Course Details
The Performers course is a three year full time professional dancers course leading to The Performers College Diploma and The National Diploma for Professional Dance (Musical Theatre) and can include optional Associate ISTD teacher training. Subject to accredited prior learning, the length of the course may be adjusted.
The first year
Serves as an introduction to the various core subjects by providing a thorough grounding in technique and a theoretical understanding of the subject matter. Within the training, the foundation year aims to establish an awareness of a "dancers life style" for the purpose of developing a healthy, thinking, able dancer capable of further training in pursuit of a professional career. Continual assessments are made throughout the course to monitor progress. Subjects may include Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Singing, Music Theory, Drama, Anatomy & Physiology, Gymnastics, Health & Safety, and Pilates (Body conditioning).
The second year
Builds on the core subjects with emphasis on further strengthening and broadening technique, encouraging an analytical and artistic approach to the practical and theoretical work in preparation for the graduating year. Potential and ability will be closely monitored as these will determine, along with the intended career, the area of study to be undertaken in the final year. In addition to the subjects already being studied, students will begin developing professional employment skills this year. Subjects may include those taken in the foundation year with optional ISTD teaching examinations. Auditions for the highly regarded Performers Vocal Group are held during this second year.
The graduate year
Serves as a specialised year and will focus on developing and establishing the individuals skills and abilities which have dominated the first and second year. For specialisation to occur, a career path would need to have been established prior to commencement. A study program relevant to the acquired skills and intended profession will then be followed. The graduate year will include the opportunity to perform professionally as a member of the Performers Dance Company which may include a variety of media. Members of the Dance Company have appeared on television in Germany, Sweden, Holland and the UK, and theatre venues including The London Palladium, Her Majesty's Theatre, The Royal Albert Hall, Hyde Park (In Concert), Wembley Stadium and The Rij Stadium (Holland). A feature of this third year is the highly successful annual summer production which is performed in a major theatre. This acts as a showcase for agents, directors and choreographers and the graduates often perform to a capacity audience!
