MayJun 2023
IN THIS ISSUE MayJun 2023 On Sale Now! Top Class | Callback | Australian Classical Challenge
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Meet Our Special Guest Artists Madison Ayton Soloist with the Moulin Rouge in Paris
This Royal Academy of Dance, 2016 Genée Bronze Medalist, began her journey of becoming a dancer at the Moulin Rouge in 2019 when she set out to pursue her passion for dance in the city of love. Despite being the youngest dancer in the establishment at 18 years old, Madison was determined to succeed and hold her own on the famous stage, earning her place among some of the most notable performers in the world.
“This audition was more interactive. The artistic director of the Moulin Rouge was there, and she would walk around the studio and give you little tips and corrections on things during the audition, which was good. You must have both sides of your cartwheels looking good because when you first come to Moulin, you start in the Cancan line. So that’s super important. Ballet training is also very good because the audition has ballet exercises. Showing your personality and performing in the audition will get you some bonus points because, at the end of the day, it’s entertainment, so there has to be excitement and artistic qualities when you’re dancing.”
Paula Steeds-Huston, Head of Contemporary Dance at the New Zealand School of Dance
Paula is celebrating 20 years at the School. Paula cares deeply about her students as dancers and professionals. She is passionate about assisting them in developing the tools to survive in society. She reminds us that young students do not often know the intricacy of life and navigating these challenges must be taught. What is important is that this course offers that knowledge, which sets it apart from the rest.
“I see improvisation as investigation. The investigation of different ways of moving, but most of all, investigation into oneself. This self-exploration can lead to the generation of material. Developing the skill to incorporate improvisation into choreography is valuable, as it allows for greater artistic range. In the first year of their qualification, students focus heavily on composition because is not just about creating someone who can put a work on the stage, but also, about creating someone who can be tasked on. This is what being a dancer is, it is the ability to offer their creative voice to the choreographer.”
William Motunuu, ED5 International graduate now performing in the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat!
William Motunuu has always had an unwavering belief in himself. He considered himself a superstar from a young age, and would remind his family of this daily. While some might say that he simply manifested his stardom, William would vehemently disagree, citing his tireless work ethic as the driving force behind his success. His journey began with his enrolment in ED5INTERNATIONAL at 21 – a relatively late start in the performing arts industry.
“My best advice is that, you are enough, and the industry has space for you. There’s no specific niche that you need to fit. If the industry doesn’t like it, someone will make room for it and the someone might also be YOU. I choose to pioneer this industry because it’s time for more POCs, especially Pasifika people, to come through. There is so much talent in our communities, yet so much fear that this career path is unattainable . Don’t doubt yourself. Silence all those negative thoughts and fears because success is what you make it.”
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Top Class DanceOn Tuesday, the 7th of March 2023, the prestigious Elisabeth Murdoch Hall at the Melbourne Recital Centre bore witness to an awe-inspiring event that brought to life the sheer beauty, energy and passion of dance. Top Class Dance 2023, a celebration of young dance talents from across Victoria, took the stage in two mesmerising shows at 10am and 2pm. The concert featured a diverse range of VCE and VET Dance styles, highlighting the remarkable artistry and talent of the young dancers as well as VCE Dance Technique and Composition solos. The showcase was compered by Chief Assessors, offering invaluable insights into the preparation for the VCE performance examinations. Part of the VCE Season of Excellence 2023, presented by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, Top Class Dance 2023 offered a glimpse into the exemplary skills and dedication of Victoria’s top-performing dance students. The event was a testament to the passion and hard work that these young dancers put into their art. Braelan Newman was among the other skilled dancers who performed his Technical and Composition solos at Top Class Dance. Braelan began training at The Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School in Year 9. Now in Year 11, his eyes light up when he talks about spending half of his school day dancing and how he has fallen in love with ballet all over again at VCASS. |
CallbackCallback is an annual event celebrating the outstanding talent of students who presented their work as part of the 2022 Higher School Certificate Dance Practical Examinations. It is a showcase of exemplary dance core and major study performances and compositions presented by students from across the State, across all school education sectors. The standard of performance exhibited at Callback is nothing short of exceptional. The students’ incredible ability to express their creativity through dance performances is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and passion for the art. Callback not only honours students’ hard work but also provides valuable insight into HSC Dance standards and outcomes for current and future dance students and teachers. The season comprises two matinee performances specifically designed for students. These performances provide not only an opportunity for young dance enthusiasts to enrich their understanding of dance and performance but also an opportunity for them to engage in discussion with the Supervisor of Marking. Such discussions offer invaluable information and feedback, bringing a new perspective to their dance studies and an opportunity to learn from professionals in the field. The Callback season also includes immensely popular HSC Dance workshops. These are designed to cater to the different needs of Years 11 and 12 Dance students; these practical course components are a treasure trove of knowledge and hands-on experience. Workshop participants are encouraged to attend an evening Callback performance to observe the practical workshop sessions’ content come to life on stage. Dancetrain spoke with the high achievers to find out about their creative process. |
Dancers HealthAchilles Tendinopathy Critically, there are several different types of achilles injuries – and each requires a slightly different approach. In fact, in dance its’ more common for pain in the achilles region to be coming from somewhere else! It is always better to consult your physiotherapist to help you in the management of achilles tendon pain. Katie Godwin is a Dance Physiotherapist with Kinetica Physiotherapy in Sydney and she talks us through some issues that can arise with our achilles. Katie Godwin, dance physiotherapist with Kinetica Physiotherapy in Sydney, NSW. Clam Physios and Pilates instructors often teach the Clam pre Pilates exercise to activate the lateral Gluteal and deep hip rotator muscles. It is often a preliminary exercise during rehab and can be an easy exercise for dancers to do to help improve the strength and control of their turnout muscles. Experienced physiotherapist, Susie Bond from Activate Dance Physiotherapy and Evolutions Pilates in Sydney gives us great advice on when and how to incorporate this beneficial exercise into our routines. |
CelebrationsAustralian Classical Challenge From February 24-26th, 2023, the dance community in Australia was abuzz with the much-awaited Australian Classical Challenge, a national dance competition that attracted top talents from across the country. Hosted at the SPCC Theatre in New South Wales, the competition places a special focus on classical dance performances, aiming to recognise and reward some of the most exquisite talents in Australia’s classical and contemporary scene. The judges, all seasoned professionals in the field of dance, had the unenviable task of determining the best, assessing and evaluating dance classes and performances. The standard of performance was exceptionally high, making it a fierce and challenging competition. However, amid the tough competition, each performer brought their unique flair and artistry to the stage, showcasing their impressive technical ability, creativity, and passion for dance. The energy and excitement in the air were palpable, making for an unforgettable competition atmosphere. The competition was a resounding success, and the dance community eagerly awaits the next edition of this exciting and rewarding competition. Camilo Ramos, Pre-Professional Program Coordinator at the Queensland Ballet Academy, judged the Senior Ballet category. When asked what inspired him about the competition, he responded, “New talents. I am quite used to the talent from Queensland. Coming here (Newcastle) and seeing how much talent there is, is impressive. You can see how good the training is behind these dancers. Well done, studios.” When offering insights into what these dancers could do to improve, he thought the level was there; however, artistry always grabs his attention. “You will always see someone that will stand out a little bit more for you, who performs better or did a better class. We could do a lot to improve our technique and artistry and become better dancers, which is what we work so hard for.” He advised the dancers to trust their teachers, enjoy every moment and make every performance special. Louise Deleur is the Founder and Artistic Director of BICD PRIX and Head of Contemporary Dance and Resident Choreographer at QBA. Louise judged the Senior Contemporary category. In terms of contemporary dance, Louise was impressed with the actual commitment, courage and movement the dancers showed in their solos and performances. Louise noted that when it came to classwork, “…there is a technique to contemporary dance, and I wasn’t necessarily seeing that in class. But what the other side of that is you see amazing courage and freedom in the movement. Technique placement, understanding what c- curves are and breathing with the movement was lacking. It’s great that they’re really courageous, but sometimes I feel like they need to reign it in a little bit and know the pathways.” When talking about what Louise has enjoyed most about working with these kids this year, she loved the dancer’s hunger. “Their determination towards movement is really, really great.” Royal Academy of Dance Australia Joan & Monica Halliday Awards, Isobel Anderson Awards Awards and Jacqueline Morland Awards. “As I anticipated, the standard of the the students of the Jacqueline Morland Awards was to be congratulated. All dancers through the RAD sections displayed purity, sensitivity, and also maturity and professionalism as the levels developed. A sense of artistry and individualism was abundant too. An inspiring event!” Lucinda Dunn OAM – Former Principal The Australian Ballet, Artistic Director, Tanya Pearson Academy adjudicated The Jacqueline Morland Awards. |