23 February 2026
Graduates travelled from around the world, from Japan to Greece, representing both theatre and dancesport genres and a wide spectrum of teaching pathways across the Society. We were delighted to welcome over 500 people together to mark the occasion.
This year’s honourees achieved qualifications spanning the Society’s professional framework, reflecting their dedication, resilience, and commitment to raising standards in dance education:
- Associate
- Associate Diploma
- Diploma in Teaching Community Dance (DTCD)
- Diploma in Dance Education (DDE)
- Licentiate
- Fellowship
- Diploma in Dance Pedagogy (DDP)
We were honoured to welcome ISTD Vice President Shobana Jeyasingh to the ceremony.
It was a pleasure to have such a respected industry professional present awards and personally wish our graduates success.
“To those of us who love dance and the demands it makes of the body and the brain and the joy it gives, a good dance teacher is a gift from the gods.
The regular teacher informs, the good teacher explains, the superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.”- Shobana Jeyasingh, Keynote Speech
2023 Award Presentations
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of this year’s distinguished awards by Michael Elliott:
- 2023 UK Imperial Dancesport Award – Malcolm Hill-Close
- 2023 UK Imperial Theatre Award – Tereza Theodoulou
- 2023 International Imperial Theatre Award – Tracey Warner
- Sue Passmore Award – Ayomi Tsalu
Each recipient was recognised for their outstanding contribution and commitment within their field, reinforcing the strength and breadth of our global teaching community.
What attendees had to say
“It was such an honour to be the UK’s first Kathak dancer to graduate in the DDE. I felt so proud, it was a memorable day and I will cherish the photos.”
- Nikita Thakar
“A wonderful celebration of hard work by everyone involved… I am a proud member even more so after a day like today.”
- Gemma Siamantas
“It was a glorious day, so great to see the event so well attended, and to catch up with everyone!”
- Sadie Morgan
“Watching all the graduates receive their awards gave such a positive outlook for the ISTD’s future teaching community.”
- International Imperial Theatre Award winner, Tracey Warner
"The day was absolutely fantastic... The day will hold a very special place in mine and my family's heart."
-Vikki Flynn
As part of the ISTD community, you are now woven into a global network of educators committed to artistry, integrity, and excellence. Whether you’re continuing your teaching journey, progressing to higher qualifications, or looking to inspire in new settings, ISTD is here to support you every step of the way.
If you haven’t yet become a Full Member of the ISTD, now is the perfect time to take that next step. Membership gives you access to specialist resources, Continuing Professional Development, guidance, community support, and opportunities to grow throughout your teaching career. By joining, you also connect with a network of peers and mentors who can help guide your progression, from teaching in new contexts to training as an examiner.
Shobana Jeyasingh Dance company is currently preparing for their upcoming production We Caliban, an inventive, sideways look at Shakespeare’s The Tempest, which will be performed at Hall for Cornwall on 13 March 2026 and Sadler’s Wells East from 21–23 April 2026. You can book tickets via their website.
