Corby SHAPE Dance founder honoured by King for 'passion, generosity and commitment' to town
May Cardwell, a life-long dance professional has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of her exceptional services to dance and the local community in Corby.
May will be presented with the medal by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, James Saunders Watson, the King’s representative in Northamptonshire.
The BEM is awarded for hands-on service to the community and is a significant and distinguished honour.
As part of this national recognition, she will also be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, to celebrate alongside others who have also made outstanding contributions to public life across the UK.
May said: “Being part of the Shape Dance programme for over 50 years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. I have loved every moment of working within the Corby community, sharing the joy of dance and helping to inspire generations of children along the way.
“One of my proudest achievements is seeing so many young dancers grow into confident, talented teachers themselves — it’s incredibly rewarding to watch them develop into the fantastic professionals they are today.
“I truly couldn’t have achieved any of this without the unwavering support of the council, as well as the dedication of dancers, parents and teachers, both past and present.
"This recognition means so much to me, but I honestly feel it belongs to everyone who has been part of the Shape Dance journey over the years. Together, we’ve built something very special.”
May has devoted her life to inspiring a love of dance, both on stage and in the community. Following a successful career on the national and international dance scene, she was approached by Corby Borough Council to run dance classes on their behalf.
More than half a century ago, May established what would become SHAPE Dance, creating opportunities for local children and young people to learn tap, ballet and modern dance in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Her dedication and vision has seen thousands of young people pass through the scheme developing confidence, creativity and a lifelong passion for dance, as well as offering a strong sense of community.
May’s influence continues to be felt across generations – all of the current teachers at SHAPE Dance began as students under her guidance.
Although she has stepped back from regular teaching, May remains at the heart of SHAPE Dance.
She continues to support the school’s productions, handmaking and altering more than 700 costumes each year for its annual shows, keeping costs down, ensuring participation remains accessible for families across the community.
James Saunders Watson, the King’s-Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire said: “Many congratulations on this well-deserved and prestigious honour.”
SHAPE Dance was taken over from Corby Borough Council by North Northamptonshire Council as part of their leisure provision.
May continues to contribute her time and expertise through her ongoing role with the council.
Cllr Brian Benneyworth, executive member for housing, health and leisure at North Northamptonshire Council, added: “This honour is richly deserved.
"May’s dedication over many decades has had a significant impact on the community in Corby and North Northamptonshire.
"Through her passion, generosity and commitment, she has opened up opportunities for thousands of children and young people. We are incredibly proud to see her recognised in the King’s Honours.”