4 March 2022 09:00

Steven McRae appointed Ambassador of the Royal Academy of Dance

This new role created by the RAD, will see us work with Steven McRae to highlight the positive role a good teacher can play in a dancer’s life and career, offer a dancer’s insight on how dance teachers can best support and motivate their students, and open up worldwide discussions and debates about the teaching of dance.

Steven McRae in Romeo & Juliet. Photo Bill Cooper, ROH.

Steven will speak with RAD teachers from across the globe through interviews and forums, with hopes to inspire them and nurture them at all levels of their careers. He will provide insights into the RAD’s Artistic Department, and discuss with dancers and students the value of good training and how to achieve it. By having greater awareness of this all-important area of the our work, we hope that teachers will feel a greater connection to their part in the dancing world.

RAD members can watch an exclusive video conversation between Steven and his RAD ballet teacher, Hilary Kaplan, on the importance of good dance teaching.

The RAD is recognising Steven’s progression through RAD training to achieve such a high level of professional acclaim as a dancer, as well his passion and understanding of quality dance teaching. This is reinforced by his recognition of the strong foundation he received through learning the RAD syllabus. As a parent of young children, Steven also has an awareness of what young children need in order to succeed and enjoy dance, whether as a recreational pursuit or as a career.

Steven McRae said: ‘As an Ambassador, I hope to shine a light on the importance of great teaching, and the responsibility we all have in nurturing the next generation of dancers in a way that not only creates great artists but empowers people to contribute to the wonderful world of dance through a healthier and more holistic approach.’

Gerard Charles, RAD Artistic Director said: ‘Quality teaching is at the heart of who we are and so I am very pleased that a successful dancer of Steven’s stature would take on this role. His passion and personal experience of good training make him an ideal ambassador to draw attention to this most important aspect of our work.’

The RAD plans to appoint a roster of high-profile Ambassadors over the coming months, in order to help us further remain at the forefront of dance education. These appointments come as we move to a new global headquarters in Battersea, launching in Spring 2022. The new building will become an international home of dance, allowing the RAD to expand on its 100-year history of high-quality dance education to bring the transformational power of dance to more people, regardless of age, ability, or location.