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Summer success at the RAD in London
Our 2025 summer programme was filled with energy, creativity, and international flair as we welcomed dancers of all ages and levels to the Royal Academy of Dance global headquarters in London! July began with a vibrant selection of adult courses that brought our studios to life: These offerings gave adult learners the chance to develop…
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Royal Academy of Dance opens its doors for Open House Festival 2025
On 14 September, the RAD will open its headquarters in Wandsworth for the Open House Festival 2025, the annual celebration of London’s architecture and neighbourhoods. Designed by Takero Shimakazi Architects (t-sa) and officially opened in 2022 by the RAD’s Patron, Queen Camilla, visitors will be able to experience the RAD’s stunning headquarters, which features the…
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Derek Purnell RIP
We are deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of Derek Purnell. A graduate of The Royal Ballet School and Soloist for Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet, he later served as Chair of the Artistic and Examinations subcommittee and as Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees at the RAD. Birmingham Royal Ballet and Strawberry Hill…
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History and legacy of Phyllis Bedells
Phyllis Bedells (1893–1985) was a pioneering British ballerina and a foundational figure in the development of classical ballet in the UK. Born in Knowle, Bristol, she trained with renowned teachers including Enrico Cecchetti and Anna Pavlova. In 1914, she became the first British prima ballerina at the London Empire Theatre. Beyond her performance career, Bedells…
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RADiate summer sharing
At the Royal Academy of Dance, we recently hosted a summer sharing at our headquarters in Wandsworth, London. The sharing took place in our Aud Jebsen Studio Theatre, with school students showcasing the skills they have learnt on the RADiate programme during the academic year, which enables children with additional learning needs and disabilities to…
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Silver Swans on the BBC
A segment on the BBC’s Morning Live programme last week showcased the physical, mental and cognitive benefits of dance, in particular Silver Swans classes. These are specially designed ballet sessions, aimed at over-55s, to help improve mobility, posture, and co-ordination, and boost energy levels, and the programme featured a class run by Laura Jakes in Leeds. Jackie,…
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Are you ready for your RAD Debut?
Calling all young people aged 11–13 in Wandsworth. Have you never taken a dance class before, or maybe you have, and it’s been a while? Well, now is your chance to step into the spotlight with the Royal Academy of Dance! Join us from 11–15 August for an exciting free week of dance. As part…
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The RAD at London Pride 2025
The Pride parade in London this past weekend featured 16 walkers representing the RAD. There was a great mix of staff, freelancers, supporters, RAD members, and dance teachers. We represented, we celebrated, we united, and, of course, we danced with ribbons which we twirled all along the route – it was so joyful! We were…
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South African examiner, Sheila Stirling FRAD, passes away
Sheila Stirling (Mrs Dove) was a Life Member of the Royal Academy of Dance. She held membership with the organisation since 1949. Her dance training in the RAD method took her through all levels to the Solo Seal award. She was appointed to the RAD board of examiners in 1960 and examined extensively for over…
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Young people from London perform at Step Live 2025
Yesterday (Tuesday 1 July) over 300 school students from secondary and SEND schools across Greater London took part in Step Live 2025, one of the biggest annual dance events specifically for secondary school students in the UK. Young people took to the Cadogan Hall stage to perform a variety of dynamic dance routines that they have…