ACADEMY DANCE GROUP
SpecialAnnouncement
New Zealand Academy Performance Dance Group
As mentioned on the previous page, this is an idea which evolved from discussions at Joint Meetings and at Executive for some time. Our idea is to create opportunities for our senior New Zealand Academy dancers to perform in a non-competitive environment for the purpose of promoting highland dancing and quality dance entertainment. Develop a repertoire of items which are innovative and inspiring both for the dancers and the viewing audiences which can be put together at short notice when opportunities arise.
At our July Meeting, Executive agreed that we invite Mrs Julie Hawke, Technical Reserve, to prepare a proposal to be available for presentation at the November Executive meeting on the establishment of an Academy Dance Group. An excellent detailed proposal was received and discussed fully. Following a few minor modifications, Executive agreed to proceed with the concept.
In the first instance, this would be for dancers from the 14 & over age group who have passed the Grade 5 examination. This would provide our senior dancers, not necessarily the top echelon, an opportunity to keep dancing.
The intention is to have auditions in both islands to coincide with the completion of Summer Schools in Auckland and Christchurch. Applicants unable to attend an audition, will be required to forward a DVD (requirements will be listed on an Application Form which will be posted on the website mid-December). Following the auditions and receipt of DVD’s, a selection process will be completed by a panel, comprising the Performance Dance Co-ordinator, Assistant Co-ordinator and an appointed member of Academy Executive.
Initially, there will be a group of 30 dancers in the main group and those not selected within that group would then be offered a position as a member of a regional group. The Regional Groups would be formed with an approved Regional Co-ordinator and would be sent music and notes for a dance sequence.
For the main group, there will be two choreographed pieces—one a traditional Highland Dance performed in full highland dress, and the second a more contemporary piece using Academy technique. It is also our hope that we have an original piece of music which could be used– this of course is still very much in the planning stage. A time-line will be posted on the website early in the new year which will identify when and how rehearsals will be held.
This is an exciting chance for the Academy to raise its public profile throughout New Zealand. It also creates new opportunities for our current dancers and teachers and brings highland dancing to the forefront of everyone.
See Downloads Page for the application form
