Life at Central

Phoebe, Second Year

I chose to come to Central because I felt that the course they offered would enable me to become a varied, versatile dancer whilst also gaining an academic degree. London offers many opportunities to watch ballet and touring companies. We are also lucky that the school has direct links in the dance industry and we regularly have professionals in to watch or teach us.

Central has many committed dance teachers that have worked within the industry, who all bring such a depth of knowledge and passion to their students. I know that they are there to guide and support me in my journey, helping to make me the best dancer that I can be. We also get amazing support from the health and wellbeing team, the physios, strength and conditioning and therapy. We have such good facilities with modern studios. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to dance in them daily.

I have many highlights from my time at Central so far, but my favourite is the summer showcase at the Britten Theatre. Being able to perform for family, friends and dance professionals showing a wide variety of styles that we have learnt over the year was incredible. Working with the MA choreographers creating a new piece was also a great challenge.

Shiori, Third Year

The biggest reason why I chose Central is that it has a lot of precious opportunities and experiences to learn a wide range of dance from many different perspectives and perform in London, where I can experience art. There are various classes, such as ballet, contemporary, Spanish, Jazz, choreography and dance studies.

In school showcases and Ballet Central, we have chances to not only perform many styles of works but also work with amazing choreographers to create new pieces. Without these experiences, we cannot understand what is required of us to work in a company, and they will help me demonstrate the skills I need when I become a professional dancer.

In addition, it was an honour to have the wonderful opportunity to perform in English National Ballet’s Nutcracker and Giselle. I am grateful to the school and teachers for this opportunity and for making the connection with the ballet company. I learned a lot of important things and necessary skills to join a professional company.

Image by ASH Photography

Harvey, Third Year

Since starting 3rd year, I have been exposed to professional company environments such as the placement I did with Scottish Ballet for their production of Cinders. With the connections established between Central and Scottish, I perhaps wouldn’t have been given the amazing opportunity to rehearse and perform alongside the company, touring to 5 different cities and completing 61 shows. I gained valuable insight into how life in ballet companies works and learned many lessons that I will be taking with me for when I enter the industry myself. Since coming back to Central, I have already been able to apply what I learned at Scottish as I am required to pick up lots of choreography in a short space of time to be ready for the Ballet Central tour starting in May.

Image by ASH Photography