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 was instrumental in shaping ballet education; in 1920, she co-founded the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and contributed to its first syllabus.
After retiring from the stage in 1935, she dedicated herself to teaching and examining, influencing generations of dancers.
In recognition of her contributions, the RAD established The Bedells Bursary (previously named Phyllis Bedells) in 1979. This annual competition supports young dancers under 17 who have achieved Distinction in the RAD Advanced 1 Examination. The Bursary offers a performance opportunity, as a stepping stone towards The Fonteyn. Awards for musicality and choreography are presented, encouraging creativity and excellence in young dancers.
Phyllis Bedells’s legacy endures through this bursary, reflecting her lifelong commitment to nurturing talent and advancing ballet education.
Other inspiring and pioneering women in the RAD’s history include Margot Fonteyn, a fellow co-founder of the RAD, and Darcey Bussell. Read more about the most influential female dancers here.
