In 1989, Tim Burton's Batman changed the superhero genre forever. But behind the iconic look and brooding presence was an unexpected influence - a classically trained dancer.

Carl Newman was brought in to add grace, athleticism and precision to the Dark Knight's movements. Nearly four decades on, he tells The Know about the call that changed his life, working with Tim Burton, Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson, and becoming the man affectionately known as the Ballet Bat.

Take us back to 1988. How does a professionally trained dancer suddenly find himself at Pinewood Studios wearing the Batsuit?

I'd already completed several years of training in dance, drama and singing and was working regularly across the media. Then I got that call - the one you always dream of.

Michael Keaton had been cast as Batman and they needed a classically trained dancer to inject more finesse, elegance and athleticism into the character. I was high on the list because of my skillset, height and build. I matched Michael in height but had a more athletic build.

I first met First Assistant Director Derek Cracknell, then I was called back to meet the wardrobe team and try on the suit. After that, Tim Burton auditioned me on the Gotham City backlot.

Tim hired me on the spot.

Do you remember the first time you put the complete Batsuit and cape on?

It was like an out-of-body experience because it was a suit like no other. Revolutionary, iconic, legendary - the first of its kind.

I felt immensely powerful and like I could achieve absolutely anything. I had this incredible confidence because I knew it fitted me like a glove. I was continually praised for how I looked and projected myself in the suit.

There was no denying it. I really was BATMAN!

Your job was to bring grace and movement to Batman. How much freedom did Tim Burton give you?

Tim knew how he wanted Batman to move, but trusted me to bring my own natural, fluid movement to it. He later told me personally how much I'd contributed and the impact it had made.

The Batsuit was notoriously restrictive. What was it like to move in?

It was heavy, hot and cumbersome, but I used my strength and training to make the suit work for me. There wasn't anything I couldn't do - I wanted it to look effortless and the cape to look as though it was made of silk.

Of all the scenes you're in, which makes you proudest?

The run and cape swish on the rooftop of Axis Chemicals. There were no safety measures, it was windy, wet and very high - and I had to run right to the edge of the building.

What do you remember about the bell-tower finale?

It was my busiest section of the film. I emerged from the Batwing wreckage, pursued the Joker through the bell tower and performed the iconic cape turn as the Boombox Goon crashes through the floorboards.

I also remember taking drinks breaks and chatting with Tim and Jack Nicholson. Jack was so kind and complimentary - an absolute joy to work with.

Jack famously gave you the “Ballet Bat” nickname. What was he like?

I couldn't have asked for a better nickname from someone I'd admired for years. Jack was just so cool, with a cheeky, dry sense of humour.

He was incredibly generous too - he bought the cast and crew black leather jackets based on those worn by the Joker's goons. My abiding memory is the camaraderie we had filming in the bell tower.

Michael Keaton's casting was hugely controversial. What was he like to work with?

Michael was taking a huge risk and the pressure was on. We had a lot of respect for one another and he recognised what I was contributing to the physical side of the character.

He gave a fantastic cerebral performance and made great use of his eyes. None of us knew how enormous the film would become, but we had a strong feeling we were onto a winner.

Nearly four decades later, fans are still recreating your poses. What's that like?

It literally blows my mind. My poses have been recreated by artists, cosplayers and fans all over the world - one artist alone has created around 40 artworks.

I've received countless pieces inspired by my work, many of which now adorn my walls. It transcends all ages - and that's incredible to see.

Follow the Ballet Bat for more

Discover more photographs, stories and memories from Carl's time on Batman at balletbat1989.com.

You can also find Carl across social media at @Balletbat1989.