BalletBoyz, the internationally celebrated dance company, has opened applications for the fourth year of its hugely popular Dancer’s Course. Successful dancers will have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the young BalletBoyz company, representing the BalletBoyz ethos of excellence.
The course, which is delivered over three 10 week-terms on Saturdays and Sundays, is open to men and women from all backgrounds across the UK. Working closely with the BalletBoyz dancers, successful applicants will be coached and mentored by some of the leading teachers and choreographers working in dance today. Auditions will take place on Sunday 10 April, the deadline to apply is Friday 25 March.
Matthew Sandiford, a course director for the Dancer’s Course talks to the Dance Direct blog…
How did you come to be involved in the Dancer’s Course with BalletBoyz?
The BalletBoyz Dancer’s Course kicked off almost three years ago and I’d taught a few workshops during the first couple years. I was then offered the job as one of three directors for the course which would put me in charge alongside some other company members to shape and develop the course and its content. This is really exciting and I love working with a group and watching them grow within a year.
How important is it that BalletBoyz offers this professional platform for aspiring dancers to train further?
I think the course is a brilliant platform for dancers wanting to enter the professional world, wanting a bit more experience and exposure. The course allows the dancers to experience a real life company atmosphere as they are treated as professionals, training with and learning from so many different artists and choreographers whilst getting feedback throughout the year. Plus they get the opportunity to follow the main company so closely and to work with the current repertoire and dancers.
Have you always wanted to be on stage?
I’m not sure if I’d say I always wanted to be on stage but I’ve definitely always had an interest in the arts and theatre. The annual family pantomime when I was younger was probably where I found my fascination for the stage.
Where did you train and what was it like?
I trained at Trinity Laban Conservatoire in Greenwich and I absolutely loved my three years there! It’s such an incredible building dedicated to dance with fantastic facilities. There are so many students and tutors from all over the world sharing so much dance knowledge and training versatile dancers. I kind of miss it sometimes!
How did you come to be part of BalletBoyz?
I auditioned for BalletBoyz right at the end of my training. I was really keen to work with the company so applied for the audition. Headed off to the two day audition and was lucky enough to be offered a job. Absolute dream come true!
What is it like being on tour?
Touring is amazing. I think it’s my favourite part of the job. Getting to see so much of the world whilst doing what we love is great. Plus us dancers in the company are like a little family so it’s great to all go away together.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
My pre-show rituals consist of sit-ups, press ups and some eyes closed balancing to check in with my body. I always have a banana before a show and as a company we always come together, wish each other luck and just check in with how we’re all feeling.
What is ‘a day in the life’ like?
At the moment we’re in the studio in the middle of a creation. The day starts with company class at 10:30am, usually ballet or contemporary lead by our fabulous rehearsal director. Then it’s straight into rehearsing the current repertoire, then lunch. Then we continue with the creation and rehearsals until around 6pm. I finish off the day with a workout and a cool down.
What’s the best thing about dance?
There are too many great things about dance to pick just one best thing, but one of the best things about dance for me is to learn choreography, rehearse it to perfection and to then get it onto the stage with the lighting and an audience and to feel that adrenaline and buzz…that’s an awesome feeling!
What is your advice for an aspiring performer?
My advice for aspiring performers is to look after your body! You only get one body so take care, eat well and be safe. See and experience as many different types of dance, theatre and art as you can. Become a sponge and you’ll find your passion! Push yourself, stay humble and follow your heart.