For over a century, Italia Conti has stood as one of the most influential institutions in the creative industry. As we celebrate our 115th anniversary in 2026, the milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the heritage, values and leadership that have shaped our historic performing arts school since its founding in 1911. Across theatre, dance, musical theatre and screen acting, Italia Conti has developed generations of performers while maintaining a clear sense of purpose: to provide rigorous training within an environment that values discipline, creativity and opportunity. The Foundations of a Historic Performing Arts School Italia Conti was founded in London in 1911 by its namesake, Italia Conti, a pioneering teacher who believed that young performers deserved serious training and professional standards. At a time when performing arts education was far less structured, her vision laid the groundwork for what would become one of the UK’s most respected performing arts schools. Over the decades, the Italia Conti has grown and evolved while remaining rooted in its founding principles of excellence and care. Students train in voice, movement, acting, dance and performance craft, building the technical foundations needed to succeed in a competitive industry. Today, the institution continues to prepare students for careers across stage, screen and audio performance. A Legacy of Female Leadership One of the most distinctive aspects of Italia Conti’s history is its uninterrupted lineage of female leadership. Since its founding, the performing arts school has been led by a succession of women who have shaped its direction and culture. From Italia Conti herself to Ruth Conti, Eve Sheward, Anne Sheward, Sam Newton and now Hayley Newton-Jarvis, this continuity represents 115 years of female leadership within the organisation. Reflecting on this legacy, CEO Hayley Newton-Jarvis said: “As we celebrate 115 years of Italia Conti, I am constantly aware that I stand on the shoulders of the women who came before me. The leadership of my grandmother, my aunt and my mother shaped not only this institution, but my understanding of what leadership in the arts can and should be.” She added that the institution’s anniversary is not simply about history, but about continuing the values established over generations. “This anniversary year is an opportunity to honour that legacy, but also to ensure that it remains alive and relevant.” Leadership That Shapes Culture The university’s leadership today reflects that ongoing commitment. Alongside Newton-Jarvis as Chief Executive Officer, the senior team includes Miranda Tatton-Brown (Chief Operating Officer), Kathy-Ann Darmody (Finance Director), Harriet Whitbread (Head of School of Acting), and Lucy Dungate (Artistic Producer). Together, they continue to guide our performing arts school through an evolving industry while maintaining its educational ethos. Miranda Tatton-Brown notes the influence this heritage has on organisational culture: “Being part of an organisation that has been women-led for 115 years creates a strong sense of empowerment and confidence. It allows us to lead with both empathy and rigour.” Similarly, Finance Director Kathy-Ann Darmody highlights the long-term perspective that comes with sustaining a creative institution across generations. “Working within a leadership culture shaped by women over generations brings a sense of responsibility not just to the present, but to the future.” Artistic Excellence at the Core For students and tutors alike, the impact of this legacy is visible in everyday training environments. Harriet Whitbread, Head of School of Acting, explains that the university’s heritage influences how teaching and rehearsal spaces operate. “It creates rehearsal rooms where care and challenge coexist, and where leadership feels visible, attainable and grounded.” This balance between support and discipline has long been a defining feature of Italia Conti as a performing arts school. Looking Toward the Future As Italia Conti enters its 115th year, we remain focused on the future of performing arts education. Training programmes continue to adapt to the needs of modern performers, incorporating stage, screen and digital performance skills. Artistic Producer Lucy Dungate emphasises that the university’s history provides inspiration rather than limitation. “The influence of women who have led Italia Conti for over a century continues to resonate creatively. It permits us to lead boldly and place artistic integrity at the heart of everything we do.” A Living Legacy For many institutions, history can become something distant. At Italia Conti, heritage remains an active part of our identity. Celebrating 115 years as a performing arts school is not simply about marking the past. It is about recognising the leadership, artistry and commitment that continue to shape the university today and will guide the next generation of performers for years to come.