25 January 2024 07:39
RAD appoints new head of Benesh International
RAD are delighted to announce that Melanie Simpkin has been appointed Head of Benesh International.
Melanie Simpkin. Photo: Dan Gilbert.
Melanie began her ballet training in Cheshire before attending the Arts Educational School. From there, she studied Dance at the University of Surrey. Choosing to specialise in Benesh Movement Notation, Melanie graduated as a professional choreologist in 2010, since when she has been a freelance choreologist, notation tutor and examiner at Benesh International.
Her notation credits include The Tsarina’s Slippers (Alastair Marriott), Serenade (David Justin) and Medusa (Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui). Most recently, Melanie assisted in the restaging of Enigma Variations, The Sleeping Beauty, Coppélia and Swan Lake at the Royal Ballet in London. She was invited by the Royal Academy of Dance as a guest teacher to conduct a series of Benesh masterclasses throughout Mexico. She was also a guest speaker at the Benesh International BenMove Congress at the Conservatoire in Paris, and is excited now to be joining Benesh International permanently.
Melanie will be dividing her time between London and Austin, Texas – we are nothing if not International!
Find out more about Benesh International.