This course is designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Developing Artists who may have no prior dance or cultural training. A selection of these Developing Artists come from a low social economic background who may have traditionally disengaged in formal learning.
The term ‘Dance Practice’ in the course title refers to ‘practice’ in the context of an embodied process whereby new knowledge and outcomes are brought about through interrogation of, and interaction with, material, physical, intellectual and sensual stimulus. Practice-oriented learning and teaching utilises an active and immersive whole of body engagement for critical enquiry through personal lived experience, and results in Developing Artists engaging professionally with cultural and mainstream dance industries.
This course is intended to provide Developing Artists with a range of applied knowledge and theoretical knowledge, skills and cultural Knowings across a range of dance genres from contemporary to cultural dance, while the primary intention of this course is to prepare young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Developing Artists, the majority of whom have minimal or no prior dance experience, to develop technical and performance skills in a range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Western dance genres which will prepare them to engage with cultural and mainstream dance industries, pursue further studies and /or gain employment as a teacher’s assistant in a culturally respectful and appropriate environment.
Developing Artists will also develop key critical, creative, technological and self–reflective skills which will enable them to engage fully in the broader national and international multi-disciplinary creative arts industries.
Upon completion of this course Developing Artists will be able to discuss their progression into other courses with NAISDA representatives, or engage in other arts or related courses, or work as an assistant to a dance or cultural teacher.