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CAT – How To Apply

We accept applications from young people in the East of England, aged between 10-16 years, from all backgrounds.
If you are enthusiastic about dance, are highly motivated and eager to develop new skills, and believe that you have exceptional talent and potential within dance we want to hear from you!

If you would like to join the DanceEast CAT you will need to attend an audition. The auditions are designed to be accessible and fun for everyone. We encourage everyone who is interested in joining the CAT to apply to audition; you do not need to have previous dance experience; we look for potential.

AUDITIONS

The audition deadline for September 2025 student intake has now passed.

DanceEast CAT auditions are held once a year, with the next round expected to be announced around March 2026.

In the meantime, you can find a summary of our usual audition process below.

AUDITION - WHAT TO EXPECT

There is a two-stage audition process for September entry.

All eligible young people aged 10-16 years on 1 September 2026 will be invited to a stage one audition. The stage one auditions include creative and technique workshops and have been designed to be accessible and fun, regardless of your previous experience.

Auditions will take place at the Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1DW on the below dates.

Everyone who applies, and is eligible, will be invited to attend a stage one audition. You will only need to attend one of the dates:

STAGE ONE AUDITIONS 2026 (dates not yet confirmed)

  • Saturday May 2026
  • Tuesday May 2026

Following the stage one audition, you may then be invited to attend a stage two audition.

STAGE TWO AUDITIONS 2026 (dates not yet confirmed)

  • Saturday June (Invite Only)
  • Sunday June (Invite Only)

All auditions are free to attend.

FIND OUT MORE

Attend a Taster Day and an Open Day

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 More