The DanceEast Academy is now recruiting - *Free Open Days across the region this spring*

The DanceEast Academy offers young people aged 10 - 18, with exceptional potential in dance, the opportunity to access high quality dance training.

We are looking for enthusiastic, motivated young people with exceptional talent and potential who have an interest in pursuing dance as a career. No previous dance training is required, although experienced dancers are also welcome to apply.

Entrance onto the scheme is for young people aged between 10 and 15 from across the East of England. Participation is by application and a two-stage audition process.

The Academy provides classes in ballet; contemporary dance; body conditioning; fitness and dance health, as well as introducing students to choreography, dance history and appreciation, and other dance styles. This curriculum is informed by the latest research and knowledge, and the combination of classes is intended to give students a strong basic grounding in technique and creativity, to enable them to apply to a range of colleges with a broad set of relevant skills. Students also have the opportunity to work with professional dance artists and companies, and attend trips to see professional performances.

The course takes place at weekends, evenings and during school holidays, and every effort is made to encourage students to keep a healthy balance between academic work and dance training.

On Sundays the Academy is based in state of the art facilities at the Jerwood DanceHouse on the Ipswich waterfront. Mid-week classes take place in Ipswich, Norwich and Cambridge, and those living outside these areas may take mid-week classes closer to home.

Means-tested grant funding is available for all successful applicants through the DCSF Music and Dance Scheme. Additional financial support is available to grant holders to cover up to 100% of dancewear and travel costs.

Open Days for 2010 entry will be held across the region on the following dates:

• Colchester: Sat 13 March
• Bury St Edmunds: Sat 20 March
• Norwich: Sat 27 March
• Ipswich: Sat 10 April
• Ely: Sat 17 April

Open Days are free but places must be booked in advance.

To find out more please contact: DanceEast Academy on 01473 295230 academy@danceeast.co.uk