Royal Academy of Dance

Today the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and Rambert Grades announce the expansion of their collaboration globally. Together they introduce an opportunity to dance students and teachers across the world with Rambert Grades, a progressive and inclusive contemporary dance syllabus created by two of the world’s leading contemporary dance organisations: Rambert School and Rambert (dance company). This expanded collaboration unites two world-leading dance education and training organisations which are committed to providing excellence in teaching practice and widening access to dance. After a successful pilot launch in Australia last year, which brought the rigor of Rambert Grades training to RAD Registered Teachers and dancers across the country, RAD and Rambert Grades’ collaboration will now be rolled out globally. This will mean RAD members and RAD Registered Teachers around the world will be able to join Rambert Grades, learn the syllabus and teach it to students at their schools, enabling them to take Rambert Grades exams in creative contemporary dance. The collaboration enables RAD Registered Teachers to secure a 40% discount on individual Rambert Grades membership, whilst RAD Members can receive a 20% discount on Rambert Grades membership. Those who join may undertake Syllabus Training from September 2023, with online courses offered for time zones across the globe. Delivered in an online learning environment, Rambert Grades offers training for two syllabi across 4 levels and 8 qualifications (Creative Movers up to Grade 8). RAD teachers can then enter students for online Rambert Grades exams. Tim Arthur, RAD Chief Executive said: “I am thrilled to announce that our collaboration with Rambert Grades is going global. The RAD has a longstanding, historic relationship with Rambert, sharing the same, powerful belief that everybody can dance. On behalf of the RAD, I look forward to expanding on our collaboration to deliver dance training to communities across the world.” Shelley Yacopetti, Interim National Director of RAD Australia said: “We are so thrilled to hear the news that the RAD and Rambert Grades partnership is now global and we’re proud of the groundwork laid in Australia during the pilot period. Australian members have strongly embraced this innovative and inclusive syllabus and have reported on the positive impact the training is having on students’ confidence and creativity across all their dance classes.” Amanda Britton, Joint CEO of Rambert Grades and Chief Executive, Principal and Artistic Director of Rambert School said: “Both founded over a century ago, the Royal Academy of Dance and Rambert School share a heritage of progressive and innovative dance education. As an inclusive offering for dancers of all backgrounds, Rambert Grades celebrates the individuality and creativity of every student and technical training grounded in professional practice. We are proud to join forces with the Royal Academy of Dance as the leading providers of ballet education in schools across the world to bring dancers and teachers our accredited contemporary dance syllabus.” Benoit Swan Pouffer, Artistic Director of Rambert (dance company) said: “Rambert Grades believes in training to empower. This collaboration with the Royal Academy of Dance is an opportunity to provide contemporary dance training which recognises every dancer’s individuality and champions it. Teachers who deliver the Rambert Grades syllabus are encouraging young people to discover how the power of dance can change their lives. We’re excited for young dancers across the globe to experience the syllabus and learn choreography from celebrated international artists such as Hofesh Shechter.” Created in a landmark collaborative partnership between Rambert (dance company) and Rambert School, Rambert Grades is a progressive and inclusive contemporary dance syllabus. The syllabus was developed by a team of industry experts with additional solo material created by internationally renowned choreographers Hofesh Shechter OBE, Alesandra Seutin and Benoit Swan Pouffer. Training is accessible to all ages, abilities and bodies regardless of prior experience of formal dance training. Across four levels and eleven qualifications (Creative Movers to Grade 8), Rambert Grades teachers are taught to promote a safe environment for students to develop lifelong skills. Learn more and become a Rambert Grades member here: https://www.rambertgrades.com September/October 2023 Syllabus Training (UK, Europe, India, China, Japan, Australia, some parts of Canada and the USA time zones). Full Schedule available here: https://www.rambertgrades.com/upcoming-training-main

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is delighted to announce its annual flagship event The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition (The Fonteyn) comes to London from 22-29 October 2023, marking the first live, in-person The Fonteyn competition since the pandemic. The Fonteyn (previously known as The Genée) is one of the oldest and most prestigious ballet competitions in the world, representing the pinnacle of achievement for young dancers trained in the RAD syllabus. Beginning in 1931, the competition has toured the globe and is dedicated to promoting dance, providing educational experiences and recognising excellence in young ballet dancers internationally. A launchpad for a professional career, The Fonteyn offers aspiring dancers the unique opportunity to work with world-renowned choreographers and professionals, as well as the chance to perform on an international stage. Over 80 dancers will participate in this year’s week-long competition, which will take place in London. Coaching sessions delivered by renowned professionals begin the week, with the semi-finals held on 25-27 October at RAD’s stunning Aud Jebson Studio Theatre in its London HQ. His Majesty’s Theatre will host the unmissable grand final on 29th October. All candidates will perform a newly choreographed piece created by The Fonteyn’s Guest Choreographer Valentino Zucchetti, First Soloist with The Royal Ballet. The finalists will take to the historic His Majesty’s stage to each perform their Dancer’s Own variation and their chosen Classical Repertoire variation in front of a judging panel comprising Dame Darcey Bussell, Aaron Watkin Artistic Director of English National Ballet and Amanda Britton, Chief Executive, Principal and Artistic Director of Rambert School. Finalists will compete for a chance to win the coveted Gold, Silver and Bronze medals and for the Dame Margot Fonteyn Audience Choice Award. A Choreographic Award is available to all candidates who have choreographed their own Dancer’s Own variation and will be selected at the semi-final. In addition to the medals and cash prizes – and for the first time – all candidates will have the opportunity to be considered for a variety of tuition scholarship opportunities from renowned dance schools across the globe. A key event in the global dance industry calendar, The Fonteyn 2023 will be a dazzling event for dance, arts and culture lovers and enthusiasts alike, with audience members coming together across the week to experience the joy and wonder of dance. Lynn Wallis Producer of The Fonteyn 2023 and Artistic Director of RAD from 1994-2016 says: “On behalf of the Royal Academy of Dance, I am delighted that The Fonteyn is coming to London this October and cannot wait to welcome dancers from around the world to this magical competition. The Fonteyn is more than just a competition; it is a chance for young dancers to develop their dance practice, receive expert coaching, share a unique experience with their peers and make new friends. I am sure it will be a moment in their lives they will always remember.” Dame Darcey Bussell, President of the RAD and a judge at this year’s competition says: “I am truly looking forward to seeing dancers from around the globe take to the stage to perform in this prestigious competition. Audiences – prepare to witness some of the best, upcoming talent in ballet when you come to The Fonteyn semi-finals and finals. It’ll be a wonderful event.” Darrion Sellman previous Gold medalist and Prix De Lausanne dancer at the Royal Ballet says: "The Fonteyn was an invaluable experience which allowed me to grow as a dancer and artist. Winning the gold medal opened doors I never thought were possible, and granted me the opportunity to progress as a professional dancer." Many past winners of the Genée and The Fonteyn have become professional dancers with companies worldwide. For many, their careers have been long and varied as directors, artistic directors, ballet masters, teachers, administrators, dance critics, choreographers, TV producers, and directors. During the competition week from 22-29 October, numerous wraparound events will be taking place at the RAD for visitors, RAD teachers and dance lovers including: - The Fonteyn: Insights event with Dame Darcey Bussell on 23 October 7-8pm. Ideal for all dance enthusiasts, this will be an inspiring talk by Dame Darcey Bussell with Aaron Watkin, Artistic Director of the English National Ballet. - The Fonteyn: Creative Spaces from 23-27 October, a week-long course designed for dancers studying the RAD Intermediate, Adv Foundation, Adv 1 or Adv 2 syllabi. - (Re) Discovering the Karsavina Syllabus CPD Workshops on 23 October for RAD teachers. - The Bedells Bursary – Join the audience on 29 October for a show celebrating the talents of young ballet dancers. To find out more about The Fonteyn and to secure your place at the final and semi-final events visit: https://www.thefonteyn.org/tickets WATCH this interview with Royal Ballet Principal Steven McRae, who talks about his time at the competition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q58TTJHyyz0 TICKET INFORMATION The Fonteyn semi-finals Date: 25-27 October Location: Royal Academy of Dance 188 York Road London SW11 3JZ Price: Single day ticket £23 per day. Three-day ticket £63 Booking link: https://www.thefonteyn.org/tickets Only one ticket per day can be purchased at a time. Seating is unreserved. The Fonteyn final Date: 29 October Location: His Majesty’s Theatre, Haymarket, St. James's, London SW1Y 4QL Price: £15-£75 Booking link: https://lwtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/international-ballet-competition-2023/

As part of the Royal Academy of Dance's (RAD) community event, The Magic of Dance, on Sunday 18 June, the RAD is holding four brilliant dance workshops for children aged 3-14 years. These workshops, which are open to beginners, run from 10:30am until 12:45pm - where afterwards the whole family can take part in some arts and crafts! The RAD's The Magic of Dance is part of Wandsworth Arts Fringe. Wandsworth Arts Fringe bursts into life for 17 brilliant days each June, shaking up South West London with an eclectic programme of arts & culture that thrills, moves and inspires audiences from across the city. More details about the sessions below. Book the workshops here: Royal Academy of Dance (wandsworthfringe.com) 10.30-11.30 South Asian Classical Dance workshop SESSION 1: Suitable for academic school years 3-5 / young people aged 7-10 years 11.45-12.45 South Asian Classical Dance workshop SESSION 2: Suitable for academic school years 6-8 / young people age 11-14 years Each workshop has a £4 entry fee. Register via the Wandsworth Arts Fringe box office in advance by clicking the link above, or pay on the door at the RAD, subject to availability. 10.30-11.30 Ballet workshop SESSION 1: Suitable for academic school years reception – year 2 / children age 4-7 years 11.45-12.45 Ballet workshop SESSION 2: Suitable for academic school years 3-5 / children and young people age 8-11 years Each workshop has a £4 entry fee. Register via the Wandsworth Arts Fringe box office in advance by clicking the link above, or pay on the door at the RAD, subject to availability. For more information about The Magic of Dance visit here.

@Peanut68Yes, it is not mandatory to book an exam at the end of the Summer Intensive Examination Syllabus Week. Students attending this course must have thorough knowledge of the syllabus.

@EverHopeful Yes, this course is open to those 11+ including adults

Dance education and training organisation the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is delighted to announce the launch of Céline Gittens’ Introduction to Dance Scholarship 2023 sponsored by Gallagher. The scholarship has been designed specifically for RAD Registered Teachers to introduce and engage students in their community to the world of dance, opening up tuition to those who would otherwise not have the means to enrol in classes and find their passion for dance. Alongside the scholarship, the RAD and Birmingham Royal Ballet principal and RAD ambassador Céline Gittens have created two online masterclasses for RAD dance teachers, to inspire young students with choreography inspired by professional ballet productions. The masterclasses explore the repertoire from Sir Peter Wright’s Swan Lake Act 1 Prince Solo, and Act 2 Swans and are available to view online for free. Those who want to watch the masterclasses can make a donation, which will go directly towards the scholarship fund. Access to the online masterclasses and the donation fund ends on 30 June 2023. Tim Arthur Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Dance says, “On behalf of the RAD, I am delighted to be offering this brilliant dance scholarship, which has been kindly sponsored by Gallagher. At the RAD we believe that everyone should have the chance to dance. This scholarship exemplifies our mission and belief, enabling a RAD Registered Teacher to give young students the opportunity to discover the wonders this art form brings.” Céline Gittens says, “As the Royal Academy of Dance’s International Ambassador, I was keen to address the concern of access to dance, which was raised by many teachers. One year later, I am delighted to announce the launch of the Introduction to Dance Scholarship, which aims to assist Royal Academy of Dance teachers in introducing and supporting new dancers to this wonderful art form.” To view the masterclasses and to make a donation by 30 June, visit: https://justgiving.com/campaign/radcelinegittensscholarship

The Royal Academy of Dance is pleased to announce a whole host of summer schools and classes designed for adults and young people. Develop your dancing skills, improve your fitness and meet new people at one of our brilliant programmes taking place between July and August 2023. Here is a full list of the events on offer, each with links to find out more and book your place. Adult Ballet and Pilates Summer Course This summer, enjoy five evenings of classes in ballet technique and Pilates. Suitable for dancers aged 18+. Get ready to curate your own dance program this summer with the Adult Ballet and Pilates Summer Course. Choose from three levels of classical ballet classes that cater to your experience and take your technique to the next level. You will build upon your knowledge and understanding as the week progresses, with expert coaching from our experienced teachers. You can also combine your ballet technique class with a Pilates class, or take Pilates as a standalone class. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/adult-ballet-and-pilates-summer-course-2023-london/ Elite Syncopations Adult Repertoire Workshop Join us for this workshop inspired by Scott Joplin’s composition, Elite Syncopations. Suitable for dancers aged 18+. Led by the renowned Damien Lee Stirk, this workshop features live piano accompaniment and offers two different levels to choose from. Join us for an unforgettable experience and delve into the intricacies of Scott Joplin’s composition, Elite Syncopations, through the art of performance. Don’t miss out and secure your spot today. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/elite-syncopations-adult-repertoire-workshop-london/ Silver Swans Focus on Classical Experience daily classes in ballet technique and repertoire in a programme designed for those aged 55+. Over five days, you'll have the opportunity to refine your skills and deepen your understanding of classical ballet and repertoire. With expert guidance from experienced teachers, you'll progress steadily towards an informal studio sharing on the final day of the course, where you can showcase the repertoire learnt across the week to friends and family. With places still available in Level 1, don't miss the chance to elevate your ballet technique this summer. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/silver-swans-focus-on-classical/ Silver Swans Summer School Experience an immersive week of dance and movement for those aged 55+. Includes a West End theatre trip and the chance to perform. We still have places in Level 1 for our brand new Silver Swans Summer School! Immerse yourself in the grace and beauty of ballet technique, repertoire, and Pilates classes, alongside fun-filled Move to the Musicals workshops throughout the week. With the opportunity to perform for your loved ones in the Aud Jebsen Studio Theatre, this summer school promises to be a memorable and enriching experience. To top it all off, you'll attend a West End matinee performance of Mamma Mia, making for a perfect ending to your week! Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/silver-swans-summer-school-2023/ Adult Contemporary Dance and Yoga Summer Course in partnership with The Place This week-long series of two-hour sessions is open to any level and ability. Delivered by expert practitioner and experienced dance artist, Jenny Hayes, and featuring live musical accompaniment, you can expect a playful fusion of contemporary dance technique and yoga, building on sequences each evening so that you finish the week with a greater understanding of your body and both movement forms. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/adult-contemporary-dance-and-yoga-summer-course-in-partnership-with-the-place-london/ Senior Summer School Book now to experience ballet, repertoire, musical theatre, contemporary techniques, performance opportunities and a theatre trip. Suitable for dancers studying Intermediate and above or equivalent. This intensive week-long program is tailored for dancers studying Intermediate and above or equivalent. You will experience a range of dance styles, visit Sadler’s Wells theatre to watch Romeo and Juliet performed by Matthew Bourne’s company, meet top professionals in the industry and have a chance to perform to friends and family on the last day of the course. The Senior Summer School is a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, meet like-minded dancers, and experience training from world-renowned teachers and professionals. Join us this summer for a transformative dance experience. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/senior-summer-school-2023-london/ Adult Sleeping Beauty Repertoire Weekend Intensive An intensive weekend exploring the technical and dramatic challenges of performing Sleeping Beauty. Suitable for dancers aged 18+. Over two days, experience the technical and dramatic challenges required to bring this beloved classical ballet to life. On the last day, showcase your newfound skills and invite your loved ones to an informal sharing of the repertoire. Delivered by expert teachers, this immersive weekend promises to transport you to a world of grace, elegance, and enchantment, as you delve into the intricacies of the Sleeping Beauty repertoire. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/sleeping-beauty-adult-repertoire-intensive-london/ Summer Intensive Examination Syllabus and Pilates Course Join us for expert RAD Vocational Graded Syllabus coaching and combine with an option Pilates class. This week-long intensive programme is designed for dancers aged 11 and above who are currently studying the RAD Vocational Graded syllabus. Our experienced tutors will provide expert coaching to help you perfect your technique and prepare you for your examination. You can combine your syllabi class with a Pilates class to enhance your strength and precision, or take Pilates as a standalone class. Link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/event/summer-intensive-examination-syllabus-course-2023-london/