Over 75 years. The Society of Australian Teachers of Dancing (SATD) is a sports club located in Sydney, Australia. Founded in 1945, SATD was created by a group of Stage Teachers with the aim of forming an alternate dance association in Australia. The inaugural meeting, chaired by the late Jack Keating, successfully united Ballroom and Stage Teachers and led to the formation of SATD.
Under the guidance of Jack Keating, along with Des Etheridge as Secretary and the late Bob Potter as Treasurer, SATD introduced medal test examinations and continued to promote Amateur and Professional competitions and championship events. In 1949, SATD facilitated the formation of SATD New Zealand after a visit from Jack and Val Guthrie. The collaboration between SATD (NSW) and the Australian Institute of Dance (WA) resulted in successful Interstate Teams' Matches in the early 1950s.
SATD played a significant role in organising the Australasian Championships in 1950 and has remained the official organiser of the championships despite format changes over the years. The 1964 establishment of the Australian Dancing Board saw Jack Keating, Eileen Kane, Robert Wrightson, and the late Mickey Powell playing crucial roles in its formation. In 1978, SATD became a member of the Australian Dancing Board and has maintained this membership.
SATD is actively involved in the dance fraternity and is recognised as one of the leading dance organisations in Australia. The club has been dedicated to serving the dance community for over 75 years and continues to foster dance education and development. SATD organises various festivals throughout the year, including the Southern Highlands Titles and the Christmas Dance Festival, and has future festivals proposed for 2023 and 2024.
The Society of Australian Teachers of Dancing has multiple studios located in Sydney where dance classes and workshops are held. The club provides a platform for dancers of all ages and skill levels to pursue their passion for dance and learn from experienced dance teachers. SATD offers a variety of dance styles, including ballroom, stage, and contemporary, and provides opportunities for students to participate in medal test examinations and compete in competitions and championships.
SATD is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive dance community where dancers can develop their skills, enhance their creativity, and build lifelong friendships. The club values the promotion of dance as an art form and strives to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers. With a rich history and a dedication to dance excellence, the Society of Australian Teachers of Dancing is an esteemed sports club in Sydney that continues to make a significant impact in the dance world.