Wellington Performing Arts Centre Tertiary Courses

COMMERCIAL DANCE

DIPLOMA IN PERFORMING ARTS - COMMERCIAL DANCE

A 2-year, full-time course designed to equip students with a high level of technical, artistic and interpretative skill in dance and to provide the opportunity for practical performing experience.

During the course of the year, students may be given the option of participating in an external jazz exam and attending some external dance seminars. As these are options, the cost is not included in the course fee and should be covered by the student personally.

In Year 2 the emphasis shifts to honing skills and the application of technique in rehearsal and performance. A variety of performance tasks and challenges will be set to develop the students’ versatility as performers.

It is anticipated that candidates will have had training in jazz dance, classical ballet, tap or contemporary dance. At least two years training in one or more of these styles will be required, unless the candidate is considered to have outstanding natural talent and potential.

Appraisal of candidates for course places will be by audition. Candidates should prepare two 2-minute solos in contrasting styles including one jazz solo. The process will include group workshop in ballet, tap and jazz, in order to appraise technical proficiency, flexibility, performance ability and physique type. There will also be an interview with the audition panel. Video material will be considered.

Specific attention will be given to: