Online resources

The RAD’s early history – as the Association of Teachers of Operatic Dancing of Great Britain – was documented in the Dancing Times magazine.

This included the publication of the first Elementary Operative Syllabus, the Intermediate Examination Syllabus, and the first section of the Advanced Syllabus.

In 1930 the Operatic Association Gazette was published and the ensuing run, available in the library, provides a comprehensive outline of the RAD’s development to the present day. The First 75 Years of the Royal Academy of Dance were summarized in an anniversary brochure by Derek Parker, published in 1995.

Library resources

In 1977, the RAD translated and published a rare pamphlet which was written by August Bournonville in 1828, when he was just 23 years old. A limited edition at the time, the New Year’s Gift for Dance Lovers reveals much about Bournonville’s ideals, beliefs and technical knowledge.

Photographs

Photos from the GBL Wilson archive and other photographs related to the Royal Academy of Dance are available for viewing on the Arenapal website.