International Summer School at The McDonald College Returns for Its 18th Year

The International Summer School (ISS) at The McDonald College is excited to announce its 18th annual summer program, set to run from Monday 13 January to Friday 17 January 17, 2025. This popular event continues to draw dance students from Australia and overseas, offering a unique opportunity to work with top names in the dance industry.

For the past 18 years, ISS has welcomed thousands of students, ages 7 to 20, to Sydney for a highly regarded summer intensive. This year, ISS2025 promises an exceptional experience with a diverse range of Australian and international dance masters.

Guest Faculty: This year’s lineup includes Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of The Royal Academy of Dance, London; Claire Calvert, First Soloist of The Royal Ballet, London; and Iohna Loots, former soloist at The Royal Ballet. They will be joined by returning experts such as Steve Rooks from Vassar College, New York, and Paul Boyd from the Queensland Ballet Academy.

Participants will benefit from a comprehensive five-day program, which includes classes and workshops tailored to their age and skill level. The curriculum covers various dance genres and techniques, including Classical Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Pointe Coaching, Boys’ Coaching, Repertoire, Musical Theatre (Juniors), Broadway Jazz, Acting for Ballet, Strength and Conditioning, and Introduction to Gyrotonic® Method.

The program is broken into three age groups: Junior (7-10), Senior (11-18), and Pre-Professional (15-20).

The Junior course offers daily classes in various dance styles and musical theatre, focusing on creativity, technique, and flexibility. The program fees are $599.

The Senior course emphasizes artistic and creative development through a range of classes including classical, contemporary, and conditioning. The program fees are $650.

The Pre-Professional course is designed for elite-level dancers. The course prepares participants for professional auditions by enhancing their technique and artistry under the guidance of renowned guest faculty.

Dance teachers are invited to observe the ISS2025 program on Wednesday, 15 January. The day, priced at $45, includes observation of the Senior and Pre-Professional Program and a discussion with the visiting faculty.

Spaces are limited, and early registration is encouraged to secure a place in the program. For more information and to register, please visit internationalsummerschool.com.au or contact 02 9752 0601.

The ISS2025 provides a valuable opportunity for dancers to advance their skills and connect with others in the dance community. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!

The McDonald College is known for its excellent education in the performing arts genres of ballet, dance, music and musical theatre. Its International Summer School offers top-notch training and development for young dancers.

ISS2025, Image credit McDonald College