A future career on the stage is becoming more of a reality for young people in Port Macquarie with a new elite dance program being offered at Heritage Christian School.
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The Performing Arts Academy at Heritage Christian School aims to equip students with the training and discipline needed to pursue a career in dance while still providing them with their academic studies.
"The academy is open to all students at the school, regardless of the dance studio they attend in the community. They are able to continue their current dance training outside of school, with The Performing Arts Academy complimenting their training while they are at school," principal Geoff Brisby said.
The program allows students to have a balanced focus on both their school subjects and dance training.
"The program builds into their Record of School Achievement (RoSA) and Higher School Certificate (HSC). It links the two worlds together under the NSW Education Standards Authority," Mr Brisby said.
"Students are able to be taught by industry professionals in masterclasses during their school time. There are a number of dance programs out there, but this program aims to build industry connections as well as balancing school subjects and dance."
The program was first introduced at the school this year and currently there are five students who are attending the academy.
"We would be able to have a maximum number of 12 students attend the academy because it is an intense and unique training program," Mr Brisby said.
There are also around 20 industry professionals, including Broadway stars through to commercial dancers, choreographers, directors and classical ballerinas, that will mentor the students each week.
"The skills and experience that the students are given is quite unique and will give them a strong portfolio for their future career."
The academy allows students enrolled at Heritage Christian School to experience the program in Year 7 and 8 before they audition to be accepted into the academy from Year 9 to Year 12.
"There is a need for this type of dance training and experience in Port Macquarie. The program also allows students to stay at home while pursuing their dance training instead of having to move away," Mr Brisby said.
"I'm incredibly proud of the students attending the academy and the dedication they have to their school studies and dance training."
Locals can find out more about the Performing Arts Academy at Heritage Christian School by visiting their website or by contacting the school directly.
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