The Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary Dance is designed both for students who have just completed vocational or undergraduate programmes, and also for those who already possess some professional experience, and are working as dance artists - as choreographers, teachers, or performers. The course offers a programme of considerable breadth and depth, giving students a context for their continuing training and development.
The Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary Dance is a one year, full-time, taught programme, serving as an important transition between the experience of training as a student and that of professional life. It is primarily a practical and creative programme offering an intensive experience to prepare for entry to the profession.
Programme Structure:
The programme has four main areas of specialisation. These are:
• Advanced Dance Studies
• Performance (as part of our touring company EDge, or as an apprentice with a leading British dance company)
• Choreography
• Dance Education & Training
During the three terms of specialised study, practical work is accompanied by theoretical and written projects. Research Lab is a compulsory core course, this multi- and inter-disciplinary course stimulates practice based research, linking theory with practice and giving students the insight and breadth of experience to place their practice in a wider context. Students also undertake a subsidiary course to support their chosen specialisation. Courses are available in a variety of practical and theoretical subjects. Normally these include Technique, Film, Improvisation, Projection in Performance, Design for Dance, Choreology and Somatics. Some subsidiary courses may involve specifically designed projects and assignments to support collaborations between students who are specialising in different areas of study. Students choosing to specialise in Performance can apply for EDge, the postgraduate performance company, or for the Apprentice Programme.
Assessment
Postgraduate students are assessed in different ways depending on the area of study. Types of assessment include presentations of practical work (studio or theatre based), written work, lecture demonstrations, and presentations of group projects. All assessments are supported by thorough written and verbal feedback and individual tutorials.
Performance opportunities
This will vary according to the specialisation chosen. EDge, the Postgraduate Performance Company, tours nationally and internationally, performing works by world-renowned choreographers. Students on the Apprenticeship scheme will have the opportunity to perform in a professional company, working alongside professional dancers. Choreography students show their work in the Robin Howard Dance Theatre as well as in studio and site-specific contexts.
MA Studies
Following these Postgraduate Diploma courses, students may undertake independent research projects (subject to proposal and a further term's study) leading to the award of Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance. All London Contemporary Dance School degrees are validated by the University of Kent.
View the application deadlines and audition dates