Winners of the RAD Awards 2026
The RAD is proud to announce the winners of the RAD Awards 2026. The awards celebrate global excellence, lasting impact and sustained contributions to dance and dance education.
The awards honoured dance teachers and professionals across the world for their commitment to and excellence in dance teaching. The judges were Yaël Owen, Shevelle Dynott MBE, Zoie Golding MBE, and the RAD’s Artistic Director, Alexander Campbell.
The winners:
- Community & Learner Impact Award – Ruth Shine (Ireland)
- Innovation & Creativity in Dance Education Award – Galatia Savva (Cyprus)
- Early Career-Emerging Teacher Award – Pia Muschaweckh (Germany)
- Mentorship & Advocacy Award – Anne Desbruslais (UK). Honourable mention – Ann Coffey Tighe (Ireland)
- Wellbeing & Inclusion Champion Award – Emma McMahon (UK).
Special awards were also given to those who have made outstanding contributions to the RAD, dance teaching and the wider dance community:
- Anne Rowse (New Zealand) and Jane Pirani (Australia) were each awarded Fellowship of the RAD (FRAD), the highest honour that the RAD bestows upon its senior teaching members and prominent figures
- Imogen Knight (UK) was awarded the President’s Award, which celebrates individuals who make an outstanding contribution to the world of dance or give exceptional, long-standing service to the organisation and its mission
- Kendra Johnson (UK) was awarded Fellow of the Institute of Choreology, a prestigious honorary distinction awarded by the RAD to Benesh members who have made an exceptional contribution to Benesh Movement Notation.
Speaking of the news, Elizabeth Honer, Chief Executive of the RAD said: “My warmest congratulations to the winners of the RAD Awards 2026. All of those nominated, as well as the winners, embody our highest standards of dance teaching excellence and artistry, bringing such commitment and joy to their communities. As dance teachers and professionals, they are a true inspiration. Well done to you all.”
Photo: RAD Chief Executive Elizabeth Honer with RAD President Dame Darcey Bussell who presented the awards. They are joined by RAD Awards 2026 judges, from L-R: Yaël Owen, Shevelle Dynott MBE, Zoie Golding MBE and the RAD’s Artistic Director, Alexander Campbell.
