RAD Members’ Day 2025

“An American in Paris” workshop with James Butcher

Kindly supported by Just Ballet, join James Butcher for an exclusive masterclass as he dives into the stunning choreography inspired by the iconic 1951 Gene Kelly film and the hit West End musical. This session will explore the elegant, jazz-infused ballet that brings Gershwin’s breathtaking score to life. 

Character dance workshop with Justine Berry

Explore the Hungarian Court style in a workshop with Justine Berry with a focus on barre work. Dancing in this class will encourage successful technical, artistic and stylistic accomplishments of the Hungarian Court style.

Adventure Awaits: Creative teaching for early years

Join Marsha George for a workshop of wonder, awe and creativity for teaching early years development. A workshop designed to engage and encourage our youngest dancers and allow RAD teachers working with children aged 18 months to 5 years to develop fresh ideas and creative skills.

Barre for Feet, Hips, Legs, Posture, Balance, and Happy Sciatic Nerves

In this session, Wendy Jardine will take you through various moves at the barre; flowing from one move to another with breath and connection. By the end of the session, you will have mobilised every joint and opened out through the breadth and length of your body. 

Decoding Dance: Unlocking the Power of BMN in the RAD Syllabus with James Groom and Melanie Simpkin

In this interactive workshop, we’ll delve into the basics of BMN theory and explore how to seamlessly integrate it with the RAD syllabi. Learn how to effortlessly pinpoint details like head lines, movement timing, arm pathways, and directions.

The RAD’s creative syllabus in development: A practical exploration

Join Alexander Campbell for this practical session to explore a potential new offering currently in development at the Royal Academy of Dance, the Creative Training Syllabus in Ballet.

Exploring the future: The proposed RAD Musical Theatre syllabus presented by Alexander Campbell

Join us as we introduce the concept of the proposed Royal Academy of Dance Musical Theatre syllabus. Learn more about the structure and content of this potential new offering presented by Alexander Campbell.

An inclusive approach to supporting dancers in class, with RADiate Artistic Development Officer Vicki Busfield

Behind every dancer is a passionate teacher who went that extra mile to support them on their journey, and this session will focus on considerations to support students with different needs, keeping inclusivity and accessibility at the forefront. 

Creating a strong and healthy body for the dancer with dance physiotherapist Sally Harrison 

What is required to create a robust body, to enjoy what we do, and to feel confident and effortless in our movement? How can we work to minimise the risk of potential injury? From rest and recovery, through to power training, what should we be aware of? 

Cinderella coaching observation with Birmingham Royal Ballet

Kindly supported by Freed of London, witness Lachlan Monaghan (Principal) coaching Alisa Garkavenko (BRB2) in Sir David Bintley’s Cinderella “Winter” solo.

Accompanied by pianist Andrew Kristy.

Teaching Silver Swans: A Journey with Musical Theatre with Marsha George

This workshop will focus on creating a lesson that is gentle yet dynamic. The session will provide RAD teachers with an understanding of how to bring out the strength of performance in their Silver Swan students. 

Supporting Dancers’ Wellbeing: Trauma Informed Approaches with Dr. Jo Read

In this session, we will explore the core principles of trauma-informed practice and how they can be applied in various dance settings to create “safe enough” spaces for dancers to thrive. You’ll leave equipped to integrate trauma-informed principles into your work, supporting the well-being of those you engage with. 

Navigating AI in the arts: Challenges, opportunities, and innovative practices to enhance your daily work with Jocelyn Burnham

Join Jocelyn Burnham, a leading AI consultant for the culture sector for a workshop that encourages critical thinking, self-learning, and a hype-free approach to discussing how AI – if we choose to implement it – could align with our individual values and ethics.

RAD Awards 

Join us for a ceremony of celebration and recognition as we gather for the RAD Awards ceremony. This special event is dedicated to honouring individuals who have made significant and sustained contributions to dance.

Pointe shoe making demonstration with Freed of London

Sessions at 1:00-1:40pm and 3:25-3:45pm.

For 40 years, Freed of London has proudly collaborated with the Royal Academy of Dance, crafting garments which embody elegance, quality and performance