The Royal Winnipeg Ballet sprang to life in 1939 with founders Gweneth Lloyd O.C. and Betty Farrally O.C. From modest beginnings, the RWB has reached many significant milestones, including a Royal charter from Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and has contributed significantly to the global ballet scene.

The RWB has performed in 44 countries and 595 cities around the world and is the longest continuously operated ballet company in North America.