Natalie Payne
“I had seen fellow dancers start at a much younger age, so I knew I had hard work to do, but was also glad I was mature and ready...”
I AM from Sydney. I was born in Denistone, but now my parents have moved to Mona Vale which is “home” for me now when I visit Australia.
I did my full-time training at the Conlan College of Classical Ballet. I had been attending high school at Marist Sisters College Woolwich previous to starting full-time. In Year 10 I began a transition stage where I did ballet at Conlan for three days a week, and two days at high school. When I started full-time at Conlan I then studied Year 11 through Sydney Distance Education high school. I had completed RAD exams up to Advanced Foundation with my previous dance school and went on to complete Advanced 1 and 2 while at Conlan.
The change to full-time was one for which I was very eager and ready. I had seen fellow dancers start at a much younger age, so I knew I had hard work to do, but I was also glad I was mature and ready for the commitment. The transition from three days a week to five also helped me feel not too overwhelmed and helped me keep track of my academics.
Some important benefits of my full-time study:
• Having professional teachers who had experience working in ballet companies overseas
• Intense training to help me improve my technique
• A nurturing environment with small class sizes to ensure individual attention
• Support and guidance with auditioning for my next step in my career
• Performance and stage experience – solos and troupes at eisteddfods.
After training at Conlan I was accepted into Houston Ballet Academy’s Summer Intensive in the US. Then I was accepted into the year-round program. I spent two years there and, upon graduating, received a contract with Milwaukee Ballet II. I danced with the MBII for two seasons. I was heavily involved in Education Outreach programs and had many opportunities to perform with the professional company (Milwaukee Ballet). I then got a contract with a small touring company, but finished my contract at the end of June, and will be looking for another position.
To those looking at undertaking full-time study I would say: let your passion drive you. The hard work and sacrifice is worth it 100 percent when you are enjoying the training and improving with each day. Also, be patient with yourself and know that no journey is the same. Don’t compare your journey to other people’s. You’ll reach where you are meant to be when it is meant to be! musical theatre, partnering, business management, industry knowledge, choreography, fitness training, auditioning techniques.
Practical dance classes per week: 20-25 classes per week: approximately 40 hours.
Contact hours per day: 7 hours per day 5 days a week.
Pre-requisites/entry requirements: Certificate III & IV in Dance entry requirements: Pre-requisite for entry to this course is by audition/interview. Diploma of Musical Theatre entry requirements: Pre-requisite for entry is completion of Certificate IV in Dance or an audition or other form of evidence where the candidate demonstrates competence in vocal, dance and/or acting skills at Certificate IV level. Diploma of Dance (Elite Performance) entry requirements: Pre-requisite for entry is completion of Certificate IV in Dance or an audition or other form of evidence where the candidate demonstrates competence in vocal, dance and/or acting skills at Certificate IV level.
Main teachers: Trish Squire-Rogers, Katie Molan-Rappel, Stephen Wheat, Yvette Lee, Oleg Timursin, Michael Ralph, Bec Fairey, Darren Tyler, Troy Phillips, Vanessa Hill, Elly Creevey, Jared Bryan, Freya List, Hooman & Dalena, Anthony Pepe, Billie Casey-Jabore, Tyrone Anthony, Tracie Morley, Jack May, Adam Parson, Kristina Hardner, Will Jones and guest choreographers.
Audition date: Numerous auditions held throughout the year. Please contact ftc@spectrumdance.com.au
Audition requirements: Apply to Audition through:-website www.spectrumdance.com.au or email ftc@spectrumdance.com.au
Fees: Available on application
Scholarships or subsidies: Spectrum Dance is dedicated to the growth of its students. To support this we offer annual scholarships to foster excellence in the arts. Eligible candidates must exhibit exceptional talent, potential and commitment. Please contact ftc@spectrumdance.com.au for further information.
Possible career Graduates currently employed with musical theatre productions Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines; Celebrity Cruises’; Crystal Cruises’; Universal Studios; TVC campaigns; International Cabaret Clubs; Cheerleading; Corporate Entertainment, contemporary companies, children’s entertainment, choreographer, Disney contracts to name a few.
