Read this with interest. Always wondered the same thing, and to me, sometimes the Royal Ballet make some decisions that I simply cannot work out. I happen to know that they always look for 180 degrees turnout and rotation in the hip, from a young age. I agree about the physique developments too; At the start off the audition when they look at each individual candidate from different angles, I assume this is when they check this.
In terms of height, when I have been at my auditions so far (Elmhurst, Royal and English National), I have been one of the shortest there. I don't think I am small, or tall, but mostly in the middle. I'm around 5 foot 3 inches. I always feel exceptionally small at auditions, and rather well-built in terms of muscle, which I certainly am not! My legs are no where near as strong as they should be, yet, in comparison to other girls legs, mine seem like a sprinter's legs! For tall dancers, I would advise ENB, as their dancers seem very tall, stick thin, and with legs that never seem to end.
Anyone ever felt like this?
