The dance community deeply mourns the passing of Joy Ransley FRAD, a figure of extraordinary dedication and influence. Tributes and condolences shared on social media reflect the profound impact she had on countless lives, a testament to her unwavering commitment to dance education.
Joy Ransley's journey began with training alongside her sister Dawn in Australia, followed by a scholarship to the Royal Ballet School (formerly Sadler’s Wells) in the UK. Notably, she was present during the school's transition under Royal patronage and participated in its inaugural end-of-year assessments, where she distinguished herself by topping her class in both classical and character assessments. During her time at the school, she also performed with The Royal Ballet Company. Subsequently, she danced as a soloist with the Dutch National Ballet until returning to Australia.
Upon her return, Joy dedicated herself to teaching at the family school alongside her sisters, fellow teacher Dawn, and pianist Shirley, continuing a practice she had begun at an early age. She was invited by Joy Bury to train as a Children’s Examiner for the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), a role she excelled in. In 2012, she marked 50 years of examining for the RAD, a remarkable achievement. Throughout her decades long career, she examined both Grades and Vocational levels across the world.
Returning to Australia, Joy joined the New South Wales State committee of the RAD, where she worked tirelessly. She initiated the first-ever RAD seminar in Australia, a groundbreaking event that brought teachers from across the country together to deepen their understanding of the RAD syllabus. This seminar, which included demonstrations and examiner-led classes, became an annual success and led to the development of similar programs nationwide. These regional committees and courses continue to thrive, in part thanks to Joy's pioneering efforts.
Joy's commitment to the RAD extended beyond examinations. She taught numerous RAD courses worldwide, including regional programs in the UK and international summer schools for over 30 years. She also taught on the Professional Dance Teacher’s Course at RAD Headquarters, a career highlight. Outside of the RAD, she taught at prestigious schools across the UK, including The Royal Ballet School, English National Ballet School, Elmhurst, Central School, and West Street, and there are not many major schools in Australia who did not invite Joy to guest teach at some point.
Throughout her teaching career, Joy trained numerous successful Genée students, including finalists and winners. She presented thousands of students for RAD examinations, many of whom are now dance teachers across the world. Eight of her former students joined Royal Ballet Companies, six at Covent Garden, a source of great pride for her and the RAD. Her dedication inspired hundreds of students to become loyal RAD members, many of whom now serve on regional committees or as examiners. She also actively encouraged individuals worldwide to pursue careers in the dance industry. Beyond ballet, she nurtured talent across disciplines, with musical theatre stars like Caroline O'Connor and director Karen Johnson Mortimer emerging from her tutelage, demonstrating the breadth of her impact.
In recognition of her over 50 years of dedicated service to the Royal Academy of Dance, Joy Ransley was awarded a Fellowship of the Royal Academy of Dance (FRAD). This prestigious honour stands as a testament to her profound impact and unwavering commitment to the RAD’s mission and standards.
Social media tributes have highlighted her dedication and impact. Sonja Dene wrote, "Joy, your patience, guidance, and unwavering belief in us all has forged our incredible dance journey. Your passing leaves a huge void, but your impact...will forever remain in our hearts." Multiple former students and colleagues have expressed gratitude for Joy's influence on her RAD teaching certification, remembering her as "an incredible and inspiring teacher and friend." Meghan Cooper recalled, “I learned today Joy Ransley passed away. I first met her at the age of 11 at a RAD course for Senior Grade. I went on to be at the Royal Ballet School with her daughter Nicole Ransley. Years later I had the privilege of teaching for Joy Ransley at her studio and I am so grateful. The reason why I am a certified RAD teacher is because of you. I am forever grateful.”
Joy Ransley's contributions to dance education and her commitment to nurturing talent have left a lasting legacy. She will be remembered for her dedication, pioneering spirit, and enduring influence within the Australian and international dance communities.