We are thrilled to share the news that Royal Holloway alumna and choreographer Susan Kempster (MA Contemporary Performance Practices, 2014) has been nominated for a National Dance Award for her work 'Mother' - a powerful new piece commissioned by Sadler’s Wells Theatre in 2024. The work was supported by Central School of Ballet and funded by Arts Council England.
Currently Course Leader for the MA in Choreography at Central School of Ballet in London, Susan continues to make a significant impact both as a dance educator and independent artist.
“I came to study the MA as a mature student, with already 30 years of professional experience in dance and the performing arts,” she shares. “The MA enabled working in Higher Education institutions in the UK, and since graduating I have taught at some of the top institutions in the country.”
These include London Contemporary Dance School, London Studio Centre, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, and Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance. Her impressive teaching portfolio reflects the breadth of her experience and the doors that opened following her postgraduate study.
The nomination for Mother marks a new highlight in an already illustrious career. The choreography was developed with the support of Sadler’s Wells Theatre and Central School of Ballet, with funding from Arts Council England - an organisation that has recognised and backed Susan's work on several occasions.
Reflecting on her time at Royal Holloway, Susan says her MA experience was a transformative step in her career path.
“What I learned doing the MA, and the rigour at Royal Holloway, have stood me in good stead, helping me become more articulate about my artistic practice,” she explains. “One of my tutors, David Williams, was an exceptionally articulate observer of theatre and life, and I would like to acknowledge his influence.”
Her advice to students pursuing a career in the arts is grounded in practical experience:
“Learn business skills, and be persistent,” she says. “Royal Holloway has a beautiful campus and is a great university - it really gave me the tools I needed to take the next step in my career.”
We congratulate Susan on her well-deserved National Dance Award nomination and look forward to following her continued contributions to dance, education and performance in the UK and beyond.
