Conference 2022

Our live Conference in 2022 was held in the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne. We were especially pleased to have operatic bass Graeme Danby, and dancer and choreographer Eliot Smith as our guest  speakers. Born in County Durham, Graeme's operatic career spans over 39 years and he is recognised as one of the most prolific character bass soloists of his generation.  Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, Eliot is the Founder & Creative Director of  Eliot Smith Dance (ESD).  

You can read more about both speakers here. 

Sessions over the weekend included: 

• New marking scheme for adjudicators
• Festival marketing, recruitment and managing change 
• What’s new and inclusive: Interesting and accessible ideas for new classes.  How can we encourage diversity in syllabus choices? 
• How to manage those challenging conversations
• Use of appropriate language
• The future shape of conference 
• Members' Forum

Last but not least, Steven Roberts and Debbie Norris rolled out the red carpet and launch our BIFF Centenary Film. Hollywood here we come!