In 2024, we're celebrating 120 Years since the founding of the ISTD. Join us in taking a look back at some of the key points in our storied history, as we look forward to 120 years more.
On the 25 July, nearly 200 independent dance teachers came together at a meeting held at Hotel Cecil in London, forming the Society to represent classical ballet and ballroom styles of dance. A council of management was formed under the presidency of Robert Morris Crompton.
The first issue of the Dance Journal was published, which is still running today with Issue 500.
The first international Congress brought together 400 members from multiple associations, from UK, Europe and America, establishing ISTD as an international organisation.
And the organisation grows, separate branches were created within the Society; Operatic, General, Ballroom, Cecchetti, and Greek, to accommodate the expanding interest in dance as a pastime in the post-war period.
Dance Journal, which had been paused during WW1, recommenced publishing.
The name of the Society was changed to The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing.
Formation of the Stage Dance Branch. The first committee comprised Zelia Raye, Joan Davis, Italia Conti, Molly Suffield and Freddie Lord, with Jack Hulbert as Vice-President and Honorary Fellow.
Activities of the ISTD were naturally greatly reduced due to WWII. The Dance Journal was suspended but a quarterly bulletin was issued. Subscriptions were reduced and a smaller administrative council was appointed. Restricted examinations, Annual Congresses and General Meetings continued.
The Society became an Incorporated Body under special licence from The Board of Trade permitting it to omit the word ‘limited’ from its title. This licence granted to non-profit-making companies formed to promote Art, Science, Religion, or other similar objects and conveys a status second only to that granted by Royal Charter or by a Special Act of Parliament.
The Ballroom Branch Committee standardised the Technique of Ballroom Dancing and this was accepted by societies across the world.
A year of renaming: the Operatic Ballet Branch is renamed Classical Ballet Branch – Imperial Society Syllabus, whilst the Cecchetti Society Branch becomes Classical Ballet Branch – Cecchetti Method, paving the way for ISTD's dual ballet disciplines.
Disco/Freestyle/Rock 'n' Roll Branch is created
The branches are changed into the Faculties we know and love today!
South Asian Dance Faculty is created
Alternative Rhythms Faculty is created
Modern Theatre Dance Faculty divides and becomes Modern Theatre Dance and Tap Dance Faculties
We celebrate 120 Years of ISTD, with new uniforms, new syllabi and a digital transformation underway, amongst other celebrations!
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