The program is open to students in Years 10-12 wishing to develop into creative, forward-thinking contemporary dance artists. Guided by the ethos of Sydney Dance Company, The McDonald College will offer students the opportunity to develop advanced contemporary dance techniques and collaboration skills at the forefront of the industry.
“Currently, secondary dance students in NSW have no option to study elite contemporary dance training whilst remaining at school, and often they leave prematurely before finishing their studies in order to attend full-time dance training institutions. This program will allow students to continue their academic schooling whilst receiving world-class contemporary dance training, including obtaining their NSW Higher School Certificate,” said Maxine Kohler, Principal and Founding Member of The McDonald College.
“Our current school model, which we have successfully implemented for 34 years, demonstrates the perfect balance between academic studies and performing arts training. We have identified an opportunity to deliver an exceptional contemporary dance program which specifically caters for senior secondary school students, curated by one of the most iconic performing arts institutions in the country, Sydney Dance Company.”
Students will develop their technical skills and artistry while working with choreographers and educators pioneering their artform. Students may come from a variety of styles including classical ballet, hip hop, tap and/or jazz and will train towards an elite contemporary dance career as an ensemble member of a fulltime dance company, an independent dancer, choreographer, director, dance educator, or an integral collaborator in any creative environment.
Skills learned across the three main focus areas of Technique, Creativity and Performance, will support students’ development across all areas of contemporary dance. By exploring various improvisation skills and movement qualities, students will enhance their ability to collaborate in a co-creative environment becoming active creators in choreographic developments.
Students have the option to audition for Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year upon completion of this program. They may also wish to pursue a number of pathway opportunities to further their training.
“Sydney Dance Company is thrilled to be collaborating with The McDonald College on this innovative program for young dancers. It gives me great pleasure to witness these dancers receiving the support and industry expertise required to transform into sophisticated artists,” said Rafael Bonachela, Sydney Dance Company Artistic Director.
Auditions for the 2019 Senior Contemporary Dance Program will be held on Friday 28 September 2018 at The McDonald College in North Strathfield, Sydney. Attending this audition will be artistic staff of Sydney Dance Company and The McDonald College.
Applications are open from Tuesday 14 August to Tuesday 25 September. For more information about the program, please click here.