Reaching Out

By Dr Linda Ashley

Outreach programmes are an integral part of dance company activities both here and overseas. In this article Dr Linda Ashley looks at the benefits of these activities with a focus on three major dance companies including Okareka Dance Company, Touch Compass Dance Company, and New Zealand Dance Company. 

All three companies welcome young dancers with a wide range of ability and experience including those with classical ballet training, high school dance education or experience in street dance. The aim of these programmes is for students to get a taste of full-time training and to inspire them to continue into tertiary training and enter into employment within the industry.

Students of these courses have found key benefits in the programmes in terms of furthering their knowledge and passion for the industry, building their confidence and getting out of their comfort zones. 

Read the full article (Iss. 38) Reaching Out