It’s been over two weeks since I’ve returned from my trip to London, where I attended the International Dance Teacher Conference. Even though I missed my studio and all my students, I keep thinking what a wonderful experience it was.  In fact, I’ve barely unpacked my bags and the organizers of the conference are already sending me emails about next year’s event. And I have to admit that I’m really tempted to register and do it all again.

I’ve been to other dance teacher conferences, but this one was special for a number of reasons. First, it was held at the Royal Ballet School, located right in the Covent Garden area of London. Those facilities are truly world class. Second, the size of the conference was just right with about 80 dance teachers. Some of the sessions I attended only had six or seven attendees. And lastly, the quality of the instructors was outstanding.

The whole point of attending one of these conferences is to grow as an instructor. Unlike many of the conferences held in the States, this one offered a lot more ballet classes. Of course, I appreciate all kinds of dance, but I wanted to pick up tips for the classes I teach and love the most.

I enjoyed all of the classes I attended, but there were two ballet classes that were most memorable. The first one was a session all conference attendees observed. Dame Monica Mason, the former Director of The Royal Ballet, coached Lauren Cuthbertson, who is a current principal dancer with the Royal Ballet. They worked on a variation from Act II of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s ballet Manon.

We watched as Dame Monica Mason gave Lauren tips on style and artistry.  And she told stories about working with Kenneth MacMillan. I didn’t think it was possible, but we saw the piece transform in an hour.

After observing this working rehearsal, it was our turn to dance. Lauren taught us the Woodland Glade Fairy variation from Sleeping Beauty.  It’s a short variation, but quite difficult. What I didn’t realize when deciding to take this workshop was that Dame Monica Mason would be in the room! I have to admit that it was a little intimidating at first, but she was very kind to the class as she gave us tips and pointers! It was a real treat.

So, I’ve returned to my little studio with lots of new ideas and combinations. I can’t wait to begin sharing all I learned at conference with my students.  And, I just might have to click on the register button to go again next year!

Here’s some video resources:

International Dance Teacher Conference highlights:
The Manon variation danced by Sylvie Guillem
The Woodland Glade Fairy variation performed by the Royal Ballet