Ballet Theatre Australia, located in South Melbourne, is a renowned ballet school that is dedicated to inspiring, nurturing, and guiding dancers of excellence. Under the direction of Ben Davis, a highly experienced and respected professional in the industry, the school aims to develop mature and professional individuals through meticulous technique, musicality, and artistry.
The faculty at Ballet Theatre Australia consists of a team of skilled and passionate instructors. Madeleine Eastoe, Natashakusen, Rachel Rawlins, Jayne Beddoe, and Jane Casson bring their expertise and knowledge to the students, ensuring that they receive top-notch training and guidance.
Ballet Theatre Australia offers two comprehensive programmes for aspiring dancers. The Junior Programme accepts students from the age of 13 and focuses on developing and nurturing the individual within a serious yet encouraging environment. With a strong emphasis on classical technique, students also have the opportunity to refine their style, develop an elegant demeanour, and adopt a professional attitude towards their training. In addition to the rigorous ballet curriculum, students also engage in repertoire, body conditioning, contemporary dance, and theatre makeup.
Junior students follow a four-day weekly schedule, all while balancing their academic studies through Virtual School Victoria (VSV).
The Senior Programme caters to students aged 16 to 21 and aims to extend their artistry while further refining their technical excellence. This programme prepares students to enter directly into a career with a professional ballet company. Like the Junior Programme, students in the Senior Programme have access to various performance opportunities and private coaching for national and international ballet competitions. Alongside an intensive ballet curriculum, seniors also immerse themselves in repertoire, pas de deux, body conditioning, contemporary dance, and theatre makeup.
They follow a five-day weekly schedule and continue their academic studies through VSV.
To gain admission to Ballet Theatre Australia's programmes, prospective students must audition. Auditions for the upcoming 2024 programmes are conducted via morning class at the school's studios in South Melbourne. Application forms can be downloaded from their website, and auditions can also be arranged for those unable to attend in person. Online audition reels are also accepted, and further details can be found on the application form.
At Ballet Theatre Australia, the success of their students is evident through their impressive alumni network. Dancers trained at the school have gone on to pursue successful careers in professional ballet companies worldwide. With alumni at companies such as The Australian Ballet, Teatrul de Balet Sibiu, San Francisco Ballet, and many more, it highlights the school's commitment to producing highly skilled and talented dancers.
Ballet Theatre Australia is a ballet school with a rich history and a strong commitment to excellence. Their dedication to nurturing and developing dancers ensures that each student receives the training and support needed to achieve their dreams in the world of ballet.