Performing in front of an audience is an important part of dance training. It aids in building confidence, learning to manage pressure, improving stage presence and advancing the techniques learned in dance class.
Canterbury Academy of Dance students have the opportunity to take part in various live performances and events throughout the year including our:
- Mid-Year Recital
- End of Year Recital
- Occasional bonus performances e.g. Halloween show
- Competitions
- Exams
Mid-Year Recital
Our Mid Year performance is a fairly informal production centred around getting everyone up on stage and having a great time. Students perform in class groups with dances designed to showcase the children’s work from the first half of the year.
End Of Year Recital
Our much-anticipated End of Year Recital is an exciting opportunity for all students to showcase their skills in front of family and friends. The theme of the recital changes each year with previous years having included The Nutcracker, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, and Coppelia.
During the lead up to the End of Year Recital an extra level of commitment is required not only from students but also parents in order to ensure the success of the show. There may be extra lessons and rehearsals, along with the requirement for volunteer backstage help from parents.
If you are interested in helping backstage please don’t hesitate to let us know – this is a lovely opportunity to share in this experience with your son or daughter.
Competitions
At Canterbury Academy of Dance students are given the opportunity to take part in dance various competitions held around the country. This may include a solo, duo, trio or team performance. Dance competitions are a great way to gain on-stage performance experience, build relationships with students from other dance studios, be inspired by the talents of their peers and encourage a competitive spirit within the industry.
Selection for competitions is at the discretion of the Canterbury Academy of Dance and requires a certain level of technique and artistic proficiency. There will be extra time commitments and costs involved in attending competitions as well as the need for students to commit to practicing at home. If your child is interested in taking part in at competition level please speak to your teacher.
Exams
Eligible students are able to take part in yearly dance exams. These exams are assessed against either the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus or the Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) syllabus. These organisations hold a high standard for technique and artistry and ensure our dancers are working at a high standard.
While exams are offered to all our students from the age of 5, there are some eligibility requirements. Students need to show a good level of dedication by showing up and working hard in class, some classes must attend two or more lessons per week, and all students must demonstrate a technical and artistic standards set by the teacher prior to entry.
