In conversation with Lisa Pavane and Emma Dowling

The Australian Ballet School has introduced a new Post Graduate Year.

Like so many dance students through 2020, those undertaking their studies at our most elite classical ballet institution, the Australian Ballet School, were not able to take their usual full and intense program of studies on site at the headquarters in Melbourne. Those in the graduate year (Level 8) were particularly affected. The final year is normally the crowning year of the students' studies, including the Australian Ballet's Regional Tour, and a graduation showcase at the State Theatre in Melbourne. Instead, the students spent a large part of the year taking classes via Zoom from home. 

In addition, if circumstances had been normal, the 2020 graduates would this year be establishing their professional careers, auditioning around Australia or heading off on that overseas audition trail. But again, this is not to be for many.

In recognition of their student's curtailed ambitions and plans, the ABS has developed a special training opportunity to support the students in 2021 - a Post-Graduate Year (PGY).

Offered exclusively to the Level 8 class of 2020, this optional PGY will provide training and performance opportunities in what is hoped will be a "Covid recovery year". The School will provide PGY students with classes, access to health and wellbeing services, and performance opportunities they missed last year, including the 2021 regional tour. Students will also have the flexibility to attend auditions and undertake professional opportunities.

Karen van Ulzen caught up with Lisa Pavane, the Artistic Director of the ABS, as well as graduate Emma Dowling (pictured below), to find out more about the PGY. See the video above.

 

 

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