Members’ Conference London 1-Day Pass

Choreographing History: Inside the MacMillan Archives

Available for in-person and online attendees

Step behind the scenes into the world of one of ballet’s most influential choreographers. This session offers a unique opportunity to explore Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s archive, which the RAD received at the end of 2024. The archive comprises a diverse and rich range of material covering the personal, artistic and business archive of one of the most significant ballet figures of the 20th century.   

Exploring Character Dance: educating the 21st century dancer

Available for in-person and online attendees

This session explores the role of character dance in strengthening and enhancing classical ballet education for the contemporary dancer. Through discussion and practical reflection, the session will unpack key principles of character dance that support both technical and artistic development. 

The session will also explore the influence and inclusion of character, folk, and national dance traditions within classical repertoire, with reference to works such as  Raymonda, Dances at a Gathering, Onegin, and The Firebird.

Exploring the Karsavina Syllabus: Technique, Style and Expression

Available for in-person attendees

Step into the artistry and technical clarity of the RAD Karsavina Syllabus in this engaging and insightful session. This session offers valuable insights for those teaching, studying, or working with the Karsavina Syllabus, providing tools to enrich classroom practice, refine performance quality, and inspire a more expressive and informed approach to classical dance.

The Art and Science of the Warm-up:  Translating Dance Science into Practice

Available for in-person attendees

This practical session explores the art and science behind an effective dance warmup, blending current research with embodied expertise. Participants will examine the physiological principles that underpin physical preparation, injury risk reduction, and enhanced performance potential, while engaging in movement tasks that translate evidence into clear, usable practice. The workshop aims to equip teachers and dancers with the knowledge and tools to design warmups that are applicable, adaptable, and aligned with safe and effective, evidence-informed, best practice. 

Syllabus Technique: Focus on Adage

Available for online attendees

This session will explore elements of adage and its pedagogy through the graded and vocational levels. You will gain insight into how to best support your students in their development of their physical, musical and artistic demonstration of adage.

Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures Workshop 

Session sponsor: Freed of London

Available for in-person and online attendees

A unique opportunity to work with leading New Adventures dance artists and explore movement from a Matthew Bourne production. The session will include learning choreography, creative tasks and provide an insight to New Adventures’ methodology and artistic approach.  

Safeguarding Your Students and Yourself

Available for in-person attendees

Safeguarding isn’t just about protecting the student; it is about protecting everyone, which includes you, from misunderstanding, false allegations, and liability. A safe student learns faster, and a safe teacher lasts longer. Topics include: 

• Boundaries and Tick boxes: Going beyond compliance. 
• Constructive vs. Destructive language. 
• Misinterpreted past: The safeguarding resistance. 

Syllabus Technique: Focus on Ports De Bras

Available for in-person attendees

This session will explore elements of port de bras and its pedagogy through the graded and vocational levels. You will gain insight into how to best support your students in their development of their physical, musical and artistic demonstration of port de bras. 

Seated Swans Workshop  

Available for online attendees 

This session will introduce the RAD’s Seated Swans resources. Whether you are a Silver Swans® Licensee or you are interested in learning more about chair-based dance, this session will give you examples of appropriate exercises which can be adapted and made relevant for your individual learners. 

Musical Theatre: Putting it Together

Available for in-person and online attendees

We sing… we dance… we act… now we must do it all at the same time!  Dr Nathan James will guide you through a rehearsal process of showing you how we can build on integrating the technical skills into one complete performance. 

Lesson Plan Lab 

Available for in-person attendees 

This interactive session brings dance teachers together to explore effective approaches to lesson planning and class creation. Combining expert guidance with peer discussion, the session is designed to support teachers in developing engaging, purposeful, and adaptable dance lessons. Whether you are looking for fresh inspiration, practical structure, or the opportunity to learn from fellow educators, this collaborative session offers a supportive space to reflect, share, and strengthen your teaching practice.