Want to train with Sydney Dance Company?

Sydney Dance Company (SDC) invites applications from Australian and New Zealand dancers wishing to take part in its Pre-Professional Year Program in 2019. SDC’s Pre-Professional Year (PPY) provides a unique opportunity for aspiring professional dancers aged 18-24 years to experience full-time training with the company. Driven by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela, SDC is at the forefront of contemporary dance in Australia and internationally. Being amongst this professional environment on a daily basis enables young dancers to cultivate an inquisitive mind and sophisticated movement.

Led by Course Director Linda Gamblin, PPY is designed as a one-year industry experience. Pre-professional dancers work with over 35 national and international contemporary choreographers and specialists each year offering a variety of unique movement philosophy and techniques. Having this vast amount of artists and educators share their knowledge and skills gives dancers an opportunity to work and collaborate with prominent members of the performing arts industry whilst refining and developing their technique and performance skills. Finding a variety of strategies to embrace the varied processes cultivates emotional intelligence and analytical thinking, while the focus on collaboration nourishes inclusiveness within the group and strengthens the efficacy of the individual. 

Dancers in PPY have the option to complete either a Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA50113) or an Advanced Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) (CUA60113) through an auspice arrangement with Australian Teachers of Dancing Limited (RTO 31624). This will depend on their previous training and qualifications obtained and can be discussed with the course coordinator during the enrolment process. Dancers may complete both the Diploma and Advanced Diploma over a two-year period in the SDC PPY program.

“Creating an environment that allows dancers to develop an understanding of their own individuality and creative expression, within the wider community, is intrinsic to the education outcomes of Sydney Dance Company. We look forward to supporting you in your development as an artist,” said Caroline Spence, director of education and outreach at SDC.

Many Pre-Professional Year graduates are currently employed in a range of companies or pursuing independent project opportunities.

PPY Course Director Linda Gamblin said,“I am excited to inspire young people through the exploration of dance while encouraging personal and professional development. I am passionate about uncovering the spirit of a group environment, allowing space to strengthen their authentic self.” 

PPY 2016 Graduate Maxine Carlisle shared, “Sydney Dance Company’s PPY course encouraged me to develop an intrinsic, self-reflexive attitude. A disposition that has given me the necessary tools to evolve as an artist – and a person – every day.”

Applications are 
open to Australian and New Zealand citizens (or permanent residents) through Monday, August 27. This online application process includes a video submission, making it the first round of PPY auditions. Successful first round applicants will be invited to a second round in-person audition at Sydney Dance Company Studios (located at 385 Wattle Street, Ultimo, NSW, 2007) on Monday, September 17 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. 

For more information on applying, visit 2019 Pre-Professional Year Audition Application. 

SDC Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela said,“Sydney Dance Company’s Pre-Professional Year is an outstanding opportunity for aspiring dancers to gain exposure to Australia’s leading contemporary dance company. Pre-professional dancers will develop all the skills essential for a lifelong career in contemporary dance as well as being provided with unique professional development, networking and mentorship opportunities under the guidance of the artistic staff of Sydney Dance Company.”

For more information, visit www.sydneydancecompany.com. Watch the Sydney Dance Company 2019 Pre-Professional Year Trailer below.

Photo courtesy of SDC.