CAT – How To Apply
LATE AUDITION FOR FUNDED PLACES
SEPTEMBER 2025 ENTRY
We are holding a Late Audition on Saturday 27 Septemebr 2025 for September 2025 entry, specifically for those aged 10-16 who are eligible for a full or partially funded grant for the DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training (CAT).
These grants ensure that young people can enjoy high-quality dance training, exciting performance opportunities, workshops with professional companies and trips to the theatre. Grant holders can also claim funding to support travel and dancewear costs.
LATE AUDITIONS
Auditions are free to attend and are designed so that everyone can take part, regardless of dance experience. Please note that the CAT 2025 Late Audition is open for students who qualify for a Music and Dance Scheme (MDS) full or part grant, more information below.
Funded Places
Please note that we are opening our Late Audition for students who are able to access a full or part Music and Dance Scheme (MDS) Grant.
MDS Grants are available to those whose household income sit within the relevant income brackets below, featured on our website under Costs and Funding.
- MDS Full Grant (Relevant household income up to £34,037.12)
- MDS Grant Part Grant (Relevant household income between £34,037.13 – £74,883.12)
Please note, relevant household income is taxable income, and after deducting £2, 355 per dependent (including the child applying to the programme).
You can find further information here.
We will be holding auditions in June/July 2026 for September 2026 entry those interested in applying but are not currently eligible for a means-tested grant.
AUDITION - WHAT TO EXPECT
There is a one-stage audition process for September 2025 late entry onto the DanceEast CAT. Everyone who submits the application form, and is eligible, will take part in our Late Audition at the Jerwood DanceHouse (IP4 1DW).
Selected applicants will then be invited to join the DanceEast CAT, enrolling for the Autumn Term 2025.
You will take part in contemporary, ballet, and creative workshops. The audition will end with an informal chat with the CAT Tutors. This chat is so that we can find out more about you, why you’d like to join the CAT and hear about your experience of the audition. Please note that parents/carers must be available to attend these discussions also.
You do not need to prepare anything for the audition.
TIMELINE 2025
Monday 1 September
Applications open
Wednesday 24 September
Deadline to submit the audition application form, 10am
Saturday 27 September
Applicants will come to the Jerwood DanceHouse for the 2025 Late Audition. Outcome emails will be sent out by Tuesday 30 September.
Saturday 11 / Sunday 12 October
Successful application will start the DanceEast CAT.
