The NZSD offers open technique classes in classical ballet and contemporary dance in conjunction with auditions for the Associate programme. Dancers are welcome to join the open classes, whether they are attending the Associate auditions or not.
Cost: $25.00 for one class, $45.00 for two.
Auckland, Wellesley Studios – Sunday 10th September 2023
Classical: 12.45 – 2.00pm
Contemporary: 2.15 – 3.30pm
The Associates Programme identifies ballet and contemporary dance students who have the talent for a career in dance performance.
A tiered structure sees students aged 13 – 17 (Years 9 -12 at secondary school) progressing through the programme as Junior, Intermediate and Senior Associates.
For 2024, Associates travel from throughout the country to the New Zealand School of Dance in Wellington for two weekends of tuition a year. In addition, one weekend in Term 1 will be held in Auckland and one weekend in Term 4 will be held in Christchurch. We are expecting the Associates to make a commitment to attending a minimum of three weekends out of the four.
Wellington Auditions
Saturday 9 September
Time: 1.15pm
Venue: Te Whaea: National Dance and Drama Centre
11 Hutchison Road, Newtown, Wellington 6021
For more information about the programme and application process, click below.
The Associates Programme identifies ballet and contemporary dance students who have the talent for a career in dance performance.
A tiered structure sees students aged 13 – 17 (Years 9 -12 at secondary school) progressing through the programme as Junior, Intermediate and Senior Associates.
For 2024, Associates travel from throughout the country to the New Zealand School of Dance in Wellington for two weekends of tuition a year. In addition, one weekend in Term 1 will be held in Auckland and one weekend in Term 4 will be held in Christchurch. We are expecting the Associates to make a commitment to attending a minimum of three weekends out of the four.
Christchurch Auditions
Sunday 3 September.
Time: TBC
Venue: NASDA E Block, 130 Madras Street, Christchurch 8011
For more information about the programme and application process, click below.
The NZSD offers open technique classes in classical ballet and contemporary dance in conjunction with auditions for the Associate programme. Dancers are welcome to join the open classes, whether they are attending the Associate auditions or not.
Cost: $25.00 for one class, $45.00 for two.
Christchurch, NASDA, Sunday 3rd September 2023
Classical: 2.15pm – 3.30pm
Contemporary: 3.45pm – 5.00pm
Pathways Talk (Livestream)- All about studying at NZSD
New Zealand School of Dance is a national institution, official School of the Royal New Zealand Ballet and centre of excellence for pre-professional dance training. The School remains committed to providing outstanding dance education and developing well-rounded dancers who can succeed at the highest level.
Those interested in full-time study at the New Zealand School of Dance are invited to join our LIVE PATHWAYS – an informal information-sharing talk hosted by NZSD Director, Garry Trinder and other senior faculty members, who will answer your questions about:
Date: Wednesday, 5 July
Time: 6.15 PM – 7.15 PM
* You will receive the link to our live stream once you submit your registration.
After a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19, earlier this month, the New Zealand School of Dance (NZSD) welcomed back a handful of international and Australian students. This includes students from Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland as well as the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand. With their return, the School is able to tap into a new wave of talent and creativity.
Since its founding in 1967, the NZSD has welcomed students from all over the world to take part in its renowned world-class training programme. Led by some of the most experienced and talented tutors, the School offers students the opportunity to major in either classical ballet or contemporary dance, while maintaining a strong grounding in both disciplines. Additionally, the School benefits from the diverse cultural perspectives that international students bring to their studies and the increased mobility of students and professionals across the Tasman Sea.
During the past two weeks, we were able to sit down and talk to the students about why they chose to join the NZSD. Many of them already knew that it was the right choice, as it had been highly recommended by graduates they know as well as their dance teachers. Others were drawn to the School due to its excellent reputation for providing a comprehensive and high-quality education in dance. They want to learn from the best and gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their dance career. They are committed to taking their abilities to the next level and are determined to make the most of their time at the School.
1st Year student Milly Maden decided to join the New Zealand School of Dance because of its reputation for promoting creativity, “The NZSD is very well-known for delivering a programme that develops and enhances one’s creativity. My dream is to come out and help shape the world of dance.”
With its unique location, the School provides students with the opportunity to experience New Zealand’s vibrant culture and dramatic landscape. Wellington is known for its creative and cultural heart, stunning scenery, and diverse population, with people from all around the world calling the city “home”. All these factors make the New Zealand School of Dance an ideal choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive and rewarding dance education.
NZSD 1st Year students Hannah and Janelle, both from Singapore, think of Wellington as a “breath of fresh air”, not only because of its weather but also due to the openness and kindness of the people. One of their favourite things is to watch the sky at night, “You can see the stars!”. This will be, without doubt, an all-round experience for our new students.
Although their dance training at the NZSD has just started, many students already have a clear vision for their future. Most of them aspire to dance professionally and also become choreographers. For example, Hannah, who has a strong passion for painting, envisages creating a show based on her artwork.
With the reopening of the borders, more students will be able to experience what makes the NZSD so special – a unique combination of technical excellence and creative exploration that fosters growth.
– NZSD
NZSD faculty provide insights from the School’s perspective and answer questions on:
As a national institution and the Official School of the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the New Zealand School of Dance remains committed to providing exceptional dance training and developing well-rounded dancers who can succeed at the highest level.
Click Here to Register
Wednesday 14 July, 18.15 pm – 19.15 pm
Te Whaea National Dance & Drama Centre, Newtown
Free to attend
Maximum 2 seats per booking
We begin every year with a pōwhiri to welcome new students and staff to our whānau. We welcomed Daniel Jaber, contemporary dance tutor, and the 1st Yr students on Wednesday the 29th of January. Here are photographs taken of the event.
We wish all our new and returning students and staff an invigorating, inspiring year ahead.
