Ballet Creole Apprenticeship Program

The Ballet Creole School of Performing Arts offers a unique training program that serves to enrich and advance the dance and music arts in Canada. The School incorporates training in Modern dance and, primarily, training in the Dunham technique, a fusion of ballet and African/Caribbean stylized movements, developed by the internationally known dancer/choreographer Katherine Dunham. Ms Dunham's technique forges a cultural link between Africa and North America. Until now the Dunham technique was seldom practiced in Canada. It is a cornerstone for professional training offered through Ballet Creole.

As in traditional cultures, dance and music form an inseparable whole. Hence, training in the musical forms and styles relating to the dances, is crucial to a more complete understanding of the art.

Duration
The duration of participation within the program for students wishing to become Ballet Creole Company members, will be determined on an individual basis by the Artistic Director, based on the apprentice's level of proficiency and artistic growth.

The Training

Regular attendance at all professional dance classes and special workshops is expected in order for the apprentice to acquire and consolidate the training that is specific to the work presented by the Artistic Director of the company. Apprentices are also encouraged to attend the beginner level dance classes so as to establish a secure foundation on which to build the particular technique.

Performances

Upon reaching a certain level of proficiency, apprentices are expected to participate in performances as delineated by the Artistic Director. This will serve as training and development in the areas of professional performance and presentation techniques.

Whether to simply expand artistically or whether in doing so to become a Ballet Creole Company member, all students wishing to delve more deeply into this unique art form are invited to become participants in the Apprenticeship Program.