2 September 2021
Further to the success and international reach of our faculty events, our 2021 Theatre Bursary Awards took place online for the first time in its’ history. This prestigious event brought together dancers from all over the world and included nominees from Mexico, New Zealand and Portugal.
We were delighted that this years awards were adjudicated by Adam Cooper, Dollie Henry and Shobana Jeyasingh and the panel were impressed with the outstanding quality of all of the entries this year and would like to congratulate all of the young dancers who took part for their hard work and dedication.
We are pleased to announce that the winners of the 2021 Theatre Bursary Awards are:
Junior winner student: Mei Ling Wang, Classical Greek Dance
Junior winner teacher: Amanda Wilkins, Kilburn School of Dance
Mei Ling Wang, Classical Greek Dance
Senior Winner: Sharmila Biswas, Classical Indian Dance
Senior winner teacher: Chitraleka Bolar, Chitraleka Dance Academy
Sharmila Biswas, Classical Indian Dance
"I was absolutely overwhelmed when I found out that I had won the award. It means so much to me and it is a wonderful way to celebrate my long hard years of training in dance. I am so excited to be able to use this bursary to further pursue my passion for dance and I cannot wait to see where my journey takes me."
SHARMILA BISWAS, SENIOR WINNER 2021
Commendations were awarded to:
Junior Commendation: Craig Noakes, Tap Dance
Junior commendation teacher: Simone Castle, Stagestruck Academy
Craig Noakes, Tap Dance
Senior: Joel Calstar-Fisher, Cecchetti Classical Ballet
Senior commendation teacher: Juan Eymar/David Yow, English National Ballet School
Joel Calstar-Fisher, Cecchetti Classical Ballet
"This award has refuelled my passion to teach and this reward means so much to me and my school. It has given a student that has lost confidence his mojo back and will allow me to help other students and our dance studio some well needed attention."
SIMONE CASTLE, STAGESTRUCK ACADEMY (UK), JUNIOR COMMENDATION TEACHER 2021
Each of the student winners and commendations received a financial bursary award the support future dance training, while all nominated teachers received a financial bursary award for their school to engage in development opportunities, community activity or to support students in financial need.
"This scholarship will not only serve as an incentive for the school, but will also help those who dedicate themselves body and soul to this art, but are unable to afford it."
TERESA VIEIRA, CENTRO DE DANÇA DO PORTO (PORTUGAL) – NOMINATED TEACHER 2021
