specialisation choreography - the programme
The basic programme lays emphasis on ballet training, modern dance, jazz dance (jazz and trends), improvisation and composition. During the first year dance technical lessons are given at various levels. You can also follow a coaching programme.
During the basic programme you begin to rehearse repertoire by (guest) choreographers. The programme devotes special consideration to the health and well-being of the dancer in subjects that deal with physical aspects of the profession, for example fitness training and Pilates. In addition, there are classes in dance history, drama and general music education. The optional modules give you the opportunity of choosing subjects in which you want to expand your knowledge, for example extra lessons modern jazz, tango, Chi Neng Qigong, yoga or Pilates. You also learn to orientate yourself towards a dance career and the professional field. By participating in workshops you will learn skills that will serve you later on in your career, like passing on dance to others. During the first year, the propedeutic phase, your study progress will be gauged at three separate moments. You will conclude this phase with a propedeutic exam. Subsequently, you will receive written recommendation on the possible continuation of your study. This is a binding study advice.
SPECIALISATION CHOREOGRAPHY
The Bachelor of Dance programme, specialisation Choreography trains you to become an (aspirant) choreographer. The study programme is meant for dancers with at least two years professional training and an evident talent for choreography. For this specialisation a separate admission procedure applies.
The RDA was the first Dutch vocational dance training course to offer a choreography study at bachelor level. However, choreography is not a profession that everyone can aspire to. As a rule, choreographers develop out of an active dance career and/or via the ambition to express a personal dance language.
The RDA bachelor study programme might be regarded as the first orientation towards choreography in which you are closely supervised in developing your knowledge, skills, vision and insights. You will be offered a practical and theoretical package, so compiled as to leave you sufficient time and space to concentrate on acquiring practice in choreography.
During the technique lessons you train with the other students. In addition, you will follow special modules that relate to choreography and create your own productions with dancers from the academy. These productions will also be performed in theatres outside the school. The study programme offers you a wide selection of possibilities for shaping your own artistic development but demands a high degree of discipline and self-study. During this phase you will be coached by a supervisor and are encouraged to discuss your ideas and views with your fellow students.
The study comprises the following components:
- technical subjects: modern dance, ballet, improvisation, composition and repertoire;
- workshops: collage techniques, Life Forms, production management and lighting technique;
- theoretical subjects: methodology, Laban movement analysis, art history, art appreciation, music analysis, choreography analysis, concept development and dance and camera theory.
- choreography practice: an internship with a professional choreographer and the presentation of three own choreographies, of which one in conjunction with another art form.
As (aspirant) choreographer you will work with professional dance companies as well as ad hoc productions in the amateur circuit and the commercial sector. Relations maintained by the RDA with workshops and production companies like Dansateliers, Korzo Theatre and Lantaren/Venster, and with international dance ensembles and leading choreographers and teachers, form ideal stepping stones towards a professional career.
