Website
www.istd.org/classicalgreek

History
Founded by Ruby Ginner in 1923 as the Association of Teachers of the Revived Greek Dance, it became affiliated to the ISTD in 1951, combining with the ISTD Greek Branch.

Aims
This form of movement provides immense enjoyment and an opportunity for creativity. The student also acquires balance and control, relaxation, elevation, clarity of line, grace and ease of movement and the development of musical understanding. The more advanced work allows for a greater study of the visual arts, literature and mythology and develops the various different aspects of this work which includes not only lyrical dance but also athletic, pyrrhic, bacchic, choric, ritual and tragic, all of which can be applied to the world of today. It is undoubtedly one of the best methods of teaching stage movement and dramatic expression in dance form.

Syllabus
The training is set out in the syllabus of the Classical Greek Dance Association Faculty, beginning with graded tests for children, and continuing to examinations for students and teachers from Pre-Elementary to Fellowship. There are also medal tests awarded for performance to candidates over the age of eight years.

Activities
Every two years a Classical Greek Dance Festival is held for dancers ranging from children of seven years to students and adults. There are also awards for original choreography and improvisation. The Ruby Ginner Awards (for solo dancers) are held annually for all standards. Holiday courses and refresher courses are arranged each year.

The Daphne Hawkesworth Cup is awarded annually to someone who the Faculty committee feel has made an outstanding contribution to Classical Greek Dance.

Ruby Ginner MBE (1886-1978)
A pioneer of a freer movement in dance, Ruby Ginner's deep and continuous study of Ancient Greece was initiated by her introduction to the great Greek dramas. The necessity to develop her own form of dance movement came through her success when dancing in professional productions from 1904. In this she was later helped by Effie Williams, who added her anatomical expertise, Irene Mawer, with her knowledge of drama and mime, and Nancy Sherwood through her understanding of Greek Art and her outstanding ability to create technical movements.

The Value of Classical Greek Dance
"Classical Greek Dance, Ruby Ginner method, is a dance technique based on fundamental movement which is structured to encourage further creativity by both teacher and pupil. It is based on the aims and ideals of Ancient Greece, particularly the necessity for the balance and harmony of the body, mind and spirit. This is achieved through a carefully graded syllabus enhanced by the background knowledge of Ancient Greek civilisation and its myths and legends. Important links are also made with the sister arts of Music, Drama, Sculpture and Painting."

Dame Merle Park DBE,
Former Director Royal Ballet School, Patron

Syllabi
Click here for more information on Greek Dance syllabi.