The training
NSCD’s technical training is renowned for being both rigorous and challenging. Daily contemporary and ballet technique classes enable students to develop their technical skills and artistic understanding in preparation for careers in professional dance performance. Over recent years the curriculum has been expanded to include Release-based techniques to complement the Graham and Cunningham technique training. This combination provides students with the versatility and breadth of experience required by many dance companies today.
Creative exploration and growth are central to the developing dance artist and so the study of choreography has always been a fundamental element of NSCD’s training programmes. The School’s approach to choreographic study evolved from the teachings of Nina Fonaroff who was guest tutor and creative consultant at the School from its foundation until her death in 2003. She was a great inspiration to students and staff alike.
Over recent years choreographic and creative study at NSCD has undergone significant expansion and development. Students are now offered additional opportunities to participate in a range of cross-arts projects involving collaborations with composers, filmmakers and visual artists.
NSCD’s student performances have always packed the School’s Riley Theatre – delighting audiences and critics alike. The distinctive performance abilities of dance artists trained at the School are developed through an intensive and varied performance programme which includes the creation of new work on students by visiting professional choreographers and regular opportunities for students to create and perform their own work.
Building on this strength in performance training, 2007 saw the launch of Verve - the School’s postgraduate performance company. Verve generally comprises 8-12 of the country’s most promising contemporary dance graduates and tours a programme of specially commissioned works throughout the UK and selected European cities.
In 2004, in partnership with Northern Ballet Theatre, NSCD established the Yorkshire Young Dancers Advanced Training Scheme (YYD). Funded by the DfES and designated as a Centre for Advanced Training, the Scheme offers young people with exceptional dance potential the opportunity to access intensive training activities. In order to provide the widest possible access to these opportunities, means-tested grants are available to assist with fees and YYD classes are available at satellite centres across the Yorkshire and Humber region.
