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Members
ROYAL ACADEMY OF
Focus on
DANCE
New Zealand • Issue 1 • 2018
• Exciting Developments
• Discovering Repertoire
• Project B – Boys Dance
CONTENTS
Focus on Members | Issue 1 2018 There are many exciting developments in the
Royal Academy of Dance world at present,
Postal Address: including the new Discovering Repertoire
Royal Academy of Dance syllabus which is now available to be taught and
PO Box 11718 Manners Street examined; the Project B initiative inspiring boys of
Wellington 6142 all ages to dance; the Silver Swans programme
Physical Address: which will be available in NZ later in the year;
Level 11, 49 Boulcott Street and many wonderful events being planned
Wellington 6011 for the RAD’s centenary year – 2020. My best
tel: 04 382 8924 wishes to Bronwyn Williams as she takes over as
email: info@rad.org.nz National Director NZ for this vibrant and positive
organisation, the RAD.
web addresses: Janet Taylor
www.rad.org.nz
www.rad.org.uk
www.radenterprises.co.uk
www.radeducation.org.uk Contents
www.stepintodance.org
www.facebook.com/RoyalAcademyofDance 03 I News & Events
www.twitter.com/RADheadquarters
12 I Regional Focus
Editor: Janet Taylor
Design: LCdesignz 25 I Other Dance News
Printer: Thames Publications Ltd
28 I UK News
Front Cover: Mexican bandits in Fiona Haines Dance
Academy's end-of-the-year show Around the World.
34 I Membership
Photo: Amber Griffin Photography
35 I Examinations – Information
ROYAL ACADEMY OF DANCE, RAD PRE-PRIMARY IN
DANCE and RAD PRIMARY IN DANCE are registered 36 I Examinations – Dates
trademarks® of the Royal Academy of Dance in NZ, the EU
and other countries. RAD and SILVER SWANS are registered
trademarks® of the Royal Academy of Dance in the EU and
37 I Examinations – Fees
other countries. RAD INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION, RAD
INTERMEDIATE, RAD ADVANCED FOUNDATION, RAD 38 I CPD
ADVANCED 1, RAD ADVANCED 2, RAD CLASS AWARD, RAD
SOLO PERFORMANCE AWARD, DANCE TO YOUR OWN
TUNE,CBTS and KARSAVINA SYLLABUS are 39 I Regional Contacts
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The use or misuse of the trademarks or any other content of
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2
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NEWS & EVENTS
Introducing Bronwyn Williams – National Director NZ
Kia ora koutou,
My love of dance stems from when I was four years old and I started ballet lessons
at Dorothy Daniels Academy of dance in Cuba St, Wellington. Looking back, I realise
how fortunate I was to have some of the best dance teachers in New Zealand at that
time: Dorothy Daniels, Valerie Bailey, Anne Rowse and Joy Lowe – to mention a few.
I flourished and showed some promise as a dancer and for the next thirteen years,
becoming a ballerina was all I ever thought about!
Although life and reality eventually took over, I have certainly never stopped dancing. Moving to the UK
after finishing my BA at Victoria University, I had many marvelous opportunities to pursue my love of
dance – these included: working in a small touring theatre company as a dancer/actor; contemporary
dance classes at The Place and the Laban Centre in London; completing an MA in Theatre Arts at
Leeds University; lecturing in lighting and costume design for dance at Roehampton College of Further
Education; setting up my own youth dance group in London; becoming Community Dance Worker for
the South London Borough of Lambeth; organising major dance events and festivals; and establishing a
programme of performing arts activities in a Brixton based youth club.
After returning home to New Zealand in 1999, having lived in the UK for 20 years, I took up partner
dancing - rock and roll and Ceroc in the main – and today I am a member of Crows Feet Collective, a
performing contemporary based dance company of ‘older’ women.
For me, dance, and in fact the performing arts in general, has come to mean so much more than
just something to enjoy. It is also an important mechanism for discovering creativity and expressing
individuality. It is a way in which people of all ages can express their emotions and passions, learn
and grow, escape, find their identity or meaning to life. So it was a natural link for me to transition from
working in the arts to working in social services on returning to New Zealand. Initially, I worked with the
New Zealand Council of Victim Support Groups – first as the Wellington Group Manager and then as
the National Training and Quality Assurance Manager and finally as the National Operations Manager.
More recently, I was General Manager for Enliven Community Support with Presbyterian Support Central
for three years and prior to that, Regional Manager for Richmond New Zealand (now known as Emerge
Aotearoa), a national provider of mental health and disability services.
These organisations have given me extensive experience in organisational transformation, government
contract management, developing new services, managing risk and large budgets and working with
wonderful people. Above all, I have had the privilege of providing services to a wide range of communities
within New Zealand – sometimes at a very vulnerable time of their lives – from victims of crime and
trauma, to people with disabilities and/or experiencing mental distress and addiction issues; from the
young to the elderly. In all my roles, I have taken pride in supporting the team to be the best they can be in
providing services that are of the highest quality and responsive to the needs of the client group.
I am looking forward immensely to taking up the role of National Director of the RAD in New Zealand. This
role combines my love of dance with my experience in organisational operations and strategic positioning.
I look forward to meeting with you as members of the RAD and hearing how the organisation can best 3
serve its members and promote the love of dance throughout New Zealand.
Nga mihi
Bronwyn Williams
NEWS & EVENTS
Farewell to Janet Taylor and Welcome to Bronwyn Williams
The ‘Farewell and Welcome’ tour in late February was a very special
time for me. Thank you to everyone who came to one of the four
farewell events, and to those who have sent such lovely messages. I
have been blown away by your generosity and kind words.
It has been such a pleasure to have had the opportunity to be the RAD’s
National Director NZ for the past 14½ years, and to have had contact
with so many wonderful people – teachers, pianists, examiners, area
organisers and colleagues – who are so passionate and caring in their
chosen careers. A special thankyou to Luke Rittner, who has been a fantastic, supportive boss half a
world away. I really appreciate his coming on this trip and updating us all about current RAD projects.
I enjoyed spending time with the incoming National Director, Bronwyn Williams, who I know will do a
great job in leading the NZ branch of the RAD into the future. All the best, Bronwyn.
I am overwhelmed and feel immensely honoured to be awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Academy of
Dance. Quite unbelievable, but such a thrill, and a result of the wonderful support given by NZ’s RAD
family. A very special thank you to Nina Sowerbutts. Without her support, expertise and friendship
over the years, the smooth running of the office would not have been possible.
With love and appreciation
Janet
National Directors Bronwyn Williams (from 2018); Janet
Taylor (2003 to 2018); Shirley Baker (1973 to 2003)
Auckland – 21 February
Back: Joanna Zhao, Lea
Sandford, Philippa Campbell, Jill
Arkley, Faye Stamp, Luke Rittner,
Carole Speirs, Carl Myers,
Gayle Prescott, Valerie Lissette,
Delphine Burkett, Chrissy
Cameron, Tonia Robertson,
4 Heather Palmer, Melinda Palmer
Front: Amanda Cowie, Deborah
Morrison, Saori Ishimaru, Janet
Taylor, Christine Snowball,
Bronwyn Williams
NEWS & EVENTS
Tauranga – 22 February
Back: Andrea Zwezerynen, Ron Leach, Jenny Atkins
Middle: Bronwyn Williams, Angela Guernier, Janet
Taylor, Pat Littler, Shireen Breebaart
Front: Luke Rittner, Anne Samson, Annette Leach,
Gillian Moore
Wellington – 23 February
Sue Nicholls, Ruth Wall,
Bronwyn Williams, Lynne
Harrison, Anne Rowse
Sue Tuck
was farewelled
after 20 years
as Wellington
Area Organiser
Christchurch – 24 February
Back: Wayne Twohill, Michaela
Laird, Avril Levings, Frances
Scott, Melanie Wheeler, Joy
Pearson, Luke Rittner, Janet
Taylor, Sharon Howells, Hayley
Watts, Maureen Coulter, 5
Azariah Heswall, Nicky Falloon
Front: Emma Body, Bronwyn
Williams, Philippa Pidgeon,
Angie Longman
NEWS & EVENTS
Farewell to Sue Tuck – Wellington/Nelson-Marlborough Area Organiser
Area Organisers are the backbone of our Royal Academy of Dance operation in New Zealand. The
office staff relies very heavily on them to keep in touch with the local teachers, and to ensure the
smooth running of examinations and courses. Sue Tuck was appointed Wellington Area Organiser
in 1996, taking over from Barbara Winchester. She has done a fantastic job for which we are very
grateful. Thanks, Sue.
In deciding to hang up the pointe shoes, it has given me time to reflect on 20 years of
activities with the RAD. Initially contact with teachers was always on the phone which
really helped to get to know them all, compared to today where emails are the norm,
especially for me as I’ve covered a number of areas. I will miss keeping in touch but
am sure receiving Focus on Members will keep me tuned in. In the early years we
also hand wrote all the names on the report forms.
My role has been a little bit different from other Area Organisers because, apart from the exam
entries to prepare for the office, I have also had (which I affectionately refer to as the “fiddly bits”)
overseen Solo Seal each year and Scholarship on alternate years where it has been a privilege to
see the fledgling careers budding in some of our most well-known NZ dancers, Abigail Boyle being
one of these. Memorable also have been the highly popular and successful International Summer
Schools as well as the 2012 Genée Competition.
I cannot speak highly enough of the Examiners and Guest tutors I’ve met over the years for their
professionalism and unfailing cheerfulness. Last but by no means least our Admin team in the
office. Shirley Baker to begin with and then Janet Taylor. These ladies have been amazing. I also
acknowledge the amazing skills of Nina Sowerbutts in her ability to arrange Grade tours which is like
putting a jigsaw together. More recently Fiona Arbuckle has worked alongside them in the office and
is now the Area Organiser.
With love and gratitude, Sue
Tribute from Deirdre Tarrant: Twenty years is
a long time and for all of us in Wellington Sue
has been the go-to guru at exam entry and exam
session times. Always helpful and totally prepared
to go the extra mile she has made Wellington a
welcoming city for many international examiners,
for our own examiners, for Summer Schools and
courses, for teachers, students and parents alike.
Sue Tuck and Nina Sowerbutts at the 2012 A smile, coffee, lunches, lifts – all those things that
International Summer School – including make the real world of the RAD for those of us at
fundraising for the Genée
the Studio-face of ballet teaching.
Personally Sue has been a longstanding friend and my memories go even further back to her as a
6
mother with a lovely dancing daughter.
Love and best wishes go with you Sue and heartfelt thanks for all the little things that make up the
huge contribution you have made to the Wellington RAD scene - we will miss you!
Arohanui Deirdre.
We are delighted that Fiona Arbuckle has agreed to become the Wellington/Nelson-Marlborough AO.
Welcome to your expanded role with the RAD, Fiona.
NEWS & EVENTS
Farewell to Sharon Dickinson – Waikato Area Organiser
Sharon has been the wonderful Waikato Area Organiser for 4 years, having taken over from Annette
Leach in 2014. We are sorry to see her go. Thanks, Sharon.
I will unfortunately be stepping down as Area Organiser for Waikato, and I would
like to take this opportunity of thanking all the teachers, Janet & Nina and all
the Examiners who visited this area in the last four years for their kindness &
support. I have thoroughly enjoyed the short period I had the privilege of being
Area Organiser. As I hand over to Angela Guernier, Area Organiser for the Bay
of Plenty, I’m sure she will receive the same support I enjoyed. I wish each and
every one of you all the very best for the future.
The luncheon Sharon provided Tribute from Kerry Mills: On behalf of myself and all of
for Judith Ward’s farewell. the RAD teachers in the Waikato area I would like to thank
Sharon for her amazing hospitality and support over the last
four years. Sharon had big shoes to fill following Annette
Leach as Area Organiser and she has done a superb job. I
think a real highlight was Judith Ward's retirement luncheon,
which Sharon hosted in her own home. It was a superbly
catered event fit for a queen, set in her stunning garden. We
will miss our teacher get-togethers where Sharon was so
good at bringing us all together, and would like to wish her all the best for her future endeavours.
We are delighted that the Bay of Plenty Area Organiser, Angela Guernier, has agreed to cover the
Waikato region as well as BOP. Welcome to your expanded role with the RAD, Angela.
Message from Luke Rittner – RAD Chief Executive
It is with regret that I have to inform you that, for reasons of ill health, Paula
Hunt has decided to step down as artistic director in May of this year. As many
of you will know, just months in to her new role, an accident resulted in a major
operation on her foot and an extended leave of absence. Unfortunately though,
Paula’s recovery has been slowed by complications, she feels strongly that the
physical limitations imposed by her injury have compromised her ability to deliver
to the full extent of her talents in the role.
Paula has asked me to convey a personal message to her colleagues around the world:
"The role of artistic director at the RAD is of course about artistic vision and integrity; however, it is
also a very visible and physical role. My injury does not enable me to carry it out in the way in which
I would like, and more importantly, the way the RAD deserves. And so, I have decided to step down.
While this has been a very difficult decision, I will be excited to see where my successor will take the
organisation as it approaches its most significant milestone in 2020.”
7
The role of artistic director is obviously integral to the RAD, and we will begin the search as quickly as
we can. As this is such a vital role, however, we will not rush the recruitment process, and the Executive
Board and I will work closely with Paula to ensure a seamless transition for Paula’s successor.
There will be more information available in due course, but for now I know that you will share in my
heartfelt gratitude to Paula for her time as Artistic Director.
NEWS & EVENTS
Iain Mackay and Photo: John Kanellopoulos
dancers at the launch
Photo: David Tett
Project B
Since the launch of Project B last summer, boys Discovering Repertoire
from all over the world have been getting involved
with this special initiative, inspiring boys of all Discovering Repertoire is a flexible, modular,
ages to dance. Project B is the RAD's inspirational classical ballet performance programme taught
celebration of boys and men who dance. at three levels for students aged 12 through to
adult. Uniquely, it includes well-known classical
The project reached a major milestone in October repertoire, meaning students will learn and dance
when over 50 boys took part in a flashmob style choreography that they have seen on stage, set
performance in London's King's Cross Station, to music that they know and love, with the option
led by RAD Male Dance Ambassador Iain of taking exams.
Mackay. This was followed by the release of a
global mass performance video, featuring boys The programme was launched in Australia on 19
from all over the world who had been learning the January at the Unravelling Repertoire Conference
Project B choreography. Watch our videos at in Brisbane. Since then, the new work has been
www.rad.org.uk/projectb showcased around the world through a series
of launch events in countries including the USA,
Bursaries are now available for Project B boys Germany, Singapore, Greece, Cyprus, South
who wish to partake in dance activities in the UK, Korea and the UK, where it was well received by
or for male applicants wishing to study on the teachers.
RAD’s initial teacher training programmes (BA
(Hons) Ballet Education; Professional Dancers’ The variations studied are taken from Coppélia
Teaching Diploma), in addition to an enhanced and Giselle (at Level 2), Paquita and The
range of boys-only student activities in Australia. Sleeping Beauty (at Level 3), and The Nutcracker
and Swan Lake (at Level 4).
For more details, visit www.rad.org.uk/projectb,
8
contact projectb@rad.org.uk, or follow the Teachers can discover more about the
hashtag #RADProjectB on social media. programme at www.rad.org.uk/discovering-
repertoire and can order the materials from the
NZ office.
NEWS & EVENTS
Discovering Repertoire in New Zealand
Wellington Pre-launch
Over 30
teachers in
Wellington,
and a similar
number in
Auckland,
appreciated
the Discovering
Repertoire
pre-launch
courses tutored
by Paula Hunt
in December.
Auckland Pre-launch
Unravelling Repertoire
To coincide with the launch of Discovering Repertoire, the Faculty of Education and RAD Australia
ran a conference at Queensland University of Technology on 20–21 January. The event brought
together various perspectives on the histories, practices and pedagogies associated with dance
repertoire, and included a keynote address by Dr Michelle Potter, and papers by Faculty of
Education staff, as well as colleagues from a variety of institutions and organisations.
9
Other highlights included repertoire coaching sessions by Matthew Lawrence (QUT) and Expressions
Dance Company, as well as a panel chaired by Professor Gene Moyle, while award-winning
choreographer Liz Lea presented her research on Ruth St Denis. Dr Kathrina Farrugia-Kriel and a
member of the artistic team from Queensland Ballet led a public conversation on repertoire and the
21st century.
NEWS & EVENTS
Sharing Page
Readers are invited to contribute to future ‘Sharing Pages’ by sending information, ideas and suggestions
that may be useful to others. NZ Examiners have kindly put together the following suggestions of ways
that teachers can help their students prepare for examinations.
Examiner Feedback
Examinations should be a very positive and enjoyable occasion for students and to help with this,
here are a few suggestions from Examiners.
Students demonstrate their confidence from the very beginning of the exam. Running into the room
and saying their greeting in a positive manner to the examiner (and the pianist if there is one), sets
the occasion.
To assist candidates to give of their best, distractions need to be reduced to a minimum. Students
should stand quietly and respectfully at the side while others perform; all props for the day should be
placed in the exam room prior to the start of the day. If during the course of the day there needs to
be a change of CD operator, this should only be done during a scheduled break.
Ongoing checking of the relevant syllabus helps maximise the candidates’ opportunities to display
their full abilities.
Don’t hesitate to contact the RAD office if you need advice about something - any queries will be
passed on to examiners.
10
Photo: Kirsty YeungCompetition Dates: 12–13 May 2018 Enrol online 17/3/18 – 14/4/18 at Centennial Theatre, Auckland at https://www.asiangrandprix.org
REGIONAL FOCUS
Auckland
Happy New Year from Auckland/Northland!
Our year started with Advanced 2 Revision and Free Enchaînements courses run by Sue Nicholls.
We don’t see Sue in Auckland very often, so it was lovely to have her with us for a couple of days.
Free Enchaînements course participants:
Back: Maree Montford, Carl Myers,
Heather Palmer, Jill Arkley, Lea Sandford.
Middle: Saraliese Cranch, Diane
Willcox, Sue Nicholls (tutor), Dianne
Wallace, Shireen Breebaart, Megan
Quatermass (pianist)
Front: Georgia Boyd, Kristin Orr
Auckland Academy of Dance reports that the exciting appointment of Nicci McEwan to be senior
ballet teacher is a great opportunity for their students to learn from a former ballerina. Nicci trained
at the Canadian National Ballet School and graduated from the Royal Ballet School. At age 17 she
accepted a contract with The Scottish Ballet where she became a principal dancer dancing in the
major classical ballets and performing around the world including the Bolshoi Theatre: the Kremlin,
for the royal family in South Korea and represented The Scottish Ballet in Brazil performing for the
Royal Academy of Dance. Nicci set up her own school and guest taught in Glasgow before moving
in 2013 to Auckland where she teaches for The New Zealand Dance Company and coaches
aspiring dancers.
Mary Poppins was the highly successful end-of-year production
where many students, as well as performing in ballet, contemporary
and jazz pieces, were introduced to tap which proved to be
very popular.
One of the beautiful contemporary/lyrical pieces was choreographed
for 7 male dancers and was set to music played as a violin solo
by the talented Aleena Griffiths, who also dances all genres at an
12
advanced level.
The popular AAD Vocational Seminars will be held 24-27 April and 17-20 July. Held prior to the
examination sessions, these have become an essential part of training for many dancers who return
year after year to have specialized coaching with RAD Examiners and a chance to rehearse with
exam pianists.REGIONAL FOCUS
Rowe Dance Studios were excited to learn over the summer that
intermediate foundation student Lukas Maher (11) has been re-accepted
into the Australian Ballet School’s International Training Programme for
2018. Congratulations Lukas on the result of all of your hard work!
Photo: Beth Maskey
Santarelli School of Dance
had a great time in term 4
with their Christmas show
Lights and Thunder at
Waipuna Conference Centre
in Auckland, describing it as
“truly a fantastic week for
everyone.” Pictured are some
of their preschool, intermediate
foundation, and grade 5
students during showtime.
Shore Dance finished another great year with their end of year
shows. The junior school performed Welcome to the Jungle and the
senior school performed Iconic. They report that they are excited to
have both Whitney Featherstone and Josie Heenan back teaching
RAD this year after having a year off with their new babies. They 13
are also happy to have ballet teachers Stephanie Southan, Kezia
Crawford and Olivia Morrison continuing at Shore Dance as they
celebrate their tenth year.
Amber Coates performing in Iconic
Photo: Capture PhotographyREGIONAL FOCUS
Apollo Theatre School looks forward to another
inspirational year for their dancers. With expansion
in musical theatre, open classes and performance
opportunities they expect a busy year with lots of
exciting things to come.
Thomas Harris (now at Melbourne City Ballet elite training
programme) & Emma Neill dancing as Franz and Swanhilda
(wedding scene) in Apollo Theatre School's production of
Coppelia.
Photo: Daniel Brunskill
Devonport School of Dance students enjoyed performing their annual show Dancing Through Oz
at the Bruce Mason Theatre at the end of term four last year. It was a wonderful end to the year with
students showcasing their
talents and love of dance to
family and friends. The school
is excited to announce the
purchase of Made To Move
Dance and is very much
looking forward to welcoming
students into the Devonport
School of Dance family.
Photo: Ashley Hodges
Bream Bay Ballet’s year-end recital was
Snow White which was staged at Bream Bay
College in November 2017.
Photo: Bec Shepherd.
14
Deborah MorrisonREGIONAL FOCUS
Waikato
2018 looks set for exciting challenges for many in the RAD family. All the Waikato teachers are going
to miss Janet when she retires shortly. She will always be fondly remembered for her calm, caring
and reassuring approach in handling all situations. We wish her everything of the best for a long and
happy retirement
Valerie Lissette School of Dance enjoyed preparing
for and performing their 2017 annual production From
Paris to the Pacific.
Thames Hauraki Ballet Theatre had an exciting and successful 2017. The concert featuring
contemporary ‘Quixote’ story Alice in Wonderland and Classical showpiece Paquita was a huge
highlight. Featured in photos are Aidan Tully as the Mad Hatter dancing with Leela Woolf as Alice
and Alisha Wathen as the White Rabbit. With Aidan in Paquita are Jana Merz and Kimberley Mear.
Pauline Germon reports that in 2018 Jana Merz will move on to University and Kimberley Mear
will attend the Future Dancers programme at MEBA. Both dancers have made a huge contribution
to THBT over many years and are wished every success
Grace Merwyn from Taupo joins THBT's Major school this year.
Aidan Tully, Alisha Wathen and Rowan Wathen have been accepted into the NZSD Junior
Associates programme and Aidan will also attend the Australian Ballet School’s International
Training Program men’s coaching sessions.
15
Sharon DickinsonREGIONAL FOCUS
Bay of Plenty
Now that 2018 is well underway, show costumes have
been boxed up and students are being introduced to their
new syllabi and are facing fresh challenges.
In this Bay of Plenty Regional Focus, we take a look back
at recent images from 2017 productions; we look forward
to watching the progress of some future stars of the
stage; and we talk to one of our three BOP RAD active
life members.
Angela Guernier and Shirleen Breebaart at the These experienced teachers continue to mentor and
'farewell and welcome' in Tauranga on 21 February. motivate students with their wealth of knowledge.
Shows
Shirleen Breebaart's
Dance Institute
Show Up and Away
Kaleidoscope's Dance Studio's Andrea Zwezerynen reports: “We were so happy that over 280 peo-
ple came to celebrate our end-of-year production The Book of Life. The show featured live singers and
actors as well as our amazing dancers to share the legend of Manolo in his vibrant fantastic adventures.
Our dancers of all ages shone on stage, and we couldn’t be more proud of their achievements.”
Life is much better in a Pompom tutu Bringing the
characters to
life requires
a lot of fun
make up: The
goddess La
16 Muerte and
one of the
lovely young
dancers
Rikayla of
the showREGIONAL FOCUS
Christmas in the Park Dance Century
Dance Central's Iggy Gloy reports that their Senior Performance group successfully auditioned and
performed at 2017’s Coca-Cola Christmas in the Park in Auckland, and also received a PACANZ
nomination for 2018. “This was followed by their efficacious end of year production Dance Century
which took audiences for a boogie down memory lane. From the Roaring 20s, the Fast Feet 40s,
Swinging 60s, the Disco 70s, the Heavy Metal 80s to the present day, audiences were tapping,
clapping and singing along.”
Future stars
This year Dance Central farewells Aimee Golebiowski and Lauren Hughes
as they head off to further their journeys in dance. Aimee is heading to
Australia to start the full time course at Ettingshausens and Lauren is off to
Apollo Theatre School in Auckland. Iggy Gloy says “We will miss them and
wish them all the best for their bright futures.”
Debbie Gooch reports that “It is with excitement Dance Education Centre
celebrates Olivia Moore’s contract with the Royal NZ Ballet Company after
only one year at the NZ School of Dance. Olivia has been a hardworking
and dedicated student throughout the years and it has been her dream from
a young age to dance professionally with the company. At age 16 Olivia is 17
well underway with her dance career and we wish her the very best. Olivia
follows in the footsteps of other DEC students Katherine Skelton (nee
Grange), and Julie Aldridge.”
Photo: Shotz Photography, DunedinREGIONAL FOCUS
RAD Life Member Anne Samson
To be eligible for RAD teaching life membership
a teacher must have had 42 years of continuous
membership. These teachers around the world form
the backbone of the organisation. Rotorua’s own Anne
Samson achieved this milestone several years ago and
is currently in her 47th year of teaching. Aspiring dancers
are extremely lucky to have a teacher of Anne’s calibre
Anne then and now and experience in their city. I asked her to share some
photos, past and present, and to shed some light on her inspirations, highlights and successes as a
teacher over her long career.
Who were your teachers and what was the most important thing they taught you?
Anne: My mentors were my teachers – examiner Creina Gee and Rosemary Clark. These two
teachers inspired me with such encouragement that I could achieve by listening, watching and
developing an eye for corrections. They had patience and understanding. I developed a strong
passion to teach and develop young students in all aspects.
What are some highlights of your teaching career?
Anne: I loved being able to run a strong primary school program for 15 years within the community.
A highlight in my life was when a former school student came up to me and stated "that is why I turned
up to class, for your dance program". Other highlights are adjudicating and teaching at Seminars.
Where have some of your students moved in the dance world?
Anne: Former students are now placed, or have been, at Houston
Ballet Company 11, in Turkey, at Disney World Tokyo, on the Unitec
full-time contemporary course in Auckland and at the NZSD. The trend
continues this year as Sharvon Mortimer has been accepted for the
full-time Unitec Contemporary Major. Former student Emily Campbell is
responsible for choreographing a full syllabus for Contemporary Dance,
creating 10 levels Lucidity Contemporary Syllabi for APDA.
What are the major changes you have seen in the RAD?
Anne: The RAD has gone from strength to strength in becoming
Emily (front row, far right) is
pictured with Anne and her more up-to-date for today's generations while still maintaining and
class 30 years ago. encapsulating the true form of classical dance, giving the teachers the
opportunity to grow and expand their knowledge. The availability of music has been a huge asset for
both teacher and student.
What are your words of wisdom for new teachers?
Anne: Stay creative, inspire your students and maintain respect and good discipline at all times.
18 Thank you to Anne for sharing her memories and thoughts and here’s hoping she enjoys many more
years of welcoming dancers to the world of ballet. We wish the best of luck to Aimee, Lauren, Olivia
and Sharvon as they start out in their careers.
Happy 2018 to all.
Angela GuernierREGIONAL FOCUS
Hawkes Bay
Briar Horrocks Studio: Congratulations to Monique Walford who has been accepted in to Whitirea
where she will commence training shortly, and to Estelle Taylor who, after 2 years at The Edge in
Melbourne, has been chosen to work at Disneyland in Paris as Minnie Mouse. Briar reports that there
is great excitement in the studio for these two dancers who were in the same class for 13 years before
leaving to take up their chosen careers. Congratulations also to Laura Beanland-Stephens who has
finished her 3 years at the NZSD, and has returned to Wellington after her OE. She will be performing in
a House of Sands production in March.
In November the Nadine Antoinette School of Dance staged a very successful year-end
production of The Nutcracker, resulting in fantastic feedback from both the audience and the
performers. Congratulations to Austin Rice who has been accepted as a full-time classical student
at the NZSD for 2018. We wish him all the best.
Snowflakes Austin Rice as the Nutcracker
Photo: Stephen Jones Photography
Annette Davey
Manawatu – Wanganui – Taranaki
Two very successful Focus on Variations courses (one at Intermediate Foundation and the other at
Intermediate level) were held at Evolve Studios in Palmerston North in February. Those who attended
found the course very rewarding and we thank Alison Pond for making the day very successful.
Intermediate Foundation Focus on Variations attendees.
Back: Emma Skinner, Judith Fuge, Alison Pond
(tutor), Nicola Swallow, Maxene Jeffares-Greer,
Alisha Gabrielsen
Front: Vynessa Smith, Belinda Hunt, Emma Body, Amy
Macdonald-Te Huki.
Whanganui Ballet and
Dance Academy is very
proud of 11-year-old Mira
Meijer who has been accepted 19
as a level three National
Scholar with the NZSD. We
wish Mira all the best as she
starts this new exciting stage of
her dance training.
Marion DavenportREGIONAL FOCUS
Wellington
Happy New Year! It has been a busy end-of-2017 in Wellington judging by all the concert photos we’ve
received from our teachers.
This year we started off with two teachers’ courses tutored by Carole Speirs. It was great to meet so
many teachers from around the region.
Advanced 2 Revision attendees. Free Enchaînements attendees.
Back: Caroline Tan, Carole Speirs (tutor), Bronwyn Back: Anna Chandulal, Saba Polderman-Charles
Bennett, Maureen Ax, Alison Pond, Maxene Jeffares- Colleen Cox, Carole Speirs (tutor), Fleur Rodway,
Greer, Briar Horrocks, Lynne Harrison, William Green Maureen Ax, Caroline Tan, William Green (pianist).
(pianist). Front: Anita Perin-Zgomba, Alannah Hare,
Front: Nadine Proctor, Vynessa Smith, Fleur Rodway, Fiona Hulands
Sarah Boocock
Chilton Dance Centre: Bronwyn Bennett reports that “2017 was a wonderful year for Chilton Dance
Centre culminating with a sensational performance of Where In the World is Carmen Sandiego. The
audience was transported around the globe and treated to spectacular storytelling and wonderful
dancing by our students from Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Funk, Contemporary and Musical Theatre
classes. The end-of-year performances are always a highlight for our students and we love seeing
their enthusiasm and love of dance shine.”
20
Photo: Amber Griffin Photography
Past Chilton Dance Centre student Tayla Best recently graduated with a BA (Hons) Ballet Education
and Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Dance in London. Tayla is now teaching in several schools
in the London area. We are extremely proud of Tayla, it is always very special to see our students
following their dreams.REGIONAL FOCUS
Fiona Haines Dance Academy: Scenes from Fiona Haines
India Shackle – Snow Goose
Dance Academy, Wellington end of 2017 year production of
The Snow Goose and Around the World. The Snow Goose is a
famous English story set during the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation of
British troops during WW2.
Photo: Amber Griffin Photography
Tarrant Dance Studios: Deirdre Tarrant reports that a very busy performing year for Tarrant Dance
Studios ended with a Welly Christmas – a real Christmas medley of favourite songs danced by the
younger students on a purpose-made open air stage in the centre of the CBD in Midland Park. As
well in December, senior scholars performed as part of the Mayoral Forum hosted by WCC at Te
Papa and at the Xiamen Association 30th birthday event. Welly Christmas 2017 audiences were
huge (78,000) and 2018 started with a big crowd at the Rose Gardens for Giraffes Can’t Dance as
part of Kids Magic for WCC Summer Festival. Chinese New Year came up fast in February and
scholars opened the programmes with Taniwha Loong as well as with course of study dancers
dancing alongside master choreographer Stan Chan to celebrate the year of the dog. Deirdre
concludes: “It has been a perfect summer for Wellingtonians and outdoor shows have been
amazing. It is back to the studio for a new year of classes and choreographies – love dancing!“
Denise Walker Dance Academy had their very first show,
The Enchanted Garden, in December. Students from Otaki
21
through to Paekakariki performed at Kapiti College.
Many of the Academy’s students had been learning RAD
ballet for only a short period of time and had little experience
performing on stage. Denise comments that it was a
big learning curve for all involved but a lot of fun and a
Photo: Stephen A'Court huge success.REGIONAL FOCUS
Mary Rodgers Ballet Academy: Congratulations to Mary Rodgers who has just celebrated 50 years
of teaching in the Hutt Valley with a 50th Anniversary Concert of the The Nutcracker ballet. Mary
comments that she is very privileged to have 3 dancing granddaughters. The photo, bottom right, is of
grandchildren Samantha Klee as a Polichinelle, Lucy Klee (who has also been selected as a child in the
RNZB production of The Piano) as Clara, only grandson Kyan Dearmer as backstage crew, and Phoenix
Dearmer as Snow Queen. Costumes were supplied by the very talented Anthea Thompson from That’s
a Wrap costumes. Mary’s daughter Davinia also teaches in the Academy – a real family affair!
Congratulations to Olivia van Woerkom, former student of Mary Rodgers
Ballet Academy, and present Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies student.
At a Nikau Foundation function in December, Olivia was presented with a
scholarship which was given on behalf of the Warren Douglas Scholarship
Fund. Warren was a former dancer with the Royal New Zealand Ballet and
Olivia feels very grateful to have received this assistance towards her RAD
CBTS fees.
GHDance: Georgia Hofsteede reports that “the December recital of The Wizard of Oz was a huge
success with beautiful performances from all the children and two sell-out shows. It was great to
see such strong mime and expression coming through. The RAD syllabus especially the Primary,
Grade 1 and 2 dances have really helped in developing this. We received lots of positive feedback -
it was definitely the highlight of the ballet year and a great way to finish 2017.”
22
Dorothy meets the Munchkins Flying Monkeys Dorothy (Corry) Scarecrow (Hadley),
(Eliza) Tin Man (Ava) and Lion (Micaela)
Photo: Zoom Photography.
Fiona ArbuckleREGIONAL FOCUS
Christchurch
I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and break. End-of-year school shows went well thanks to
teachers, mums and dads and of course the students. As we all know, without all these people we would
have no lovely shows to watch. We have at least six dancers going to Wellington this year for either the
NZSD Junior Associates and/or into the Scholars - well done Christchurch teachers!
We had a good start to the year with Sue Nicholls taking the Inside Exams course, which had a great
turn out of teachers. They said they got a lot out of doing this course, as did our RAV pianist, Wayne
Twohill.
Back: Saba Polderman-
Charles (partially
obscured), Nadia
White, Anna Lee,
Christine MacDonald
(totally obscured).
Middle: Melanie
Wheeler, Julie
Gallie, Emma Body,
Angie Longman,
Nicky Falloon.
Front: Wayne Twohilll,
Jessica Pugh, Frances
Scott, Philippa Pidgeon,
Rebecca Bignall,
Hayley Watts
Students from Anna
Lee School of Dance
attended the Greymouth
Competitions late last
year. Students competed
in team events, solos
and duos achieving 49
placings and 12 special
awards. A fantastic and
fun time was had by all.
Congratulations must go to Jonty (Sir Jon Trimmer) having danced with the RNZB for 60 years. Well
done Jonty - the audiences love watching you.
It will be sad to say goodbye to our National Director Janet who has done a wonderful job for the RAD
23
teachers. If I remember rightly Janet and I started working for the RAD around the same time which
was many, many years ago. I wish her all the very best and I am sure that I can say that for all the
Christchurch teachers as well. Sue Tuck is also stepping down as the Wellington/Nelson-Marlborough
Area Organiser which she has been for over 20 years. A lot of you have met Sue at the NZSD. She has
done a wonderful job, and has helped me out a couple of times over the years. We will all miss her.
Lynda SaxtonREGIONAL FOCUS
Otago
When Shona Dunlop MacTavish was made the first honorary member of Dance Aotearoa New
Zealand (DANZ), it was fitting that the special presentation was held on a theatre stage. On 12
December 2017, Dunedin’s Regent Theatre stage was adorned with fairy lights and chandeliers, and
looked truly magical. DANZ presented the award to Shona in recognition of her lifetime contribution
to the art from of dance. When Shona arrived for the presentation, there were cheers and
enthusiastic applause from the many guests who had come to honour her achievement, and it was
clear the Shona was overwhelmed by all the attention. A number of warm and glowing tributes were
given by DANZ chief executive Anton Carter, Lyne Pringle, Dr Carol Brown, Dr Suzanne Renner,
Louise Petherbridge QSM, and Bronwyn Judge. Guests were then treated to a performance of one
of Shona’s works The Vision of Hildegard by dancer Heather Huber, soloist Ana Good and harpist
Kirsten Andreae. Shona’s daughter Terry MacTavish gave a recitation of Hildegard’s words and
added some amusing anecdotes about Shona, which were well received.
Born in Dunedin, Shona studied in Europe with expressionist dancer Gertrude Bodenwieser and
later joined the Bodenwieser Ballet. She toured with the company in the 40’s and 50’s and opened
her own studio in Dunedin in 1958. She set up the Dunedin Dance Theatre in 1963 and continued
teaching dance until 2015.
The atmosphere of the event was one of camaraderie – with guests enjoying the opportunity to
look at the display of Shona’s costumes, memorabilia and (particularly fascinating) old scrapbooks.
Overall, a marvellous afternoon to honour one of Dunedin’s premier dance figures.
Joy Pearson
Genée 2018
This year’s Genée International Ballet Competition Photo: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts
will take place in Hong Kong for the second time in
the competition’s history, running from 3–12 August.
Five days of coaching will take place at the Hong
Kong Academy of Performing Arts from 4–8 August,
where the Semi-finals will also be held on 9–10
August. The Final will take place at Hong Kong
City Hall (pictured above) on 12 August where the
selected Finalists will compete for bronze, silver and
gold medals.
Candidate applications open in May. Prospective candidates wishing to apply for a bursary can send in their
application from now until the end of March.
24
Priority booking for the Semi-finals and Final is open to RAD Members. Take advantage of the early bird
member discount at www.rad.org.uk/genee2018
The RAD is also pleased to announce locations for the subsequent competitions: the Genée will return to
Toronto in 2019 and to London for the RAD’s centenary in 2020.
Follow the conversation online using #Genee2018OTHER DANCE NEWS
New Zealand School of Dance
The New Zealand School of Dance (NZSD)
continues with their celebrations. In 2018, the School
acknowledges Garry Trinder’s 20-year anniversary as
Director of NZSD. Garry began his directorship with the
New Zealand School of Dance on 15 January 1998.
Over his twenty-year tenureship he has grown the
School’s reputation internationally; including forging relationships with
Photo: Stephen
A'Court acclaimed international classical ballet competitions, and setting up
exchange programmes with top dance training schools.
“There has been no ‘one moment’ that makes me feel gratified to be the School’s Director, rather
a series of moments where I see successful alumni of the School realise their dreams through
dance. It is watching and teaching our students training to be the absolute best that they can be.”
The School will be participating in the Académie de Danse festival
to be held in Tahiti mid-March. Four students along with Classical
Tutor Turid Revfeim will take part in Master classes and classical &
contemporary performances.
Upcoming Events on 28 & 29 March: Insight Studio Performances
– One hour of classical and contemporary dance works by NZSD
students. Find out more at www.nzschoolofdance.ac.nz
New Zealand School of Dance students Ngaere Jenkins & Sebastian Geilings
Photo: Stephen A'Court
The Apollo Theatre College has a large intake this year for its Diploma
in Commercial Dance and is looking forward to preparing the students
for the commercial dance industry.
Chilton Ballet Academy starts 2018 with a new group
of students joining their second year students in a unique
programme of academic study and ballet training. They 25
Samantha Ead at the Queensland
National Ballet School
report: “The inaugural year of the Academy was a great
success, and we are excited for the year ahead. We are
proud that 2017 CBA Graduate Sam Ead has commenced fulltime training at Queensland National
Ballet School. We are extremely proud of Sam and look forward to seeing where her dance journey
leads her.”OTHER DANCE NEWS
Dance Teachers Professional Development Seminar
Open to classical ballet teachers of any experience level, this non-syllabus 2-day course led by our
Artistic Director, Patricia Barker, will include observation of company class, demonstrations, theory
tutorials, and practical sessions complemented by talks and Q&A sessions.
Aims
• To provide teachers with a fundamental understanding of the foundations of classical ballet technique
• To provide teachers with a grounding in relevant education practice
• To assist teachers in improving the effectiveness of the teaching / learning process
This seminar, scheduled to coincide with the beginning of the first end-of-term school holidays, will be
held in the RNZB Studios at the St. James Theatre, Wellington.
Dates: Monday 16 April & Tuesday 17 April, 2018
Cost: $150. (morning & afternoon tea provided, lunches not included)
A certificate of participation will be provided at the end of the 2-day seminar.
RAD Registered Teachers may consider these sessions to be claimable as part of RAD CPD.
(Royal Academy of Dance Continuing Professional Development).
Introducing the RNZB Artistic Team
RNZB Artistic Director Ballet Masters: Clytie Campbell, Nicholas Schultz and Laura McQueen Schultz
Patricia Barker
26 Photo: Stephen A’CourtOTHER DANCE NEWS
Detailed schedule
Monday 16 April
9am – 9.30am Welcome Address/Introduction (Patricia Barker and RNZB Ballet Masters)
9.30am – 10.45am Observation of the RNZB Company Class (Patricia Barker)
11am – 12pm Open forum on the elements of the class including analysis of barre, centre work
and lesson planning (Patricia Barker and RNZB Ballet Masters)
12pm – 1pm Session on the importance of the foundations of classical ballet technique
for junior level students including posture, placement, use of turn-out, balletic
patterns, and combinations. (Patricia Barker and RNZB Ballet Masters)
1pm – 2pm Lunch
2pm – 3pm Classical variation coaching demonstration (Patricia Barker and RNZB dancers)
3pm – 4pm Discussion on pointe work (Patricia Barker and Laura McQueen Schultz)
4pm – 4.30pm Afternoon Tea
4.30pm – 5.30pm Point shoe seminar – Analyse pointe work for students at different levels of
training and the importance of pointe shoe fitting (Patricia Barker and RNZB
Ballet Masters)
Tuesday 17 April
9.30am – 10.45am Participation in a structured classical ballet class (practical for participants
– optional) (Laura McQueen Schultz)
10.45am – 11.15am Morning Tea
11.15am – 12.15pm Session on the essential ballet technique for senior students (Patricia Barker
and Clytie Campbell)
12.15pm – 1.30pm Discussion on partnering with demonstration by RNZB dancers
(Nicholas Schultz)
1.30pm – 2.30pm Lunch
2.30pm – 4.30pm Seminar on practical teaching practice for turns, jumps and extensions. The
aim of this session is also to highlight the importance of developing artistry in
tandem with technique (Patricia Barker and RNZB Ballet Masters)
4.30pm – 5.30pm Closing remarks and Q&A (Patricia Barker)
For all education enquiries, please contact RNZB Education & Community Manager Pascale Parenteau, 27
pascale@rnzb.org.nz / 04 381 9001UK NEWS
What made you decide to study the MA
at the RAD?
I have a great passion for knowledge and
learning. Whilst I have attained teaching
qualifications with dance examination boards,
which I found to be professionally enriching, I
wanted to study for a postgraduate qualification in
order to explore dance teaching from a different
viewpoint. When I discovered the RAD’s MA
programme I felt it had been tailor-made for
me. As the programme is delivered by distance
learning and is part-time, I could fit my studies
around my teaching and other commitments.
What topics have you studied?
I have studied diverse topics including research
methods, cultural studies, assessment issues
in dance, politics, society, youth dance, and
dance as lifelong learning. For me, conducting
practice-based research which draws on my
experience as a teacher has been the highlight
of the programme, as well as providing excellent
preparation for my final year research project.
Elisabeth Hartling How does studying by distance work?
Photo: Jessica Peckham
Having never studied through distance learning,
the first semester was a steep learning curve.
Enriching at a distance Being a distance learner means being organised,
The MA in Education (Dance Teaching) delivered disciplined and sticking to a study schedule. Self-
by the Faculty of Education is a well-established motivation is also key. I access module materials
and highly regarded programme of study via the RAD’s Virtual Learning Environment,
designed specifically for experienced dance which also provides everything else I need to
teachers interested in furthering their skills and complete my studies. The student forums are a
challenging their ideas about dance teaching fabulous way to get to know other students by
practice. Current student and RAD Registered providing opportunities to discuss topics with
Teacher Elisabeth Hartling describes her your peers and tutors. Despite being in Canada,
experience of studying on the programme. I haven’t felt isolated from my tutors or other
students – technology is a wonderful thing!
Where are you based and what do you teach?
What impact has the programme had on your
I live in Canada and teach primarily in the private professional and personal development?
sector at Mount Pearl School of Dance, which
I co-own. I mainly teach RAD ballet, but also I think it is fair to say that the MA programme
give classes in Cecchetti ballet, tap and Irish has had a significant impact on my life due to
dance. Beyond the private sector, I co-teach the opportunities it has provided. Most notably,
28 in 2016 I presented my research on assessment
the Dance for Life with Parkinson’s programme
in conjunction with the Parkinson Society issues in dance at the RAD’s Dance Education in
of Newfoundland. I am also the apprentice the Twenty-First Century: Practice and Innovation
programme coordinator for the province’s only conference in Sydney. My MA journey has been
semi-professional dance company, Kittiwake very challenging yet rewarding, and it has led me
Dance Theatre. to realise that I want to keep learning.UK NEWS
When the time is right I want to study for a PhD in at Masters level, I would recommend doing the
ballet history, and the MA has been instrumental Masters Access Module as it offers a realistic
in inspiring and preparing me to do so. insight into the practicalities of distance learning,
What advice would you give to an RAD teacher and gives a taste of what it is to be an MA student.
who is considering the MA?
I have made friendships that literally span the
I wholeheartedly recommend the MA programme, globe, and truly feel that the quality of what I am
and truly feel that I have developed professionally learning is second to none. If you’re considering
throughout the process. It has changed the way studying on this programme, I absolutely think
I approach how I teach and why. If you’re unsure you should!
about enrolling but are curious about studying
www.rad.org.uk/mae
Safeguarding Do you have child protection and anti-bullying
policies? Can you provide copies if requested?
‘All organisations that work with or come into Where are these published?
contact with children,’ states the National
Do all staff members have a police vetting
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to
check? Do you use volunteers who may or may
Children (NSPCC), ‘should have safeguarding
not be police vetted?
polices and procedures to ensure that every
child, regardless of their age, gender, religion Have all staff members attended safeguarding
or ethnicity, can be protected from harm.’ training?
Following feedback from RAD Registered Does the same staff member teach or provide
Teachers, we are aware that many of you administration every week/session?
find safeguarding information and legislation
confusing. As teachers, you need to make sure If children have to change their clothes,
the way you work with children keeps them what are the arrangements and how is this
safe and does not place them at unacceptable supervised?
risk of harm. You can do this through:
Who should you speak to if you have a concern,
• establishing, implementing and following or a parent or carer reports a concern?
good safeguarding policies and procedures
What provision is there for drop-off and
including safe recruitment
collection? What procedures are in place if
• ensuring all staff and volunteers are children are not collected from the premises?
aware of and follow the organisation’s
Do parents wait while their child is at the
safeguarding policies and procedures
activity, and if so where?
• ensuring that all staff and volunteers receive
child protection training. If, after this, you have further questions, talk to
the safeguarding lead at your local authority.
Ask yourself the following questions to see
if your organisation meets the statutory Need help writing your safeguarding policy?
responsibilities and know where improvements For guidance, visit the RAD website to view our 29
can be made: policy.
Who is the lead within your organisation for Looking for a safeguarding course? Visit the
safeguarding concerns? What are their RAD website for the latest list of online CPD
contact details? activities – www.rad.org.uk/study/cpdUK NEWS
Academia Veneta Di Danza Balletto
Dance Proms
Dance Proms in November 2017 was another
resounding success at London’s Royal Albert
Hall, showcasing performances from 20 dance
schools from across the UK, Malta, Italy, Austria
and Vietnam, and featuring 350 young dancers.
Inspirational guest acts included Nafisah Baba
(BBC Young Dancer winner 2017), and the
street dance troupe Flawless performing with
young members of the Flawless Dance School.
Christopher Thomas, who was named the Dance
Proms Young Choreographer 2017, performed an
emotional piece with his dance partner Hannah
McGlashon.
It is with some sadness that the Royal Albert Hall
has decided not to continue its support for Dance
Proms, and the two remaining partners, the RAD
and ISTD, have decided after discussion that the
2017 performance was therefore the last Dance
Proms. But we also look back with an immense
sense of achievement. Over the last seven years,
more than 1,800 young dancers have had the
privilege of dancing at one of the world’s most
iconic arts venues.
30 We would like to thank all the performers and
their teachers for making the last Dance Proms a
Nafisah Baba hugely inspirational and memorable event; it was
All photos: Elliott Franks a fitting end to a truly wonderful project. We would
also like to thank everyone that has taken part or
supported Dance Proms since the very beginning.UK NEWS
Photo: Elliott Franks Photo: Andy Ross
Dame Darcey Bussell, DBE Darcey Bussell was appointed President of the
RAD in 2012. She was formerly a Principal dancer
Royal Academy of Dance President Darcey with the Royal Ballet, the youngest ballerina to be
Bussell has been made a Dame in the New Year’s given this accolade at the time. She retired from
Honours list, which recognises the achievements the Royal Ballet in 2007, having been awarded an
of a wide range of extraordinary people across OBE in 1995 and a CBE in 2006. Now celebrated
the UK. ‘I am truly humbled to receive the honour,’ as a judge on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing,
she said. ‘I gratefully accept it on behalf of all the she continues to inspire dancers around the world
dance organisations that I am so fortunate to be in her role as President of the RAD.
part of.’
Guy Perricone, Chairman of the RAD said:
‘In Darcey Bussell, we have a passionate,
Photo: David Tett
distinguished and devoted President. Generous
with her time, she presides over every event
with the poise and precision for which she was
so famous as a dancer. Darcey applies her
huge influence to inspire people of all ages with
her love and knowledge of dance. At the Royal
Academy of Dance, we are tremendously grateful
for all she does, and are incredibly proud of her.
This honour is truly deserved, and the Board and
staff around the world congratulate her.’ 31
Darcey follows in the footsteps of former RAD
Presidents and eminent dancers Dame Adeline
Genée, Dame Margot Fonteyn, and Dame
Antoinette Sibley.You can also read
