Foundation Course in Dance & Theatre Performance

Introduction and Course Overview

This one year, full time, intensive course is a practical performance-based programme that aims to help those talented students who have the potential for full time vocational training, but have not achieved the necessary technical standard required for entry, or “late starters” who need further preparation or guidance. The course's success is reflected in the number of students securing places on vocational training programmes and university courses.

The course is designed to develop well-rounded young performers, offering students the opportunity to study and improve their technique through daily classes in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, singing, acing and musical theatre. In addition to the strong performance element, students will study contextual and historical studies, thus developing individual critical thinking.

Jacqui Ison Theatre Arts provides unparalleled dance and musical theatre training in an encouraging atmosphere, thus promoting personal growth and artistic self-expression. The course is for students who are aged 16+ years at the start of the course. All candidates must successfully pass the College audition for this programme, which is conducted by senior teachers to assess potential skills in dance, singing and drama, as well as suitability for a career in the theatre profession.

Through individual interview, personal qualities such as motivation, communication and flexibility are assessed, and career aspirations discussed. Students are notified of the audition date and procedure upon receipt of the completed application form and audition fee. Auditions are held throughout the year.

As well as core dance and musical theatre studies, students will also be coached in audition techniques in preparation for their vocational auditions. Areas covered include suitability of song, dance performance and monologue, together with interview techniques, photographs and CV preparation. Students will also study, through lectures, issues concerning personal, social and health education.

Contributing a wealth of knowledge to the College, the professional faculty is dedicated to dance and musical theatre education, whilst instilling invaluable qualities in students that extend beyond their dance training, such as self-confidence, respect, work ethic and a sense of tradition. Our teaching team has been carefully selected on the basis of their specialist skills and commitment to education.

Progression Routes to Vocational Qualifications

During the second term, students on the course will automatically have a free audition at Jacqui Ison Theatre Arts. Students will be given guidance on other suitable full time vocational colleges and universities and advice is given throughout the course.

Attendance Requirements

30 weeks of full time training over 3 terms.

Assessment

Termly assessments include observation, self and peer assessment, practical and theoretical assignments, genre specific assessments and evaluation of practical work.

Auditions and Audition Fee

Auditions are currently being held until July 2011 for the term commencing in September 2011.
Audition Fee: £36.00, inclusive of VAT, and non-refundable.

Course Fees

£4,950.00 for the year (inclusive of VAT), payable in two instalments. The first instalment is payable on the first day of the Autumn Term and the second instalment is due on the first day of the Spring Term.

Funding

Grants are not usually available, but you should contact your Local Education Authority for advice as you may qualify for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA). Further information on the EMA can be found at www.ema.dfes.gov.uk.

Foundation Course in Dance & Theatre Performance Application Form

Terms & Conditions