IDTA International Dance Teachers Association

IDTA International Dance Teachers Association From a small group of founding members in Manchester, to a global Association with over 7000 members, the IDTA has been at the very heart of dance since 1903.

The International Dance Teachers’ Association is a leading dance qualifications awarding body and membership organisation, supporting and educating dancers and dance teachers around the world. In 1903, a group of teachers in Manchester area formed an association, the Manchester and Salford Association of Teachers of Dancing. The prime mover was James Finnigan – the arranger of the dance the Milita

ry Two Step – and it is interesting to note that James’ great-granddaughter, Julie Laird, is currently a prominent member of the IDTA. With time the ‘and Salford’ was dropped from the name of the Association and then in 1938 the name was changed to the Empire Society. In the first decade of the century, other small associations were established and four such were the English Association of Dancing Masters, Premier Association of Teachers of Dancing, Universal Association of Teachers of Dancing, and Yorkshire Association of Dancing Masters. In 1930, these four bodies amalgamated to form the International Dancing Masters’ Association. This body grew in strength and stature until in 1955 it was felt necessary to become a company limited by guarantee. Meanwhile, Birmingham area teachers joined together in 1920 to create the Midland Dance Teachers’ Association. This body grew beyond its original area base and changed its name in 1958 to the Dance Teachers’ Association. Shortly after in 1961 it merged with the Empire Society retaining the name Dance Teachers’ Association

In 1967, the IDMA and DTA merged, becoming the International Dance Teachers’ Association, retaining the Limited by Guarantee status of the IDMA. This merger created one of the largest dance teacher organisations in the world.

05/06/2026

⭐ World Dance Convention 2026⭐

XAVIER NAVARRE & LINZI MACE - ARGENTINE TANGO

Xavier and Linzi run Dark Side Dance in Norfolk-a school teaching social dancers, medallists and those undertaking professional teacher training with the IDTA. They are both honoured and delighted to be invited to lecture at the IDTA World Dance Convention.

Xavier is an IDTA Fellow and Life Member and has been a qualified dance teacher for nearly 50 years, winning the John Knight award for Ballroom in 2022. Initially trained by Bill Phillips, he was introduced to Argentine Tango by Gloria and Eduardo Arquimbau. He has taught dance in many different cultures worldwide.

Linzi started dancing for fun 15 years ago then got the bug! Completing an IDTA Associate 10 years ago, she has since undertaken a few exams after all-attaining her Licentiates in Ballroom, Latin and Viennese Waltz, Diplomas in Argentine Tango and Salsa and is currently working towards her first Fellowship.

It's back!STRICTLY BALLROOM returns to cinemas across the UK & Ireland from 12 June for a limited run.One of the most be...
05/06/2026

It's back!

STRICTLY BALLROOM returns to cinemas across the UK & Ireland from 12 June for a limited run.

One of the most beloved dance films ever made, Baz Luhrmann's classic is back on the big screen with unforgettable ballroom sequences, romance, humour and passion for dance.

★★★★★ Radio Times
★★★★ Empire Magazine

🎟️ Tickets & screenings:
https://www.vertigoreleasing.com/movie/strictly-ballroom?section=in-cinemas

Entries are open 👇✨ INVENTIVE DANCE 2026 ✨The IDTA is delighted to present the Nancy Clarke Trophies and prizes to the w...
04/06/2026

Entries are open 👇

✨ INVENTIVE DANCE 2026 ✨

The IDTA is delighted to present the Nancy Clarke Trophies and prizes to the winning dances in the Classical Sequence, Modern Sequence and Latin Sequence sections.

First prize will be £200 plus £50 expenses for the winning couple.

Each of the remaining finalists will also receive £50 expenses per couple.

Each competition will be run to its conclusion. Winning dances will be taught at the afternoon's Social Dance.

Link to register your entry in comments👇

03/06/2026

⭐ World Dance Convention 2026 ⭐

STACEY FARLEY - STREET

Stacey Farley runs a successful dance school alongside her sister Keely in Surrey and Hampshire with many great teachers working with them.

Fellow of the IDTA in Freestyle and Latin and working towards her Fellowship in Ballroom. She is also qualified in Salsa. She continues to teach all ages and abilities for shows, exams and competitions whilst continuing her own continual development.

In Street, her teams have been successful many years achieving national champion status. They were also lucky enough to perform as the Street Cabaret for the London Meeting in 2020 and the South East Area Ballroom Dinner Dance in 2023.

The dance school has also achieved many Scholarship nominations in Freestyle and Street over the years being placed in some categories throughout the years. Taking members of her dance school to perform in Disney Land Paris and New York across the recent years has been amongst many highlights and has more opportunities for the dance school in the pipeline.

🚨 Entries now closed We are looking forward to everyone joining us for the International Choreographic Awards 2026 on Sa...
02/06/2026

🚨 Entries now closed

We are looking forward to everyone joining us for the International Choreographic Awards 2026 on Saturday 26th September at the RNCM, Manchester.

For more information email [email protected]

02/06/2026

Have you introduced American Smooth into your dance school?

American Smooth can be an exciting addition to your teaching repertoire. This dynamic American dance genre can bring a fresh dimension to your classes, helping to engage current students and attract new ones, while also providing a natural introduction to Ballroom dancing for your pupils.

You can download the Professional syllabus in the Members Area and purchase the official American Smooth syllabus book directly through IDTA Sales.

The American Smooth Associate starting date for candidates wishing to take this examination is September 1st 2026. American Smooth Licentiate starting date for candidates wishing to take this examination is January 1st 2027.

02/06/2026

⭐ World Dance Convention 2026 ⭐

CHRISTOPHER MILLWARD - WALTZ & QUICKSTEP

Christopher Millward is the owner and principal of Cadmans Dance Centre alongside his wife, Vicki. With a distinguished competitive dance career, Christopher achieved success as a Junior, amateur and professional as British National finalist, European semi-finalist, and UK Closed finalist, earning recognition for his talent and dedication within the ballroom and dance world.

Together, Chris and Vicki have continued the proud legacy of Cadmans Dance Centre, one of the longest-running dance schools in the country. Under their leadership, the school has trained and inspired many nationwide champions, building a reputation for excellence, professionalism, and a passion for developing dancers of all ages and abilities

Are you joining us on the dance floor?Tickets are still available for our Annual Dinner Dance on Sunday 5th July.It prom...
31/05/2026

Are you joining us on the dance floor?

Tickets are still available for our Annual Dinner Dance on Sunday 5th July.

It promises to be an unforgettable evening of great food, live entertainment, and, of course, plenty of dancing.

✨ Three-course dinner
✨ Cabaret
✨ Live band

Gather your friends, dress for the occasion, and join us on the dance floor.

Closing date for tickets 👇

📆 14th June 2026

Tickets available until 14th June 🚨Don't miss out!On Sunday 5th July the IDTA will be hosting a spectacular evening incl...
29/05/2026

Tickets available until 14th June 🚨

Don't miss out!

On Sunday 5th July the IDTA will be hosting a spectacular evening including a three course meal, cabaret and a band to help you dance the night away.

Dust off your finest outfits and join us in Blackpool ✨

26/05/2026

⭐ World Dance Convention 2026 ⭐

KATY NORTH - ROCK 'N' ROLL

Katy North has been teaching for 21 years and runs her own successful dance school in Cambridgeshire which prides itself on inclusion. She studied Dance Teaching at Bucks New Uni and holds IDTA teaching qualifications in Rock ‘n’ Roll, Street Dance, Freestyle and Cheerleading. In addition to this Katy is a qualified Wheelchair Dance instructor and is level 4 Makaton trained.

Katy had the privilege of lecturing on Inclusive Dance at the IDTA World Dance Convention in July 2025 and is delighted to be returning this year to lecture in Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Address

International House, 76 Bennett Road
Brighton
BN25JL

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 4:30pm
Thursday 9am - 4:30pm
Friday 9am - 4:30pm

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+44 (0)1273 685 652

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