3 December 2025
Participant experience
From the moment dancers arrived, the atmosphere was one of excitement and possibility.
“My daughter enjoyed all the workshops… genuinely one of the best workshops she has ever attended in terms of content and value for money.”
Across the day, participants explored a range of styles. What stood out repeatedly was the calibre of teaching:
“The teachers were exceptional. Thank you everyone who made this happen. We were so impressed by the quality, experience and variety of the teachers.
World class faculty that brought the day to life
The workshops were led by an impressive team of industry professionals whose expertise shaped the unforgettable experiences reflected in the feedback.
- Antony Van Laast CBE – Internationally acclaimed choreographer behind Mamma Mia!, Beauty and the Beast, and Tina – The Musical and also ISTD Vice President. His closing Q&A was described as “highly inspirational” and a highlight of the day.
- Lukas Hunt – A dynamic performer and choreographer (Dreamgirls, The Lion King, Death on the Nile) whose sessions encouraged dancers to challenge themselves.
- Lucy-Jane Adcock – Known for leading roles in Matilda, Chicago, Starlight Express, and Guys and Dolls. Brought authentic Musical Theatre training that blended storytelling with technique.
- Freya Sands – Associate choreographer for SIX – The Musical, offering dancers insight into commercial styles at the heart of modern productions.
- Jacqui Jameson – Former Head of Jazz at Laine Theatre Arts who shared classic musical theatre repertoire, including choreography from Kiss Me Kate originally created by Antony Van Laast.
Additional teacher-focused sessions were led by Belinda Basu (Technical Jazz in vocational training) and Ruth Armstrong (integrating Theatre Jazz into young dancers’ development).
A closing Q&A to remember
The day ended with a conversation that many felt was truly special. Antony Van Laast’s Q&A provided inspiration, humour, and personal insight.
“The final talk was extremely entertaining and highly inspirational.”
“What a truly lovely and inspirational man Antony is. We feel very lucky for the experience to have met him.”
Looking ahead
Industry Day 2025 was more than a timetable of classes, it was a celebration of creativity, talent, and shared passion. One parent captured the feeling perfectly:
“We would love to return again and we will absolutely recommend the experience to others.”
