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Free theatre space for Wandsworth artists and community events
We moved into our purpose-built home in 2022 and this has given us a new space that we can share with our local community. We are currently developing and delivering a community programme aimed at engaging with the people of Wandsworth. Part of this means connecting with the vibrant arts and culture sector in the…
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Silver Swans On-Screen
In celebration of Silver Sunday, we are celebrating our international community of Silver Swans! Silver Swans from across the world feature in our new full-length film that spotlights the joy of the Silver Swans programme, and the magic that happens when we move together. Our new film features 30 short videos created by our Silver…
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How to run an online event: reaching your audience
At the Royal Academy of Dance, we know that crafting a successful event means thinking beyond the room you’re in. In part three of our series on how to run an event, we explore how to broaden your reach and build experiences through online and hybrid formats. As the event landscape evolves, blending in-person experiences…
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Max McIlvenny wins Robin Windsor Dance Award 2025
Today, Royal Academy of Dance and mental health charity SANE announce that Max McIlvenny has received the inaugural Robin Windsor Dance Award. The award, made in partnership between RAD and SANE, recognises individuals who have utilised dance to overcome adversity and improve mental wellbeing. The Robin Windsor Dance Award was created to honour the late…
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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…
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Royal Academy of Dance celebrates 2025 graduates at Cadogan Hall
The Royal Academy of Dance held its annual Faculty of Education graduation ceremony on 8th September at Cadogan Hall in London, honouring the achievements of its international student body. The event featured an address from RAD Chief Executive Elizabeth Honer CB, and Artistic Director, Alexander Campbell introducing the guest speaker, Iain Mackay, Artistic Director of…
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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…