Choreographer, performer and freelance dance teacher Katie Pearson talks to IdeasMag about auditioning for pre-vocational dance training…
What can a young dancer do to make their application and audition stand out?
As long as the questions have been answered appropriately, and all relevant information given, the applicant will be offered an audition place based on their potential suitability.
It’s important to arrive in plenty of time to register and get ready. Wear clothing that allows the panel to see your body and how it moves. Colour will help you to stand out. Keep long hair tied back neatly and remove all jewellery.
Auditioning to study dance in college is, for most people, their first audition. What can they expect?
This can depend on the college or course, but usually you will be given a number to wear and placed in lines or groups. There may be two or more sections to the audition, [led] in different styles by different teachers.
You will be given a warm up, followed by a series of exercises to learn and then repeat. Then, there may be some travelling steps or sequences, a few exercises to assess flexibility and/or a physical examination, and an opportunity to improvise/freestyle or respond to a creative task.
What do you look for in an audition?
Most colleges will look for potential, the ability to watch, listen and take on board any physical or verbal instructions.
They will also be looking too see who you are as a dancer: the improvised/freestyle/creative section allows for your individuality and it’s your opportunity to show them anything else about you that you may feel you haven’t yet had the chance to express. It is not expected that you will understand everything, or get everything right.
What advice would you give in preparation for a dance audition?
I think it’s a good idea to get into some gentle stretching and cardio for a couple of weeks prior to the audition, so your body is as prepared as possible. You may like to try out a few dance classes in different styles – most colleges offer open evening classes or can advise on where you can go.
Dance auditions can be physically and mentally demanding, so the more you can experience before the big day, the more confident you will feel.
Is it possible to ask for feedback from your audition if you are unsuccessful?
Due to the number of people auditioning, most colleges will not be able to offer individual feedback. However it’s always worth contacting them with a request as you have nothing to lose by doing so.
How do you find out the best places to study dance at college level? What should you look for in choosing your college?
All the colleges have websites. Ask any current students you know about their thoughts and experiences. It may be possible to go in and watch classes or the end-of-year school show and graduation performances, to help give you an idea of what the college is about.
Choosing your college is a very personal thing, and I feel it’s a good idea to find a place suitable for your own needs rather than follow your friends. So have a think about what you would like to do after you have finished your training. Colleges usually cater for a particular path, although some allow you to discover your strengths and then specialise later on.
Any useful resources you would like to recommend?
The Dancing Times, Dance UK and London Dance all offer news, information and advice on all areas of dance. The Southbank Centre often has free workshops, performances, lectures and exhibitions.
If you're applying for dance company auditions, read some advice from Retina Dance Company's Filip Van Huffel.