Founded in 1979 as the Spanish National Classical Ballet, it has achieved outstanding international prestige under the directors of the stature of Víctor Ullate, María de Ávila, Maya Plisetskaya and Nacho Duato.
The National Dance Company, which tours Europe, has evolved towards a more contemporary style, although without sidelining its classical principles. It maintains its own distinctive identify, which is based on Spanish cultural and folkloric roots.
Throughout its history it has staged new choreographies by George Balanchine, Anthony Tudor and Ray Barra. It currently also has a choreography workshop and the National Dance Company 2, whose purpose is to prepare dancers for their life as professionals.