Imperial Classical Ballet

The roots of Imperial Classical Ballet stem from the early days of the ISTD and the first written syllabus in 1913 which was based on the teaching of the French School from the Paris Opéra. The syllabus has now evolved to promote the English classical style and address the changing needs of Ballet dancers today.

Please note the following amendments to examinations worldwide (since September 2015)

Fellowship Examination
The examiners are no longer specifying the vocabulary to be coached in Part 1, the candidate’s class. Candidates will teach a free class, coaching and teaching elements of their choice at Advanced 2 level.

Intermediate Examination
Girls have the choice of dancing either the girl’s Set Petite Batterie Exercise OR the boy’s Set Petite Batterie Exercise, to the girl’s set music in 2/4 time.

Changes to Licentiate and Fellowship Entry and Requirements (effective since January 2016)

Bursary Awards Information
Bursary Award competitors will be drawn from the winners of the Imperial Classical Ballet Senior Awards 2017 upon recommendation from the Imperial Classical Ballet Faculty.

DVD of the Set Dances and Variations
The DVD of the Imperial Classical Ballet Syllabus Dances and Variations is available from the Sales Department at ISTD HQ, priced £30. Please visit the ISTD shop.

Faculty Newsletter
A Faculty newsletter, 'Imperial Ballet Info', is published twice a year in February and August, to keep teachers up-to-date iwth courses, facutly events, syllabus matters and general information. This is available to teachers by email or post for the small fee of £5 annually. If you are interested in receiving this publication, please contact the Faculty Co-ordinator.

Download a history of the Imperial Classical Ballet Faculty. If you would like to find out more about ISTD history you can order your copy of 100 Years of Dance from our online shop.