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This creative and challenging course specialises in British Contemporary Dance and American Jazz Dance and combines the practical and theoretical study of dance. Through technique classes, choreography workshops, rehearsals and theory sessions, you will develop your passion for dance as both a choreographer and performer, in addition to developing your critical analysis skills through dance theory.This course not only develops your physical skills needed for a career in the dance industry, but it also enables you to develop a high degree of physical fitness, expands your creative outlet, and builds social and communication skills, confidence and resilience, all of which are transferrable and applicable to many career paths and walks of life.
Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including GCSE Dance, or dance experience at a private dance school.
Component 1 – Performance and Choreography Component2 – Critical EngagementThe two main genres you will study are Contemporary and American Jazz Dance. You will take part in regular technique classes in both genres to improve your strength, stamina and flexibility. You will also develop your choreography skills by experimenting with movement material in response to a variety of stimuli. Additionally, you will have opportunities to perform to the public, including in the College’s annual Spring Dance Showcase.In order to develop your knowledge of dance theory, you will study Rambert Dance Company and related Contemporary Dance choreographers, for example; Christopher Bruce and the iconic masterpiece ‘Rooster’. You will also study American Jazz Dance and expand your critical engagement skills by exploring significant American Jazz works such as Gene Kelly’s ‘Singin’ in the Rain’, Bob Fosse’s ‘Sweet Charity’ and Jerome Robbins’ ‘West Side Story’.
Lessons take place in a large purpose-built dance studio with mirrors and sprung flooring, which demonstrates safe practice and offers a fantastic creative space for you.Practical lessons combine teacher-led technique sessions and student-led choreography, as well as opportunities to work with industry professionals. Theory lessons are interactive and incorporate a range of teaching and learning methods, such as group discussions, presentations, and workshops to enable students to study in a creative and holistic learning environment.Another significant part of your learning experience is to watch dance performances in live settings at well known venues such as; Sadler’s Wells, The Place, The Point, and The Mayflower. These experiences aim to enhance your learning experience, as well as developing and expanding relevant knowledge.
Component 1: Performance and Choreography (50%) – Performance in a Quartet – Group choreography – Solo performance.Component 2: Critical Engagement (50%) – 2.5 hour written examination.
Many of our dancers go on to further their training at specialist conservatoires for dance such as Laine, Bird College, Trinity Laban or university. We have many past students performing on cruise ships, teaching in schools, performing in the West End and running independent dance schools.
