San Francisco Ballet principal Nicolas Blanc asked to be released from his contract for the 2010 season. In a statement issued by SFB, Blanc stated, “It’s time for me to move to a new chapter in my life and to pass on what I’ve learned and experienced in my career as an artist. My six years with SF Ballet have been instrumental in my growth, not only as a dancer, but as a person; I’ve learned so much and am very grateful for this time with the company and to the loyal audience that has followed me in San Francisco."

...[I]magine my surprise when I came across a familiar face while touring the [Scottish Ballet] facility: Nicolas Blanc, former principal dancer with SF Ballet, who has just retired from dancing! Just two weeks ago or so, he was named ballet master for Scottish Ballet, and he now resides in Glasgow.