Centre for Advanced Training
“The intense training at the DanceEast CAT undoubtedly helped me develop as an ambitious and self-disciplined dancer. It has given me numerous opportunities to perform in spectacular venues alongside word-class choreographers."
CAT student
IS THE CAT FOR ME?
- I am between the ages of 10 and 16 years, or I will be on 1 September.
- I am enthusiastic about dance.
- I am highly motivated and eager to develop new skills.
- I believe I have potential within dance.
Welcome to the DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training, known as the CAT for short.
We provide high-quality dance training for young people aged 10-18 years. Based at the Jerwood DanceHouse on Ipswich’s Waterfront, our young dancers come from across the East of England, attending classes in Ipswich, Norwich and Cambridge. During their weekly training, CAT students will have classes in contemporary, ballet, hip hop dance, creative and health.
“I’m always learning something. There’s not been a session that I’ve not picked up something new or grown in a certain avenue.” – CAT student
The CAT is a non-residential programme for those who are ready to make a commitment to training in dance. During their time on the CAT, students have the opportunity to work with a variety of people, including professional dance artists and choreographers from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, as well as being prepared for professional dance training.
We encourage everyone to apply to join the programme, regardless of their previous dance experience. Everyone who applies, and is eligible, will be invited to a Stage One audition.
The DanceEast CAT is part of a national network supported by the Department for Education’s Music and Dance scheme. The National Centres for Advanced Training in Dance offers the highest quality dance training to young people across England. Find out more about the National CAT here.
BEFORE YOU APPLY
We want to give you an insight into what it is like to be part of the DanceEast CAT before you apply. We host a range of free events including Taster Days and Information Talks.
Find out more about the CAT before you apply…
Find Out MoreMEET THE TEAM
The DanceEast CAT students are taught by a team of highly skilled and inspirational tutors.
Students have the opportunity to work with musicians in their technique classes.
MEET THE TEAMALUMNI
Over the past 17 years, the DanceEast CAT has trained hundreds of talented young people, who are now working professionally across the performing arts sector.
Some have worked with companies, artists, performances and films such as:
- 2Faced Dance Company
- The Barbie Movie
- The BRIT Awards
- Disney
- Stopgap Dance Company
- James Cousins Company
- Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures
- Nickelodeon
- Northern Ballet, amongst others
SEE THE CAT IN ACTION
Watch videos of performances, interviews, classes, and more.
Watch on Vimeo
CAT Term Dates
Here you will find the CAT term dates and key events throughout the academic year.
Dates are here
