Year 9 MAD Dance Academy

MAD Dance

As a member of the MAD Academy, students will work towards increasing their strength, flexibility, skills, and technical ability. They will gain a deeper understanding of specific dance vocabulary, musical theatre, choreographic intent and the elements of dance. Students will participate in a range of workshops focusing on skills and techniques of specific dance genres and improvisation. They will research and analyse movement material to gain an understanding of movement motifs, choreographic devices, form and expressive intention. Students will work independently and in small groups to create a composition representing a specific dance genre. Students will also cover a range of theory components including modern dance practioners, especially the work of Merce Cunningham. Students will be given a range of opportunities to represent the academy and perform at various school and community events. Throughout the year, students will set goals, which they will work towards achieving. They will be required to reflect on their progress by completing a journal at the end of their session and will also watch and evaluate their performance in class and on stage. Students will be required to undertake a practical and technique examination in Semester 1 and Semester 2.

An important aspect of the Academy program at The Lakes is the leadership component. The program is delivered at three different levels. Bronze Leader (Year 5 & 6), Silver Leader (7 & 8), and Gold Leader (Year 9). Our aim is to build our students' capabilities and develop their skills in the area of leadership. Students within the program will be exposed to leadership opportunities at school and within the local community. The students will be able to access the program via an e-book which will complement structured classes, community investment, project work and mentoring opportunities throughout their leadership journey from 5-9. We hope that once they have completed the program, they will continue to use their ability and commit to other leadership opportunities in the future beyond The Lakes.

MAD Dance Audition Process

Current members re-applying will undertake a practical examination and written examination on concepts covered within the program to indicate mastery of content.

New Applicants

Students will be asked to perform a piece which they have choreographed. It is recommended that the dance piece be approximately 2 minutes in length, demonstrating their strengths and passion for dance.

Year 8 students going into Year 9 MAD Dance will need to demonstrate:

• Creative use of the space including use of the different levels, shape and direction
• Creative timing and musicality
• A clear contrast between smooth and sharp movements
• Expressive intention and appropriate use of facial expressions and body language
• Specific dance genre clearly presented
• A variety of technical and controlled movements
• Intricate and challenging choreography
• Clear body isolations
• Excellent performance ethic

1. arrive on time
2. correctly groomed with appropriate dance attire
3. organised with music and choreography

Written Application

Selection into the program will be based on a written application, audition and interview.

This application is to be handed in by 9am Tuesday 15th August, 2017

Program Cost: $600 (approximately) including all school charges

• $200 deposit required by Friday 20th October, 2017
• Further payment of $100 due by Friday 1st December, 2017.
• Balance due by end of Term 1, 2018