Diana's 'Hidden' Ballet Dream Revealed in Letter

A recently surfaced letter penned by Lady Diana Spencer at age 17 offers a poignant glimpse into her youthful aspirations. Dated February 1, 1979, the letter revealed Diana's desire to pursue a career as a professional ballet dancer. She expressed her commitment to finding a place to dance, hoping to achieve success in the field. This ambition predated her well-known relationship with Prince Charles.

The letter also served as a thank-you note to family friend Mildred Lacy. Diana wrote on behalf of her father, John Spencer, 8th Earl Spencer, who was recovering from a stroke. She conveyed her father's gratitude for the well wishes during his lengthy recovery period and mentioned her brother Charles attending boarding school.

Diana's lifelong passion for ballet began in childhood, with early lessons and a school competition win in 1976. However, her 5'10" stature was considered too tall for classical ballet companies at the time. A subsequent leg injury further dashed her professional dancing dreams.

This significant personal document is now up for auction at Chiswick Auctions, with an expected sale price of 4,000 pounds (approximately $5,409). It provides a rare insight into the princess's unfulfilled artistic ambitions before her life took a royal turn.