ISLANDERS have paid tribute to a “much-loved” dance teacher and local legend in Jersey’s performing arts scene who has died.
The Jersey Academy of Dancing announced with “great sadness” that Annette Perkins – known as “Miss P” to her students – “passed away peacefully” on Friday morning at 84 years old.
She taught ballet and classical Greek dance to generations of young girls and boys throughout her career at the academy, many of whom took to social media to thank her for her support, inspiration and lasting advice.
Representatives of the JAD wrote: “Miss Perkins was a truly wonderful teacher. Her ballet lessons will be fondly remembered and her Greek lessons will never be forgotten by all the pupils she taught. Please waft your chiffon scarves in her honour.
“An incredible lady, she will be greatly missed by all of her past and present JAD family.”
Laura Reynolds, the current principal of JAD, who taught alongside Miss Perkins for 25 years, said that the beloved teacher had been at the school for “well over” 60 years – and she was still teaching over Zoom during lockdown.
After training with the JAD as a young girl, Miss Perkins went to the Royal Ballet School and received offers upon graduation from ballet companies – but at 18, she ultimately made the decision to return to Jersey.
“She was so homesick and couldn’t think of anything other than coming back to her roots,” Miss Reynolds added.
She continued: “It’s hard to sum her up, but she was always known as a very strict and disciplined teacher who got the very best out of all of her students. She always encouraged them and pushed them that bit further, especially if it was their dream. She touched so many lives in the Island.”
The Jersey Green Room Theatre Company, where she had been an honorary patron since 2021, said: “A life-long member of the club, ‘Miss P’ has been at the centre of the Jersey Green Room Theatre Company’s success for many years, building its future for the benefit of both our members and audiences.
“A strong, courageous and beautiful lady, Annette was respected and loved by all who knew her, and she will be forever missed. The members and committee of JGRTC send their thoughts and loving wishes to all of Annette’s family and friends.”
“Miss P” made her debut for the club in the 1940s, and in 1965 choreographed her first pantomime, Aladdin.
In total, she choreographed a record number of 40 Jersey Green Room productions. She also sat on the management committee as vice-president for many years.
