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Preparing for Dance Summer School at Italia Conti: What to Expect and How to Get Ready

Preparing for Dance Summer School: What to Expect and How to Get Ready
Preparing for Dance Summer School: What to Expect and How to Get Ready

If you’ve signed up for Summer School at Italia Conti, you might be wondering what to expect from this exciting experience. Attending Dance Summer School is an exciting and enriching experience, especially at a prestigious institution like Italia Conti. Whether you are a seasoned dancer or new to the art form, our Dance Summer School offers a unique opportunity to enhance your skills, meet like-minded individuals, and immerse yourself in the world of dance. Here’s what you can expect from the program and how we can help you best prepare for this incredible adventure.

What to Expect

Diverse Curriculum

At Italia Conti’s Dance Summer School, we boast a comprehensive curriculum that covers various dance styles, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. Expect to dive deep into technique classes, choreography sessions, and performance workshops. Each day will be filled with rigorous training designed to challenge and inspire you.

Dance Audition Practice

We will explore the requirements of an audition through various workshops, masterclasses, and projects to prepare you for auditions at dance conservatoires and institutions. Contemporary dance is a core audition discipline for dance courses. This module hones this discipline alongside audition practice, essential for preparing you as reflective and self-evaluative artists for further dance study.

Rehearsal & Performance

This module focuses on developing your rehearsal and performance skills, your ability to implement and synthesise dance skills, and your choreographic abilities. The module follows the rehearsal process through to the sharing of dance work and performance, helping to understand better the full scope of producing a dance piece from inception to stage.

Expert Instructors

You can learn from some of the industry’s top professionals. Our faculty includes experienced dancers, choreographers, and teachers with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Be prepared to receive valuable feedback and personalised attention that can significantly enhance your dance journey.

Performance Opportunities

One of the highlights of our Summer School programme is the chance to perform. Whether it’s an informal showcase or a final performance, these moments will allow you to demonstrate what you have learnt, gain stage experience, and build your confidence as a performer.

Collaborative Environment

Our Dance Summer School is not just about individual growth; it’s also about collaboration. You will work closely with fellow students in group projects and ensemble pieces. This collaborative environment fosters camaraderie and teaches you to learn from your peers.

How to Get Ready

Physical Preparation

Our Dance Summer School is physically demanding. Before the programme, you should ensure you are in good physical condition by incorporating regular exercise into your routine. Focus on building strength, flexibility, and stamina. Yoga, Pilates, and cardio workouts complement our dance training.

Packing Essentials

You should make a checklist of essential items to pack for our Summer School experience. This should include:

  • Dancewear: Leotards, tights, dance shoes for various styles (shoes or trainers that are suitable for dance (no Converse or similar fashion shoes that are not designed for dance), and comfortable tight practice clothing.
  • Accessories: Hair ties, knee pads, water bottle, and a dance bag. (no jewellery)
  • Personal Care: Towel, toiletries, and necessary medications.
  • Notebook and Pen: This is for taking notes during classes and workshops.

Research and Familiarise

Research the instructors and the dance styles you will be studying. Familiarise yourself with Italia Conti’s history and ethos. Watching videos or reading interviews can give insight into the teaching styles and expectations, helping you feel more prepared.

Health and Nutrition

Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated in the lead up to the programme. Eating nutritious foods will fuel your body for the active schedule ahead.

Rest and Recovery

Get plenty of rest before the programme starts. Proper sleep is crucial for your body to recover and perform at its best. Establish a regular sleep routine to ensure you are well-rested and ready to tackle the challenges of our Dance Summer School.

Embrace the Experience

Finally, embrace the experience with an open mind and a positive attitude. Dance Summer School at Italia Conti is a fantastic opportunity to grow as a dancer and individual. Be open to learning, take risks, and enjoy every moment of this transformative journey.

By preparing both physically and mentally, packing the right essentials, and embracing the collaborative environment, you’ll be set for a successful and enjoyable Summer School experience at Italia Conti. If you have any further questions, please do get in touch. Get ready to dance, learn, and create unforgettable memories!

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    - Sarah Collinge – Musical Theatre Performer Current Student, Class of July 2024
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    - Kate Drummond – Actor Current Student, Class of July 2024
  • Current Student, Class of July 2024
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    - Rachel Ward – Performing Arts Tutor Graduate, BA Top up Class of Sept 2022
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    - @ginamusaelyan2307 – Italia Conti Virtual
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    - @debbied3464 – Italia Conti Virtual
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    - @yellowbeachgirl – Italia Conti Virtual
  • I’m a dancer in LA and can’t keep up with my peers on how often they take dance classes. This channel has been so helpful for me to keep up my training. Thank you for sharing this with the world. I feel like we are all dancing together even though we are all doing this at different times and in different spaces. 🖤

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    - @annajones6805 – Italia Conti Virtual