Royal Winnipeg Ballet Class Action

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This class action lawsuit, brought forward by Waddell Phillips PC, was brought on behalf of all persons who attended the Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) School from 1984 to 2015 who were photographed by Bruce Monk in a private setting, and the dependents of those students.

  • The AFA is sharing information about this lawsuit in the case that the resolution of this suit affects any members of Alberta's dance community.
  • All information contained within this news post was accurate as of January 5, 2022. Please find the most recent details about this suit on Waddell Phillips PC website (click on the 'updates' tab).

Content warning: sexual exploitation and non-consensual photo sharing

This class action alleges that Bruce Monk, while a teacher and photographer at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, took naked, semi-naked, and sexualized photographs of Royal Winnipeg Ballet students, some of which he published, sold, and disseminated on-line. It is alleged that Monk did this without the consent of the class members.

The parties have reached a settlement of this action, subject to the approval of the court. 

The settlement approval hearing will be taking place on February 11, 2022. Those who would like to watch the proceedings online, please contact Waddell Phillips PC directly. 

Sexual assault support services

Non-consensual photo sharing is not ok. For specific online information and support around non-consensual photo sharing, please visit needhelpnow.ca

Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence can provide assistance in finding sexual assault support services (9 am to 9 pm daily):

Find more family and social supports on Alberta.ca.

Find lawsuit details