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LONDON CALLING
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The 'leading' bodies in which Noreen was closely involved included the Association of Operatic Dancing, which became the Royal Academy of Dancing (RAD) in 1935, and The British Ballet Organisation (BBO) which was mentioned earlier. A third important and influential organisation with which both Noreen and Victor were associated at this time was the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. Although ballet was represented, from 1924, in the guise of The Cecchetti Society, it had a more universal role embracing ballroom and other dance styles. Victor retained an active role in the ISTD for many years. He was appointed Vice-Chairman of the Council of Management as late as 1958 and, with the introduction of the early tap syllabuses, he willingly gave advice.

It was now that Noreen was able to consolidate her experiences and connections to become a much sought-after teacher. With Victor actively involved, her career was in the ascendant. Some of the students, of course, were hopelessly ill-suited for ballet training: some were already professional performers in musical theatre for whom Victor was an invaluable tutor, and younger students were able to develop their potential. However, most important, on the door, all were able to pay the modest fee for their visit! One young London student was Celia Franca who was to dance and create roles for Ballet Rambert and Sadler's Wells Ballet before founding the National Ballet of Canada.

Ballet class at  Henrietta Street Studio

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Forward Fellowes Road - Family 1930-1939
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