History of the RAD: The 1970s

1971

Pamela Richardson teaches a course in Rio de Janeiro for dance teachers. As a result, many of them became very important figures in the Brazilian dance scene.

Photo: An example of the Fellowship of the RAD award given to Phyllis Bedells in 1970. This is currently displayed at RAD headquarters.

1972

The Academy appointed a National Administrator for the United States, Elaine Keller. Ms Keller’s site for RAD business was located on the east coast. Once an official representative of the RAD was appointed, the RAD was truly on its way to establishing itself as a recognized and desired method of dance training in the United States.

1973

The Genée International Ballet Competition was revised in 1973, following the suspension of the Genée in 1972; the main reason was the revision of the nature of the Adeline Genée Gold Medal Award.

Genée International Ballet Competition, Medallists and Judges, 1973. Left to right: Anthony Dowell, Angailika MacArthur (Silver medal), Sheila Styles (Bronze medal), Phyllis Bedells, Jane Devine (Gold medal), Merle Park. Photo by Jennie Walton.

1974

The RAD moves to new headquarters in Battersea Square, officially opened by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1974.

Exterior Halls Granary. Photo by Jennie Walton.

1976

Professional Dancers’ Teaching Certificate was set up, which prompted the creation of the College of the Royal Academy of Dancing to deliver the three year Teachers’ Training course in 1976.

Staff and students 1977. Photo by Jennie Walton.

1977

First examinations held in Cyprus.

1979

The Phyllis Bedells Bursary is set up, named in honour of Miss Phyllis Bedells, Founder member and Vice President of the Academy. The bursary, of up to £1000, is given for further training in the Academy’s method, to help cultivate young dancers of exceptional promise.

Phyllis Bedells (seated) with candidates for the 1979 Phyllis Bedells Bursary Award. The winner was Laura Green (3rd from left) and the judges were Phyllis Bedells, Ronald Hynd and Ruth French. Photo by Jennie Walton.

Exams are held for the first time in Japan.