PVA Dance
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Program Overview
PVA Dance is a three-year enriched program designed for dancers interested in broadening their dance experience in a technically and artistically challenging environment. Students will develop technical skills necessary to create, perform and analyze dance and are encouraged to find personal expression and creative voice. Led by experienced professional dance educators, guest artists and choreographers, students participate in one dance class every day, covering a broad range of genres.
At the time of graduation, students will attain 48 credits in various dance courses. These courses include: Dance 15, Ballet 15, Jazz Dance 25, Contemporary Dance 25, Ballet 25, Jazz Dance 35, Contemporary Dance 35, Ballet 35, Dance Composition 35 and Leadership In the Arts 35. Within each course, students will study technique, history, composition, anatomy and music appreciation.
Through an auditioned process, students are placed in technically appropriate classes based on previous dance history and skill acquisition.
Within the PVA program, students are exposed to multi-disciplinary art forms and are encouraged to participate within the dance community, taking extra-curricular classes and attending dance performances. We recognize that our dancers are pursuing further training outside of school, for this reason, extra-curricular commitment is minimal.
To be considered for our specialized PVA program, students are required to apply online, interview with our staff, and audition.
The PVA application process is open for non-designated students between November 1 and March 15, each year. Students who are already designated to Central Memorial High School can apply to the PVA program at any time through the school-year, as long as there is still room in the program. Please email Learning Leader, Michelle Crimmins, for more information about the PVA Application process: mlcrimmins@cbe.ab.ca
Dance FAQ
- What happens during the Interview/Audition Process? There are two parts to the dance interview and audition process. The interview consists of a 10-minute conversation between our teachers and the PVA applicant accompanied by a parent/guardian. During that time, we look for passion and commitment to dance, as well as an understanding of what the demands of our program are and if you can meet them. It’s also beneficial for students and parents to ask questions and determine if we are a good fit for them as well!The second part of the process is the group audition. This process is meant to ensure that dancers have the skills needed for the PVA dance program. In September, students will be placed in appropriate classes based on previous dance history and skill acquisition.
- If I only have dance experience in one or two styles, can I still participate in PVA Dance? Dancers with a minimum of 3 years experience in one style that successfully complete the application process are welcome into the PVA Dance program. The program is designed to complement dancer’s previous training and introduce them to new genres.
- Does the PVA Dance program demand a lot of after-school time? We understand that a majority of our students are committed and dedicated to dance studios all over the city. Due to this, our performance and after-school demands are limited to the rehearsals and performances needed to run our Dance Central show in March. As with all high school courses, students can expect regular homework assignments to be assigned to meet curriculum demands.
- How many dance classes does a dancer take in a day? How many dance classes/courses does a dancer complete in the PVA Dance Program? Dancers participate in one dance class every day for each of their three years in the PVA Dance Program. Due to our enriched programming and the advanced level of our students, our dancers are able to navigate efficiently through a variety of dance curriculum. At the end of their three years, students will have covered the curriculum in the following courses: Dance 15, Ballet 15, Jazz Dance 25, Contemporary Dance 25, Ballet 25, Jazz Dance 35, Contemporary Dance 35, and Ballet 35. Students are required to enrol in Dance Composition 35 in either their grade 11 or grade 12 year, depending on their timetable.
- Can I still graduate with all my required courses for University acceptance if I go through the PVA program?The PVA program is created to work with high school diploma demands, not in lieu of them. All core and mandatory courses are timetabled along with a daily PVA course. Every student will have a different course load depending on interest and ability level. Our guidance counsellors and teachers work with our students to enrol them in the courses they choose.
- Q: I missed the group audition. Can I still apply?If dancers miss the group audition, there is a possibility to submit a late application. For the audition portion, dancers are to prepare a one-minute solo in a genre of their choice.