WEBSITE
www.comdance.org
HISTORY
COMDANCE was founded in 1933.
The COMDANCE global community is made up of teachers and studios around the world who work as a global family. We operate in 14 countries which includes a very strong, dynamic, and enthusiastic member base throughout Southeast Asia.
At Comdance we provide strong technique and expression along with experiencing enjoyment in an encouraging and empowering environment.
DIRECTORS
President: Diane Gepp B.Ed.
STYLES COVERED
Classical Ballet, Modern Jazz, Theatrical and Performing Arts, Tap, Contemporary, Ballroom and Latin, Hip hop, Pre School program: Come Dance with Me.
GRADING SYSTEM
Early childhood to professional level in all disciplines, including teaching diplomas.
MARKING AND ASSESSMENT
Exams are held in all subjects. Students receive written reports and certificates, medals, or trophies. There are five levels of credit, from pass to honours plus. Both classroom and public exams are available.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Teachers who have a teachers’ diploma from the Society use the letters COMDANCE together with the distinguishing letters for the genre.
COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS
Born to Perform competitions are held by the Society in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The Melbourne competition will be held for the 82nd consecutive year in 2024. The event is open to all dance students, and each culminates in genre specific championships. Scholarships and cash prizes are offered in all the States.
Joanne Richards
Comdance Examiner.
What drew you to this syllabus/organisation?
I have been involved with Comdance as a student, a fully qualified Comdance Teacher, and now an Examiner for more than 25 years. I have studied other syllabi, however the theatrical, multi genre aspect of Comdance has remained the most rewarding. The society has always remained updated and relevant to the times introducing new and exciting syllabi, offering excellent workshops, and training for teachers along with events that individual studios can be involved in to connect to the Comdance dance community.
What do you enjoy about your job? - Examiner/Teacher
As a teacher I enjoy making a strong connection and giving guidance to my students while we work through the structured syllabi and technical knowledge. Understanding of movements/steps is also extremely important and then to give encouragement so they can achieve the best they can. The thrill of seeing your student persevere to perfect a difficult step, to gain confidence and develop their dedication is wonderful.
Transitioning into an Examiner role, we carry our teaching skills with us and now have the understanding and respect for the hard work that both the teacher and student has undergone. It is a privilege to watch students give 100% during their exam and know that by giving them the results they so deserve it will encourage them to keep perfecting their dance. I love that I see the student at their very finest, they are always beautifully groomed, presented in an immaculate uniform, watching them perform to their best and making certain I am delivering a warmth and expression of appreciation for their efforts. It is not difficult to make connection with the students as they are always so respectful. As a bonus, I travel to various countries throughout the world, it truly is very special!
What response do you receive from the children in exams?
Childrens responses can be quite mixed, you experience excitement, apprehension, and yes sometimes absolute fear. They are the brave ones and I love to make a connection with reassurance, a friendly chat, and a smile. Younger students are the quickest to connect with, they love to tell you what they will do after their dancing exam. As they advance in age you need to be able to read their body language – often they just want to get on with the dance! I so enjoy Teaching Certificate and Diploma examinations; this is when it is important to settle their nerves. During the time that students are in the exam room I will experience a little of their personality that will always make me smile so I can make them feel a little more relaxed to achieve their best.