pre-professional dance programmes

scholars programme

 

Rgistration for Scholars Programme Audition – 2013 intake is now closed. For applicants who are still interested in the programme, please email outreach@singaporedancetheatre.com.

 

Introduction

The Scholars Programme is a pre-professional training programme created especially for student dancers between the ages 13 -19 who are seriously considering the pursuit of a professional dance career. This elite programme will enable young Singaporean dancers to further realise their passion for dance and to guide them in pursuing their professional dance goals. At the same time, the programme aims to develop and groom the next generation of professional Singaporean dancers. 

Guided and taught by Artistic Director Janek Schergen together with selected faculty members, the course will provide students with a comprehensive training in ballet technique including pointe work, variations, contemporary dance and seminars, building them up to become well-rounded and versatile dancers.

Acceptance to this pre-professional programme will be by invitation or audition only. Auditions are held yearly in November. Additionally, students who are interested in the programme after the audition date can contact outreach@singaporedancetheatre.com to express your interest.

Interested students will be enrolled based on their ability, progression and written evaluations will be given every year for review and recommendation. We will also work with each student’s academic school with notice of involvement in the programme and request credit as part of the co-curricular activities.

The Scholars Programme is partially funded by SDT, with support from the National Arts Council.

“The training to prepare a dancer to professional level status is a serious undertaking for not just the student, but also for the family and the teachers involved. It requires commitment, focus and sustained effort from all concerned. We are not just training the body, but also the mind, as well as shaping the personality. This programme centres around turning an interest into a reality.” – Artistic Director Janek Schergen

 

Curriculum

SDT Scholars programme will be guided and taught by Artistic Director Janek Schergen and a faculty of professional dancers and teachers. Course content will consist of ballet techniques (men and women), pointe work and variations and contemporary dance. Classes will be held at the SDT Founder’s Studio every Monday to Friday from 5.45pm – 8pm, with breaks for school holidays as well as for exam periods.
As the Scholars course is pre-professional, there is an expectation that a student may typically take 3-4 years in this programme before they can achieve the necessary technical accomplishment and artistic development needed to join a professional dance company.

 

 

Tuition Fees

S$3,000 per year
Successful applicants will receive a partial scholarship funding of up to 50% from SDT
Tuition fees can be made in 3 payments

 

Age Eligibility

13 to 19 years (students above the age of 19 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

 

Requirements

Intermediate/ advanced ability in ballet technique (pointe work required)

 

Important Dates and Attendance

Programme Commencement Date: 8 January 2013
Term Breaks: June and December

Scholars are expected to fulfil at least 90% of their attendance at classes. Classes last for 44 Weeks in a year and scholars are entitled to an additional 18 days of leave for school and exam preparations.

 

Performance Opportunities

Scholars will also have the opportunity to perform on both the local and international stage. Past scholars have performed as Youth Dancers (Singapore) in Korea and Macau and at the annual Ballet Under the Stars. Scholars will be invited to audition for extra roles in SDT larger productions like Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty.

 

Contact

For additional info and other inquiries, please email outreach@singaporedancetheatre.com