Swindon Dance - Youth Dance Academy

SWINDON DANCE
YOUTH DANCE ACADEMY
is a nationally-recognised Centre for Advanced Training, part of the Government's Music & Dance Scheme for exceptionally gifted and talented young dancers.

WHO IS IT FOR?

Anyone with exceptional potential in dance who lives in the South West of England, aged 11-17 years old. It is open to novices, committed dancers and all levels of experience in between.

WHEN ARE THE CLASSES?

The Academy course runs each year. Classes are held every Saturday afternoon during school terms. One or two short holiday courses and a summer intensive are also part of the programme.

WHERE?

The classes are held at Swindon Dance. Further regional locations are planned.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The cost of fees is available on request. Financial support is available (see opposite) and is subject to means testing.

CAN I JOIN?

Entry to the Academy is by audition

Auditions are held in July each year

Any interested young person can apply to audition by either :
— getting their school to nominate them ... see the teacher responsible for dance at your school or college
— or nominating yourself by sending us a completed application form ... see opposite

Applicants are invited to attend an open day to take part in various dance sessions, meet the team and have a chance to ask questions. Open days are held at regional venues, usually in June each year.

URBAN STRAND

The new Urban Strand Youth Dance Academy — a new form of training for urban, b-boy, R&B and street dancers — started May 2008.

AIMS OF THE ACADEMY

To provide access to top quality dance training and coaching
for exceptionally talented young dancers.

To help young people develop creative, performance and technical skills/knowledge that will prepare them for higher vocational training and, ultimately, a career in dance.

THE COURSE

The course provides :
— regular training and coaching with experienced professional dance artists
— regular mentoring sessions and feedback on progress
— opportunities to work with and attend performances by professional dancers and dance companies
— information about career choices and pathways in dance

Training and development includes :
— contemporary and classical techniques, as well as other dance styles and techniques relevant to tomorrow's professional dancers
— performance skills
— creative and choreographic skills
— musical knowledge for dancers
— Healthier Dancer issues

WHAT WE LOOK FOR AT AUDITIONS

We are looking for young people who can demonstrate :
— outstanding ability to express themselves through movement and physical coordination
— energy, musicality, creativity and flair
— a serious desire, plus the commitment and enthusiasm, to explore dance in depth

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

The Academy is part of the Department for Children, Schools & Families' (ex DfES) Advanced Dance and Music Scheme for exceptionally gifted and talented young dancers. Financial support towards fees, travel and equipment is available for students who qualify for the Scheme. Support is subject to means testing and DCSF regulations.

INFORMATION + APPLICATION FORMS

For an information pack and application form, contact :

Administrator, Youth Dance Academy
Swindon Dance
Regent Circus, Swindon SN1 1QF
yda@swindondance.org.uk