We are saddened to announce the passing of Peggy Olden FRAD.

Peggy joined the RAD’s panel of examiners in 1972 and examined until 2000. She was assistant chair of the panel 1991 to 1997 and was held in high esteem by her friends and colleagues.

She was recognised for her considerable contribution to the Royal Academy of Dance during her long association.

John Byrne, former artistic director and chair of the panel of examiners, shared the following words about Peggy:

“Peggy was a wonderful colleague – strong and forthright in debate and discussion, but always completely loyal and supportive when decisions were taken, and dependable and thorough in everything she did. Peggy brought enormous experience to her role of caring for examiners and examinations and brought good sense, a sympathetic understanding and the acute sense of responsibility which she felt and showed to examiners and teachers when dealing with any aspect of the Academy’s work. Peggy’s high personal and professional standards provided a great example for new examiners she trained and this, together with her natural qualities of leadership and impeccable character, gave the panel of examiners a corporate sense of confidence and pride.”

Pictured: Peggy at the Spanish summer school in 1984. Photo by Fineras reportajes graficos.