Plumstead ballet teacher nominated Royal Academy of Dance Innovation Award

Ingrid Carlson, founder of the Ingrid Carlson School of Ballet (ICSB) in Plumstead, was one of only four teachers worldwide to be shortlisted for the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Innovation in Dance Award.

The award recognises teachers across the globe who demonstrate exceptional creativity and forward-thinking in their teaching methods, choreography, or broader contribution to the dance industry

While Ms Carlson did not win the award this time, a nomination was still considered an honour alongside finalists Luiz Carlos Nogueira, Ruth Mair Howard-Jones, and Liviane Pimenta.

"I am inspired to continue assisting future dancers and choreographers in South Africa," said Ms Carlson, who is a Life Member of the RAD, has always been passionate about dance and the advancement of dance in South Africa.

Several of her students have gone on to become professional dancers or teachers both locally and abroad.

Ms Carlson trained at UCT Ballet School and, after dancing with the Performing Arts Centre of the Free State company, opened her own ballet school in Cape Town. She has also taught at numerous institutions, including Dance for All in Athlone and Zama Dance School in Gugulethu, with a steadfast commitment to nurturing local talent.

At ICSB, training is based on the world-renowned Russian Vaganova method, a training approach that Ms Carlson incorporated after working closely with Vaganova graduate and dance professor Ljiljana Urosevic. ICSB students also take examinations and get to perform in ICSB shows regularly.

Over the decades, Ms Carlson had consistently secured bursaries for students in need—many of whom have gone on to excel in ballet. She also introduced a Creative Movement category for teachers and dancers at the Cape Town Ballet Eisteddfod, which had become one of the most popular events in the competition and drew large numbers of entries annually.

This category encourages choreographers to develop and present original, expressive works.

Last year, Ms Carlson launched a new initiative aimed at guiding dancers through creative and educational experiences that develop their individual artistry and build their potential as the next generation of dancers and choreographers in South Africa.