Romeo and Juliet. This experience allowed him to develop his artistry and stage presence in a professional setting.
In 2023, James was selected for the prestigious Jette Parker Young Artist program at the Queensland Ballet. As part of this year-long initiative, he performed alongside the company’s principal artists and worked with renowned guest performers from around the world, further refining his technique and versatility.
In the 2024/2025 season, James joined the NDM Ballet as a corps de ballet member with soloist obligation.
Cast - Season:
| THE CUNNING LITTLE VIXEN | Old Butterfly |
| CARMEN | Zvíře |
| COPPÉLIA | |
| PEER GYNT | TROLL KING CORPS DE BALLET |
| SWAN LAKE | Rothbart Alter ego Siegrieda |
| THE CUNNING LITTLE VIXEN | Old Butterfly |
| THE NUTCRACKER – A CHRISTMAS CAROL | Valčík Gardisté Duchové Harlekýni Řezník Indický tanec |
