Italia Conti Associates Guildford is a dance school and performing arts theatre located in Guildford, New Zealand. Founded in 1994, it is a part-time associate school of the renowned Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London. The school aims to provide excellent standards of training in all areas of the performing arts, catering to students between the ages of 3 and 17.
No audition is required for admission, as the school wishes to encourage participation in the arts for all abilities. Whether students are seeking recreation, physical and social development, or a serious step towards a long-term career in performing arts, the emphasis at Italia Conti Associates Guildford is on enjoyment and first-class training.
The school offers a wide range of classes throughout the week, including Ballet, Tap, Street, Musical Theatre, Acting, Singing, Jazz/Contemporary, and Modern dance. In the Acting classes, students will explore theatricality, performance techniques, stage and screen craft, and work with a variety of material and performance techniques.
Ballet classes focus on work ethic, class etiquette, perseverance, dedication, motivation, stamina, flexibility, and strength. It helps dancers grow and become disciplined, providing an understanding of good posture and developing technique that can be applied to all other forms of dance.
Jazz/Contemporary classes combine the technical aspects of dance, such as kicks, jumps, leaps, and turns, with the exploration of movement quality and dynamics. Led by experienced practitioners in a nurturing and safe environment, these classes allow students to fully connect with musicality and expression.
Modern dance classes at Italia Conti Associates Guildford aim to give dancers style and focus on core strength, posture, and technique. The school follows the ISTD syllabus and offers structured graded classes.
Tap classes are designed to develop rhythm, theatricality, timing, and the ability to express emotion and feeling through music. Students will explore technique, stagecraft, teamwork, and artistry, with a strong element of fun. The main aim of these classes is to grow students' self-confidence over time, enabling them to perform in front of others with ease.
In Musical Theatre classes, students work on the combined elements of dancing, singing, and acting to create exciting and believable performances. This unique offering at Italia Conti Associates Guildford allows students to build confidence by combining all three performance skills in production numbers from West End, Broadway Musicals, and films.
Singing classes at the school focus on group ensemble singing, with an exciting and varied repertoire from Musical Theatre, Pop, and Rock genres. As students' confidence and ability grow in the safe, friendly, and supportive classes, they will have the opportunity to sing solo if desired.
Lastly, Street dance classes encompass various styles, including Hip hop, House, Locking, Breaking, and Popping. These classes provide students of all dancing abilities with the opportunity to learn the latest street dance styles.
Italia Conti Associates Guildford prides itself on providing a high standard of training in a nurturing and supportive environment. The school aims to foster a love for the arts and help students develop their skills, confidence, and passion for performing.