Perched in a commanding facility in Brisbane’s inner-city suburb of Kelvin Grove, you’ll find the Queensland Ballet Academy. Peek inside this impressive facility on a weekday afternoon, and you’ll see the studios humming with the Academy’s youngest students from its Foundation Program.
Established in 2021, this after-school program is designed for students in Years 3-6 from around Brisbane. Emerging dancers come and train with the Academy’s esteemed faculty across the four terms of the school calendar year.
The primary focus of the program is to provide formative ballet tuition across three levels, and to instil a love and respect for the beautiful artform of ballet.
Queensland Ballet Academy Director Christian Tátchev says it’s exciting to be able to identify potential at an early age, because the Academy offers a 10-year training pathway that prepares students for a professional career.
“Our Academy faculty offers outstanding training, and also guides young dancers with a focus on safe dance practice and wellbeing,” he says.
After-school ballet program inspires emerging ballet dancers
Families agree the Queensland Ballet Academy offers a unique and inspiring program.
Kylie’s eight-year-old daughter is a student in the Foundation Program.
“Maddie desperately wanted to audition for the Foundation Program as soon as she was old enough,” Kylie says.
Both Kylie and her daughter have found the Academy staff friendly and supportive.
“Maddie loves being part of a small and supportive cohort, making friends, learning new skills and challenging herself,” Kylie says. “Not only has it enhanced her love of dance, but I’ve also noticed a positive difference in focus on her schoolwork.”
Benefits to being part of the Queensland Ballet Academy
Obviously, being part of Queensland Ballet has it’s perks too. Academy students get the opportunity to audition for roles in Company productions. They also become part of the Queensland Ballet’s Junior Friends membership program, and attend other events where they can attend and meet other aspiring young dancers.
Prior dance or ballet experience is beneficial, but not essential. The Academy welcomes boys and girls who may have anywhere from a fledgling curiosity to an avid interest in dance.
Registrations are now open for students to audition for the Foundation Program, Semester 1, 2023 intake.
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