A great dance training opportunity for young people in the north west is being offered in Salford by the Lowry Centre for Advanced Training (CAT).
Two open days – on May 7 at Newbiggin Hall, Cumbria, and May 8 at the Lowry – will prepare applicants for the May 29 audition day for entry to the CAT scheme – part of a national programme funded by the Department of Education’s Music and Dance Scheme
Open to dancers aged 11-16, the course is an exceptional training opportunity for young people keen to pursue a dance career.
Centres for Advanced Training (CATs) exist to help identify and assist children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training within a balanced education.
The scheme's primary aim is to provide a strong foundation from which students can audition for professional conservatoires, whether as a performer, choreographer or otherwise.
Dancers are offered opportunities to develop their artistic understanding with professional companies such as Studio Wayne McGregor, Akram Khan Company, Vanhulle Dance Theatre, Phoenix Dance Theatre, Rambert Dance Company and others.
The programme has a strong track record, from which graduates have gone on to study dance at major UK conservatories and vocational schools, from London Contemporary Dance School to the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.
Others have performed with the likes of Matthew Bourne's New Adventures, Motionhouse, Southpaw Dance Company and even Disneyland Paris. Other graduates have set up their own dance companies, pursued careers in choreography, directing and teaching.