Auditions & Rehearsals

Auditions
How often does the National Youth Dance Theatre hold auditions?
Auditions are conducted annually, usually during term 3 or 4 for commencement in term 1 the following year. Alternate times can be arranged through your state office.
How do I arrange an audition?
Appointments for auditions are arranged by telephoning the state office. Students from 7 years of age are eligible to audition for a place.
What happens at the audition?
Students aged between 7-16 years of age attend an audition for a place in either Level 1, 2, or 3 of the Jazz programme. The audition will last approximately 20 minutes. Students are auditioned in a group (for confidence) and are not required to prepare a specific routine. They are given a series of exercises to demonstrate their understanding of rhythm, timing, technique, artistry and memory.
How do I know if my child is successful?
All Students are notified in writing of the outcome of the audition.
What do students wear to the audition?
Comfortable loose clothing, jazz shoes or track shoes. Dance wear is not required, but students should wear clothing that allows easy movement.

Rehearsals
What happens in rehearsals?
Students attend a weekly rehearsal, which offers training in the curriculum and includes preparation for performances. Each rehearsal involves students in a thorough warm up, exercises to develop technique and preparation of dance routines for the next performance. The rehearsal concludes with suitable cool down activities. Dancers are educated in safe dance practice. Parents are invited to attend an open rehearsal each term to view the teaching process.
How is progress monitored?
Student progress is monitored within the supportive environment of the rehearsal. Each dancer is assessed according to our curriculum. Technical development is assessed twice yearly and parents are furnished with a report in November. Progression to the next level is determined by each individual's development. Dancers at each level must work through several stages to be eligible to move to the next level.
Level 1 dancers aim to attain Bronze Ribbon and Bronze Seal
Level 2 dancers aim to attain Silver Ribbon and Silver Seal
Level 3 dancers aim to attain Gold Ribbon and Gold Seal
What is the parental commitment?
Level 1 & 2 students attend one rehearsal per week for one hour at the rehearsal centre of your choice.
Level 3 (all venues) rehearse with Ensemble (LEVEL 4) at a central location on Friday evenings
Level 1: rehearse between 6.00pm - 7.00pm
Level 2: rehearse between 7.15 pm - 8.15pm
Level 3: Friday evenings 6.00pm - 7.30pm
Ensemble: Friday evenings 6.00pm - 9.00pm
Are there additional rehearsal sessions?
All students attend a Performing Arts School (non residential - 3 day workshop) in close proximity to the rehearsal venue. The Performing Arts School is held during the June/July school holiday period. Attendance at 2 combined rehearsals prior to each concert. These rehearsals are held at a central metropolitan venue. Ensemble dancers are eligible to audition for place at the annual National Performing Arts School held in October.

Rehearsals are not conducted during School or Public holidays with the exception of the Performing Arts School.