The Head of Dance has the specific goal of exposing as many students to Dance as possible.  “I want to develop a vibrant, healthy, and diverse community of students who experience dance in many styles.  I also want to provide a forum for gifted dancers to be exposed to a professional level of dance training, therefore preparing them for future professional training courses.  I am passionate about offering education and outlets for students to learn more about their bodily, nutritional, health and fitness needs”.

 

 

DANCE OPTIONS AT HURTWOOD

There are currently 5 ways that students might experience dance at Hurtwood; Ability Streamed Group Classes, Enigma Dance Options, Open Specialist Workshops, Hurtwood Shows, and The Hurtwood Dance Company.

 

Ability Streamed Group Classes

Group classes are currently offered in Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary and Tap.  We also offer exercise classes in Pilates and Aerobics.  These classes are specifically catered to the student’s needs, and are streamed in levels of ability from complete beginner’s to the highly advanced.

 

Enigma Dance Options

Every week dance is offered as one of the Enigma options.  This is another open opportunity to dance, and is run on a signing-up ‘first come first served’ basis.  Current courses include the Come Dancing Latin and Ballroom Option, Hip-Hop and Commercial Dance, and Danceasize Aerobics.  Full details can be found in the Enigma related website area.

 

Open Specialist Workshops

We offer a range of options for being involved in dance which are open to all levels of experience.  These include exciting one-off workshops in various styles from Breakdancing and Hip-hop, to Charleston and Salsa!  These sessions are a great way to explore a variety of styles and movement.

 

Hurtwood Shows

Hurtwood produce 3 major shows each year, all with a strong emphasis on dance and choreography.  Often working with outside professional choreographers, the shows are a great way to experience dance at Hurtwood!

 

The Hurtwood Dance Company

For the experienced dancer The Dance Company is probably the most exciting opportunity at Hurtwood.  Each September we hold auditions for The Company, and only the most competent and committed dancers will be offered a place.  The competition for gaining a place is incredibly high.

Once a place is secured, we then begin an intensive training programme which will expose you to a professional level and pace, developing your stamina and technique.  It is a fantastic opportunity for Dance at Hurtwood, and is something which is offered completely free of charge by the school.  The only expense which should be expected is the purchase of suitable footwear and dancewear.

 

DANCE SCHOOL APPLICATIONS

We are committed to preparing students for the pressures and obstacles involved in applying for higher education dance courses.  With a wealth of experience in knowing what is expected at each stage, from choosing the right colleges, applications, and audition preparation, Hurtwood can make all the difference in this competitive process.  We liaise with the top dance colleges about what is expected, as well as bringing some of the leading departmental figures in for audition practice.

 

THE INTENSIVE DANCE TRAINING SUMMER COURSE

Be inspired by this seven-day residential dance course, an intensive introduction to a professional dancer’s training.  This is a great way for pending Hurtwood Students to experience Hurtwood life before the pressures of the actual first day.  The week is packed full of interesting discussions, specialist workshops and master classes.  The mornings consist of skill-based learning as you take classes in the various dance disciplines, while the afternoons will be used to rehearse for the final showcase performance.

 

CONTACT US

For more information about how dance operates at Hurtwood House, or for further information about the intensive summer course dates, please email the Head of Dance: matthew.atwell@hurtwood.net.  Alternatively you can call: 01483 279107.

 

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