9 June 2026
As we look forward to this year’s Janet Cram Finals, we take a moment to reflect on the rich history and unforgettable experiences that have made this competition such a special part of ISTD life. We spoke to Jackie Barnes and Cathy Stevens about their memories of Janet Cram through the years.
Dancer at Janet Cram 1996
“It became a highlight of our year…”
My relationship with the Janet Cram Awards began as a young teacher. Little did I know how my relationship with the competition would develop! We would attend Cecil Sharp House for the Finals each year and be amazed at the wonderful work on offer. It became a highlight of our year, and we progressed to entering some of our own pupils – many of whom won places in the Finals. I always felt that to have a ‘Cram Finalist’ was a real validation of the work that you were producing back in the sticks!
Scrolling forwards and, as a new examiner, we were encouraged to help at Events. I would enjoy sitting with the late Pat Ellis doing the music (CDs then!) for both the Janet Cram and the Star Tap Awards. It was a great job because you got a front row seat! I loved seeing other teachers and getting to know other Examiners on days like these.
The brilliant Sarah Wilson ran the Janet Cram Awards (flying solo) and she and Christina Ballard would so often teach wonderful classes which challenged the students both technically and artistically.
Scrolling further and I was honoured to have become a Modern Theatre Committee member. One morning before a meeting, Myra Tiffin and I met Sarah Wilson for coffee in Old Street and she gave us THE Janet Cram folder so that we could take over as organisers. It was to be my main Committee role for the next eleven years… Hard work, but also great fun and with so much assistance from Regional Organisers, Examiners and colleagues, who all gave freely of their time.
My overriding memories… will be those divine little Juniors starting the day off with their ‘walk round’, proud as punch to be representing their schools… There is nothing quite like a Janet Cram and its place in ISTD history.
— Cathy Stevens
Dancer at Janet Cram 2001
“I thought I would burst with excitement!”
As a student of Sue Stephens, I always looked forward to our annual coach trip to ‘the Janet Cram’. When I was actually chosen to take part, I thought I would burst with excitement!
I remember standing outside the double doors of Kennedy Hall at Cecil Sharp House… feeling excited but terrified… surrounded by examiners & teachers giving us encouragement… No-one got past Miss Hockaday or Miss Spriggs while someone was dancing!
I loved taking part in the infamous ‘Walk Round’. We lined up, waited for the music cue and then confidently strode into the hall… it was at this point it hit me! I was standing in front of the most highly respected ISTD Examiners… I took a deep breath and knew I’d be OK!
I remember Sarah Wilson running that Cram with her usual calm, professional efficiency. Christina Ballard frequently led classes. She told us of how Miss Joan Durrant started the competition and how important it was to continue her and Janet Cram’s legacy.
I felt privileged to be asked to help Cathy Stevens organise the event. Together, we saw huge changes to the competition. We celebrated the competition’s 50th Anniversary, we tried to reach more ISTD schools by having 5 regional heats… Nothing could ever be planned for any weekends in May, as we would always be at a Cram event somewhere!
The Finals were always a special day, but we tried to make it that little bit more special by changing the venue to an actual theatre.
Having handed over the baton, we were thrilled to see some of our International schools becoming more involved and taking the time and expense to travel to London for the finals.
I know I also speak for Cathy when I say how fondly we both remember our time running the Cram. Working alongside an army of fantastic ISTD Examiners and teachers was just fantastic. I sincerely hope everyone enjoys this year’s event, it is truly one of a kind!
— Jackie Barnes
Senior Winner Kristen Leigh Petit at Janet Cram 2022
