AssociaTES

The New Zealand School of Dance Asssociates Programme (formerly Junior Associates) nurtures the next generation of New Zealand dancers

NZSD Associates programme, photograph by Stephen A'Court

The programme caters for a small number of exceptionally talented young students aged 13 - 16, who show a natural potential for classical and/or contemporary dance training.

New Zealand School of Dance Associate students, photographed by Stephen A'CourtThe aim of the Associates programme is to provide complementary training whilst pupils continue to study with their own dance teacher. It is intended for dancers considering fulltime training at the New Zealand School of Dance.

Classes are provided over four weekends a year for the Associates, who travel from all over New Zealand to participate in the programme. Special boys' technique classes are provided. Associates are appraised throughout the year by staff, teachers and the Head of the Associates Programme on their suitability for further training.

Where possible, the Associates enjoy an active relationship with the Royal New Zealand Ballet, including masterclasses with the Company when they are on tour. Additionally, Associates are offered a partial scholarship to attend the annual New Zealand School of Dance Winter School.

Costs

The NZSD Associates Programme is provided free of charge, however students must cover their own transport and accomodation costs.

How to apply

Selection for the Associates programme is by audition only. Auditions are held at Te Whaea National Dance & Drama Centre in Wellington each October for the following year's intake.

All students auditioning must be entering at least Year 9 at the beginning of the academic year.

N.B. Current Junior Associates do not need to re-audition for the programme, however those wishing to enter full-time training are required to attend the full-time audition.

Auditions for 2013 Associates programme

Christchurch Saturday 15 September 2012
Auckland Sunday 16 September 2012
Wellington Saturday 22 September 2012

Download an application (pdf document)

Applications must be received by Wednesday 29 August 2012.

For more information regarding the Associates programme email Christine Gunn or phone 04 381 9223

Masterclasses

The NZSD offers masterclasses in Christchurch and Auckland in conjunction with auditions for the Associates Programme.

New Zealand School of Dance Associate student

"As a Junior Associate for four years, the opportunities that were given to me through the programme helped my growth as a dancer, and made me realise that dance was what I wanted to do as a career. This made the transition between being a Junior Associate to fulltime training at the New Zealand School of Dance easy and exciting. Junior Associates is an excellent programme for young aspiring dancers and it was a privilege to be a part of the programme. "

Jessica Jefferies

Contemporary Dancer