AED Hosts Successful First Forum at Warwick University

AED is delighted to celebrate the success of its first ever AED Forum, held at University of Warwick in January 2026.

The event brought together adjudicators, festivals and members of the AED community, creating a dedicated space for connection, collaboration and open conversation about the future of dance festival culture.

Guided by the 2026 theme, Bridging Traditions, the Forum explored how heritage and innovation can work side by side. Through professional development sessions, creative discussions and networking opportunities, delegates shared ideas and perspectives that will help shape AED’s direction in the years ahead.

The weekend was marked by a strong sense of community and engagement, with positive feedback from attendees. Insights gathered during the Forum will directly inform AED’s ongoing work as the organisation continues to support adjudicators and festivals and look ahead to 2028 and beyond.

AED would like to thank all speakers, contributors and delegates who helped make the first AED Forum such a successful and meaningful event.
Attached are some pictures I took – I don’t know which would work best in the space, but there’s a few options.