Robin Windsor Dance Award

Robin Windsor Dance Award

This Mental Health Awareness Week, the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and mental health charity SANE launch an award in memory of the late Strictly star and SANE ambassador, Robin Windsor.  

The Robin Windsor Dance Award is a nationwide competition recognising an someone who has harnessed the power of dance and movement to help them through challenging times, overcome adversity, and improve their mental wellbeing. 

The award is aimed at those whose mental health has been positively affected by dance and who would benefit from mentorship and funding to support their dance development. 

“Robin Windsor was not only a dazzling dancer; he was also one of SANE’s most passionate ambassadors. Though ‘Dancing through darkness’ became our tribute to him, it captures his spirit, always encouraging others to move, to dance, and to heal. Robin spoke bravely about his struggles, hoping to help others feel less alone. We at SANE are proud to honour his legacy through this new award, in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Dance.” 
Majorie Wallace CBE, Chief Executive of SANE

“In memory of Robin Windsor, the RAD and SANE have launched an award that honours Robin’s passion for dance and his dedication to mental health advocacy. Robin believed deeply in the power of movement to heal, uplift and connect. This award seeks to recognise dancers who embody that same spirit.” 
Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the RAD 

The benefits of dance for health are numerous. Dancing keeps us fit, improves balance and coordination, and provides a sense of community and connection to other people. For our mental and emotional health specifically, dance nurtures our minds and bodies, helping us to boost our mood and manage stress levels. 

Award Details 

The recipient of the Robin Windsor Dance Award will receive: 

• a prize of £500,
• agreed travel expenses for a visit to RAD headquarters in Battersea, London,
• a one-hour dance lesson at RAD headquarters with a teacher specialising in the winner’s chosen dance style,
• RAD and SANE merchandise (including a Darcy Bussell book, and SANE and RAD t-shirts and tote bags),
• a guided tour of the RAD, and 
• personalised feedback and career advice on dance excellence from RAD professionals. 

Eligibility Criteria 

Applicants for the Robin Windsor Dance Award must meet the following requirements: 

• Be 18 years of age or older. 
• Be a UK resident. 
• Possess some dance experience. 
• Be formally trained in one or more of the specified dance genres: classical ballet, contemporary dance, or ballroom. 

Application Process 

To apply, candidates can use the form below to submit: 

• A video submission: 
• A 1-minute video demonstrating dance/movement skills. 
• The video should showcase basic technique, creativity, and passion for dance. 
• The video must be clear and of good quality; smartphone recordings are acceptable. 
• The video must be filmed in portrait orientation and be in MP4 format 
• A written submission: 
• A statement (maximum 400 words) detailing personal experiences with mental health and the role dance has played in their journey.  
• The statement should also outline aims for artistic excellence and how these are pursued through dance practice. 

Key Dates 

• Submission Deadline: Friday, 13 June 2025. 
• Winner Announced: Early July 2025. 

Judging Criteria 

Submissions will be evaluated based on: 

• technical Skill: Demonstration of dance technique and control, 
• creativity: Originality and artistic expression in the performance,
• passion: Evident enthusiasm and dedication to dance,
• a personal Story: Authenticity and depth in sharing the mental health journey and the impact of dance, and 
• artistic vision: Clarity and ambition in aim for artistic excellence. 

The judging panel  

• Marjorie Wallace, CBE, SANE CEO.
• Alexander Campbell, RAD Artistic Director. 
• Pasha Kovalev, Strictly Champion, Professional Dancer and Choreographer. 
• Jane Karczewski, RAD Trustee. 
• Alison Windsor Barlow, Family Representative. 

Entry form 

To enter for the Robin Windsor Dance Award, please complete the form below, and upload your written statement and video submission. Entries must be received before midday on Friday 13 June.