When most people think of LOWRY, they picture its iconic theatre stages or thought-provoking gallery spaces. But behind the scenes, something even more powerful is taking place: young lives are being transformed through dance.
LOWRY’s Centre for Advanced Training in Dance (CAT) offers a unique chance for young people across the North West to access world-class, pre-vocational dance training, no matter their background, experience level or circumstances.
With expert guidance, professional collaborations, and a focus on personal development, the CAT programme can be the first step in a life-changing creative journey.
We spoke to programme manager Sally Wyatt to find out what makes the scheme so special, and how young people can get involved.
What is LOWRY’s CAT?
Lowry Centre for Advanced Training in Dance, or CAT, is a part-time, pre-vocational course that gives young people from across the North West who have a passion for dance access to high-quality dance training tuition and creative opportunities outside of their academic studies.
The scheme supports each individual student to gain an important foundation in dance and provides them with the tools needed to reach their potential towards a sustainable and successful career in the profession.
LOWRY CAT offers weekly intensive training throughout the year in Contemporary Technique, Ballet Technique, Choreography and Health & Wellbeing. Dancers are offered the unique opportunity to work creatively to develop their artistic and creative skills with professional dance companies & artists such as Akram Khan Company, Studio Wayne McGregor, Phoenix Dance Theatre, Rambert Dance Company.
What are you looking for from young people who apply?
We are holding auditions for places on The Lowry CAT in June, and we will be looking closely at the potential of each student regardless of their previous dance experience and personal circumstances. We are looking for young people who demonstrate passion for and commitment to dance and who are open to challenge themselves out of their comfort zones.
How can they ask any questions they might have?
Anyone who has any questions or would like any more information can email [email protected]
Why are schemes like this so important?
Centres for Advanced Training help identify and assist children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education, enabling them, to proceed towards careers in music and dance.
Means testing grants are offered to eligible families, allowing access to training for those who might otherwise not have had the opportunity.
Where have young people progressed to after the course?
Alumni of the scheme have gone on to perform with companies such as Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Motionhouse, Southpaw Dance Company, Jasmin Vardimon 2, Disneyland Paris, Fallen Angels Dance Theatre; VERVE Graduate Dance Company and many more.
How would you persuade someone who was a bit nervous to take the plunge and apply?
Auditions can be a nerve-wracking experience even for the most seasoned of professional dancers. It is therefore important to recognise that your decision to attend has already demonstrated a strong sense of self-motivation and commitment.
The audition process is planned in order to assess true potential and ability rather than technical excellence.
The creative and choreographic elements of the audition will give you an opportunity to demonstrate this potential and it is important to note that every effort will be made to create a safe and relaxed environment in order that you can work to your maximum potential.
Find out more about LOWRY’s CAT dance training
If you’d like to find out more about LOWRY’s CAT training, please follow the link here
