TRAINING PROGRAMS

Custom-made dance syllabus in two levels, to give our tiniest dancers the best possible introduction and foundations for the Junior Training Program
Highly structured classes (once weekly) with no more than 12 students per class, and a ratio of 1 teacher per 6 students
Optional class: Jazz Dance
1 hour/week

Ballet Conservatoire (BC) training and examination syllabus Body Conditioning classes to strengthen and stretch the young bodies, and to give the student a better understanding and awareness of their muscles and joints to prevent injury
Classical Coaching classes to refine technique and develop strength in classical work
Optional classes: Improvisation & Choreography, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance, Repertoire (ballet) & Stagecraft
2-9 hours per week

Ballet Conservatoire (BC) training and examination syllabus
International Character Dance Syllabus (ICDS) character dance syllabus
Open Classical Classes to develop the classical ballet technique and to challenge our dancers in terms of speed, agility, strength and ability to pick up combinations quickly
Demi-Pointe/Pointe classes to build lower-leg strength and develop strong foundations en Pointe
Body Conditioning classes to strengthen and stretch the growing bodies, and to give the student a better understanding and awareness of their bodies to prevent injury
Classical Coaching classes to refine technique and develop strength in classical work including pointe work
Optional classes: Improvisation & Choreography, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance, Repertoire (ballet) & Stagecraft
Eisteddfod solos & groups (by invitation only)
8-13 hours per week

Specialised coaching classes in Classical Ballet, and integration into our Full-time Program are provided in addition to the evening classes
Classes are recognised as an alternative to sport at the dancer’s academic school and are tailored around each student’s schedule

Ballet Conservatoire (BC) training and examination syllabus
International Character Dance Syllabus (ICDS) character dance syllabus
Open Classical Classes to develop the classical ballet technique and to challenge our dancers in terms of speed, agility, strength and ability to pick up combinations quickly
Pointe classes to develop strength and virtuosity en Pointe
Body Conditioning classes to strengthen and stretch the developing bodies, and to give the student a better understanding and awareness of their bodies to prevent injury
Classical Coaching classes to refine technique and develop strength in classical work including pointe work
Optional classes: Improvisation & Choreography, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance, Repertoire (ballet) & Stagecraft
Eisteddfod solos & groups (by invitation only)
Optional classes: Improvisation & Choreography, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance, Repertoire (ballet) & Stagecraft
8-15 hours per week

A comprehensive and intensive training program focusing on Classical and Contemporary dance, providing the necessary preparation for acceptance into an internationally recognised classical or contemporary dance institution
Classes in Classical Ballet (Vaganova, BC exams), Pointe, Repertoire, Pas de Deux, Repertoire & Stagecraft, Character Dance (ICDS syllabus), Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance, Improvisation & Choreography, Body Conditioning, Progressing Ballet Technique, Yoga, Cardio, Pilates
Eisteddfod Solos and Groups at local and international Competitions
Guidance, mentoring, coaching and preparation for audition DVDs and international audition tours
Schooling is completed through Cairns School of Distance Education
Including Nationally Recognised Certificate courses in partnership with Empowerdance Pty Ltd, RTO 40397
Approximately 30 hours per week

ABDA students are encouraged to audition/apply for the following interstate training programs, workshops and youth productions:
International Ballet/Contemporary Spring and Summer Schools such as: Royal Ballet School, Paris Opera, Princess Grace Academy, Bolshoi Academy, NZ School of Dance, Rambert School, American Ballet Theatre, School of American Ballet, Ailey School, Martha Graham, etc.
Australian Ballet School Interstate Training Program, Summer School & Master Classes
Queensland Ballet Academy Associate Program, Summer School & Master Classes
Transit Dance Interstate Training Program & Master Classes
Expressions Dance Company Master Classes & Holiday Programs
Sydney Dance Company Master Classes & Holidays Programs
Ballet Theatre Queensland
Approval is required from the Director before applying to any outside training programs, workshops or youth productions.

ABDA students are required to attend the following holiday programs:
ABDA Summer School – mid January (unless at the ABS or QB Summer School)
ABDA Examination workshop – June/July holidays (for students sitting BC examinations)