I'm a dancer looking at dance gap year programs to explore and refine my skills before college. Has anyone participated in any dance-focused programs? I'd love to hear about your experiences and suggestions for programs that offer great learning opportunities.
Sure, dance-focused gap year programs can be an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and deepen your passion for dance. A few programs that have received positive feedback include the Broadway Dance Center (BDC) Training Program in NYC, the EDGE Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles, and dance companies in Europe like Gaga in Israel, Codarts in the Netherlands, and P.A.R.T.S. in Belgium.
The BDC Training Program provides serious dancers with rigorous training in various dance disciplines. It's in the heart of New York City, allowing you to immerse in the city's dance scene and potentially even perform in Broadway shows or music videos.
The EDGE Performing Arts Center offers a professional dance program that emphasizes training, mentoring, career guidance, and showcasing. They cover nearly every category of dance such as contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, and even stage presence.
As for the European options, Codarts is an international conservatoire in Rotterdam that offers world-class instruction in dance, where Gaga offers a rigorous one-year program in the unique Gaga movement language (born from the Batsheva Dance Company). Lastly, P.A.R.T.S. in Belgium is known for its detailed contemporary dance education with a high international reputation.
Each program has its own unique strengths so you should look into each of these programs and consider which type of dance you are most interested in. Remember to also consider the location, cost, and length of the program as well as researching reviews and testimonials from past participants to get a better idea of what each program offers.
Keep in mind, it's essential you focus on a program that not only provides excellent training but also aligns with your personal dance goals, whether that's broadening your dance vocabulary, preparing for a dance career, or simply growing as an artist.
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