SUMMER PROGRAMMES Worldwide

For younger dancers between the ages of 8-11, some ballet programs offer junior intensives While these programs have the same goals as regular summer intensives, they are typically half-day sessions rather than full-day classes Junior intensives provide young dancers with the opportunity to receive high-quality instruction from experienced teachers, develop their skills, and build a foundation for future success in the world of ballet.

By Anagha Madhan

As temperatures rise and cotton clothes come out to play, summer intensives are what immediately come to mind to any dancer. Ballet summer intensives are demanding training courses that give aspiring dancers a rare chance to fully submerge themselves in the ballet world. These courses, which are typically offered in the summer, give students the opportunity to learn from top instructors and choreographers while also giving them the chance to perform in front of audiences. Young dancers' technique, stamina, and passion for ballet can all be honed by the intense training and concentration needed during summer intensives. Dancers have the opportunity to experience different cultures, make new friends, and learn from the best in the business thanks to the numerous renowned schools and companies that offer summer intensives all over the world.

While looking for summer intensives to take part in, there are a variety of programmes available to aid with skill development, learning new methods, and expanding knowledge of the art form However, in order to select the programme that best suits your needs, it is crucial to comprehend the distinctions between the different types of programmes Here is a basic rundown on what the different types of summer programmes available:

It's critical to understand your objectives, degree of commitment, and desired investment before considering a summer ballet or dance intensive There are many options for dance intensives that include different combinations of dance forms; character dancing, musical theatre and even body conditioning Typically, there will be a jazz or a contemporary lesson in a ballet-focused intensive, but the majority of classes will concentrate on improving ballet technique and knowledge

Professional dance companies, colleges, universities, and some neighbourhood dance studios may give dance intensives, which are accessible in or close to major cities The majority of college dance programmes' intensives also include housing for the dancers for the length of the programme

A dance intensive is an all-encompassing summer program designed to provide dancers with a highly immersive experience These programs may culminate in a performance to showcase the skills and techniques learned during the program, or a platform for dancers to present their studentchoreographed pieces to their home studio Typically, there are various classes and instructors available, and the program may require an audition due to their selectivityOn the other hand, dance camps are typically offered as day camps or overnight camps, providing a mix of traditional summer camp activities and dance classes These programs usually end with a performance to showcase the skills learned, and are typically designed for younger dancers under the age of 15 Dance camps are open to all dancers and can offer an excellent opportunity for students to not only enhance their dance skills but also make longlasting friendships and develop valuable life skills

Summer intensives can vary in duration from two to three days up to seven weeks, although the average length is typically one to two weeks Programs that extend beyond two weeks often provide housing options for dancers during their stay For dancers, multi-week programs that include housing provide an opportunity to experience the responsibility and discipline required for a potential future in dance on a more full-time basis Additionally, these programs may offer evening performances for dancers to watch, featuring the professionals who teach them during the day

When it comes to summer intensives, the application process can vary depending on the program More prestigious intensives, such as the Joffrey Ballet Intensive, require an audition as part of their application process, whereas others like the Australian Ballet Summer School may only require an application If you plan to attend a dance intensive at a local dance studio, there may not be an audition required

The audition process usually involves submitting letter(s) of recommendation from dance teachers and an audition video or attending an in-person audition that showcases the dancer's technique, improvisation skills, and ability to learn a short combination. Alternatively, the program may require the dancer to submit a video of themselves performing a choreographed piece. Regardless of the specific requirements, the audition process plays a critical role in determining whether a dancer is accepted into the summer intensive program.

Dancers of all abilities can gain many advantages from taking a ballet summer intensive. Here are a few benefits of enrolling in a summer intensive:

Intensive training: Summer intensives provide focused instruction over a period of time, enabling dancers to make rapid development Technique, physical fitness, and general performance capacity can all be improved through this immersive experience

Introduction to new styles: Dancers frequently have the chance to work with new teachers and encounter new dance forms during summer intensives Their experience may increase their understanding of dance and increase their adaptability as performers

Networking: Summer intensives bring together dancers from all locations and backgrounds, giving them the chance to interact with peers and business leaders Future partnerships and job possibilities may result from these contacts

Opportunities for performances: A lot of summer intensives provide possibilities for performances, which may give dancers significant exposure and experience Industry professionals may attend these performances, providing prospective job opportunities

Preparation for the next dance season: Building endurance, strength, and technique during summer intensives may help dancers get ready for the new dance season Students who want to audition for dance schools or companies in the year may find this to be of special use

Overall, participating in a ballet summer intensive can offer dancers who want to advance their abilities, broaden their knowledge, and interact with others in the dance community a distinctive and beneficial experience.

Some Of The Most Ballet Summer Intensives Available

THE AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE (ABT) SUMMER INTENSIVE USA

For dancers aged 12 to 22, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) five week Summer Intensive provides instruction in classical ballet technique as well as modern, character,andrepertoryprogrammes

Applications: An audition video or a participation in the in person audition tour is required Applications for the 2023 Intensive closed in February, so aspirants can look forwardandprepareforthe2024Intensive

Cost:Rs 31,300

Bolshoi Ballet Summer Programme

For dancers ages 10 to 20, the Bolshoi Ballet Academy Summer Intensive is a programme offered in Moscow, Russia Classes in character dance, variations, and classical ballet technique are all part of the programme, alongwithRussianlanguageandculturallessons

Applications:An audition video or a participation in the in person audition tour is required The seats for all female groups have been filled up, but applicants may choose to joinawaitlist Therearelimitedseatsformaledancers

Cost: Rs 2,19,535 - 4,16,501 (Options for housing, etc availableatextracosts)

Dancers ages 10 to 18 are welcome to enroll in this programme, which is the New York City Ballet's official five week summer programme Classes in variations, partnering, and character dance are also included in the curriculum, which emphasises on classical ballet technique

Applications: An audition video or a participation in the in person audition tour is required Applications for the 2023 Intensive closed in February, so aspirants can look forwardandprepareforthe2024Intensive

Cost: Rs 2,74,083 (Options for housing, etc available at extracosts)

For dancers aged 10 to 18, the Paris Opera Ballet School Summer School provides instruction in classical ballet technique, modern dance, and repertory Classes in character dance, partnering, and pointe work are also partoftheprogramme

Applications: An audition video or a participation in the in person audition tour is required Applications for the 2023 Intensive closed in February, so aspirants can look forwardandprepareforthe2024Intensive

Cost: Rs. 71,012 - Rs. 1,80,222 (Options for housing, etc. availableatextracosts)

Dancers ages 11 to 20 can enrol in the Royal Ballet School Summer Intensive, which provides instruction in both classical ballet technique and modern dance Pointe work, pas de deux, and variations lessons are also part of the programme The applicant can choose from either thetwo,three,orfiveweekintensives

Applications: An audition video or a participation in the in person audition tour is required Applications for the 2023 Intensive closed in February, so aspirants can look forwardandprepareforthe2024Intensive

Cost: Rs1,22,295 - Rs 1,81,404 (Options for housing, etc availableatextracosts)

For dancers ages 8 to 25, the Joffrey Ballet Academy Summer Intensive is a programme that is available in several US cities Classes in jazz, hip hop, modern dance, and classical ballet technique are all part of the programme Workshops in nutrition, injury prevention, and choreography are also available through the curriculum

Applications: Applications are still open and will be open till 7 days before the start of the programme An inpersonoravideoauditionisrequired

Cost: Rs 57,380 - 65,589 (Options for housing, etc availableatextracosts)