Paul Liburd

Curiosity and enjoyment: the keystones of advice from the dancer, teacher and judge of the Bedells Bursary 2025.

The best advice I ever received 

The best advice I received from my first director and teachers was to be curious in my approach and learning.

Aiming not to limit myself with a blinkered mindset but to allow exploration to guide and inspire my growth. Try not to dwell on the negative – but learn from mistakes to build and expand growth both mentally, emotionally and physically. There is no going back, but only advancement forward.

Paul Liburd

The advice I would pass on 

Embrace your curiosity in the studio; approach each movement with an open mind, and let your expressions reflect your feelings to tell a story. This will deepen your connection to the art form and allow your artistry in dance to come alive.

Most importantly, find enjoyment in what you do.

I use this now as a teacher, aiming to stay true to the form but allowing my students space to bring their personalities and unique perspectives to the journey.

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REST OF Issue 15 – Feb 2026

Inside RAD post Inside RAD

Celebrating Pavlova

Spanish choreographer Avatâra Ayuso’s latest ballet is about the famed dancer Anna Pavlova. She discusses elevating women in dance, reimagining Pavlova – and the RAD’s role in her research.

Dance Gazette

RAD Q&A post RAD Q&A

Daniel Kraus

After a performing career with English National Ballet and others, Daniel Kraus achieved the Professional Award and Diploma in Benesh Movement Notation with Benesh International. Now a choreologist at the Royal Ballet, has Benesh changed the way he sees dance?

Dance Gazette

Big Picture post Big Picture

Sir Peter Wright

The producer, director and RAD Vice-President turns 100 later this year.

Dance Gazette

Playlist post Playlist

Aletta Collins

Aletta Collins is about to choreograph a new production of Strauss’ opera Salome – including the infamous Dance of the Seven Veils. But what music means most to her?

Dance Gazette

Why Dance Matters post Why Dance Matters

Evie Templeton

The star of the hit Netflix series Wednesday on RAD training and dancing with Lady Gaga.

Dance Gazette

Director’s cut post Director’s cut

Remember to dance

How can young dancers unlock their energy on stage? Alexander Campbell suggests some tips from his own performing experience.

Alexander Campbell

features

A whole new world

RAD exams are held across the world. Natasha Tripney goes in search of four far flung schools – including the most northern and southern locations for RAD exams – to learn why these milestones matter to them.

Natasha Tripney

interviews

Defying gravity

From tap dancing on the street to making Wicked move – choreographer Christopher Scott is an advocate for all kinds of dance. But, asks David Jays, doesn’t he crave an Oscar?

David Jays

features

Baby steps

How do you introduce very small children to dance? Lyndsey Winship meets the teachers awakening young imaginations.

Lyndsey Winship

reports

Pointe of departure

Solos in the RAD’s flagship competitions are now classified as with or without pointework rather than male and female. Emily May explores what this means to dancers, and how it reflects change in the wider ballet profession.

Emily May

interviews

Art surgery

Art is good for you, says Professor Daisy Fancourt – aiding both physical and mental health. She explains her ideas to Anya Ryan – and you can read an exclusive extract from her new book.

Anya Ryan

reports

Up from the streets

Tens of lost, orphaned and runaway children arrive each day at India’s New Delhi rail station – all hoping for a better life. Sally Howard visits a project that’s making their dance dreams come true.

Sally Howard