Welcome to our first digital edition!
This issue marks an exciting new chapter as we move from print to a dynamic digital format. We invite you to discover new interactive features and a fresh way to experience our stories. Inside, we celebrate our members, showcase the rich diversity of dance genres, and highlight the inspiring work of our global teaching community. From classical to contemporary, this edition honours the creativity, versatility, and impact of ISTD members around the world. We hope you enjoy exploring it!
Ginny Brown
Chief Executive
Contents
Growth spurts bring big physical and emotional changes – just as training intensifies. Learn how to support young dancers through shifts in strength, coordination, and confidence with smart nutrition and training strategies.
ISTD members share their experiences and top tips for participating in Angela Rippon's national campaign to get the nation dancing again in 2026.
A preview of the ISTD events you and your students can participate in as part of your member benefits, with some exciting changes planned.
Performance Awards
The ISTD is launching something truly exciting: Performance Awards, a brand-new type of examination that puts expression, individuality, and confidence centre stage.
Performance Awards
The ISTD is launching something truly exciting: Performance Awards, a brand-new type of examination that puts expression, individuality, and confidence centre stage.
Exams provide a structured pathway for students to grow. To explore how ISTD exams shape careers, we spoke to Theatre and Dancesport industry experts Shirley Ballas, Matt Cole, and Leanne Kirkham.
In this candid interview, Alessandra Bushnell shares practical advice for ISTD teachers who find themselves running a school – whether through inheritance or acquisition – and how to honour a legacy while forging your own path.
Nkosinathi Mazwai speaks candidly about his path into dance. From choreographing The Addams Family in South Africa to performing in Chicago, Nkosinathi's journey is a testament to the power of ISTD training.
Why teaching preschool dance matters – and how to do it well
Fiona Ramasami, an ISTD teacher for 21 years, shares her top strategies for planning and delivering magical preschool dance classes.
When Martin Gould began Ballroom and Latin dance as a hobby at age 50, he never imagined it would become a lifeline – not just for himself, but for others navigating grief and depression.
ISTD teacher and Street Dance advocate Vicki Stavrinos shares how Bam Bam Boogies and Project:ME are transforming young lives – and why Street Dance belongs in every teacher’s toolkit.
Care to Dance
Why trauma-informed teaching matters in every ISTD studio. Whether you're working with care-experienced dancers or simply want to create a more inclusive studio, this approach helps build trust, confidence and belonging. In this interview, social worker and dance practitioner Beth Vecchione shares how small changes in tone, language and attitude can make a big impact.
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