Junior Associates

The NZSD Junior Associate programme nurtures the next generation of New Zealand dancers. It 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.

The aim of the 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 Junior 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 Junior Associate Programme on their suitability for further training.

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

Costs

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

How to apply

Selection for the Junior Associate 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.

Audition details and application forms will be posted on this page when they are confirmed.

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.

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

Masterclasses

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

 

"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