Leeds Civic Trust is celebrating a significant milestone by unveiling its 200th blue plaque in honour of the esteemed dance educator Nadine Senior MBE. The blue plaque will highlight Senior’s lasting influence on the world of dance and education, particularly in Leeds, where her work transformed the arts landscape.
As a former headteacher of Harehills Middle School and founding principal of Northern School of Contemporary Dance, she pioneered a dance curriculum that nurtured the talents of students, many of whom went on to form or perform with the world-renowned Leeds based Phoenix Dance Theatre. Her dedication to making dance accessible to all, regardless of background, has left a lasting legacy in the city’s cultural scene.
The unveiling will not just be a commemoration of her contributions to dance education but also a celebration of her vision in shaping inclusive opportunities for young people through the arts. Senior was a force, a true trailblazer. She held a very clear, profound philosophy about the value of the arts and particularly of dance, for the individual, the city of Leeds and society in general. Her impact on the British dance ecology, at a particularly formative stage, was considerable.
The blue plaque will be unveiled on Friday 04 October, 15:30. After the unveiling, guests are invited into NSCD to a photographic exhibition and slideshow.
Trust Director Martin Hamilton said, “It seems entirely appropriate that Leeds Civic Trust’s 200th plaque celebrates someone who had a positive impact on so many lives in Leeds. Nadine Senior’s legacy in the world of dance, culture and the arts can be witnessed through the success of NDCD and of those who were nurtured by her.”
NSCD CEO and Principal, Sharon Watson MBE, DL, herself a former student of Senior, said, “Nadine was a remarkable individual and pioneering force in dance education. The tremendous impact of her contribution continues to resonate; it underpins not only NSCD but Leeds as a City of Dance. She dedicated her life to inspiring young dancers and transforming the landscape of training. Her impact is reflected in the countless artists she nurtured. As we unveil this blue plaque in her honour — on what would have been her 85th birthday — we celebrate her extraordinary legacy. This tribute serves as a lasting reminder of her commitment to creativity and passion in dance, guiding future generations on their own journeys of artistic expression.”
To register your attendance, visit www.leedscivictrust.org.uk.
