Constance Grant and Harry Silvester

Born in 1902, Constance Grant was the youngest of seven children and began her career in dance through sheer determination and passion. While performing at a dinner dance, she met her future husband, Harry Silvester, an accomplished pianist and band leader. It was a perfect partnership: Connie brought the artistry, Harry the business acumen, and together they built the foundation of the Constance Grant legacy.

They established the Dance Centre on Psalter Lane, where it still thrives today. In 1937, Connie and Harry welcomed their daughter, Judith Ann  fondly known as “Miss Judy”  who would later become Principal of the Psalter Lane Studios, while Connie herself continued to run the Cavendish Ballroom.

 Judy Silvester

Miss Judy trained at the Constance Grant Dance Centre, Bush Davies College in London, and the Lehmiski School of Ballet in Birmingham, gaining top qualifications in theatre and ballroom dance. She went on to a distinguished career as a teacher, examiner, and choreographer, serving as an IDTA Senior Examiner, a Board member for 25 years, and President in 1992–93.

A driving force behind the Theatre Craft and Tap syllabi still used today, she was honoured with the IDTA Distinguished Service Award and two Carl Alan Awards. As Director of Croft House Theatre Company and Chair of Miss Dance of Great Britain and Dance Master UK, she brought these prestigious events to Sheffield and continued to inspire dancers around the world until her passing in 2013.

Karen Siddall

Karen trained from childhood under her mother, Judith Silvester, at the Constance Grant Dance Centre before completing a three-year Musical Theatre and Teacher Training course at Laine Theatre Arts in Epsom. She then began her career with a teaching post in Italy and went on to work as a professional dancer across the world, performing in Spain, Germany, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Mexico, and Portugal. In 1993, Karen returned home to join the family business, achieving Fellowship status with the IDTA and taking on both teaching and management roles at the Constance Grant Dance Centre.

Karen also served as Chairperson of the Miss Dance and Dance Master of Great Britain Championships organising committee, proudly continuing the work of her late mother, Judith Silvester. She remained a dedicated teacher and leader until her passing in July 2019.