Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble
Are you a passionate and talented dancer looking for an opportunity beyond what’s available at school?
The Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble is designed for dedicated young performers who want to refine their technique, expand their artistic expression, and collaborate with like minded dancers.
This is more than just a dance group; it’s an elite performance experience where students will be immersed in high level choreography, professional rehearsal settings, and the creative process of building a contemporary dance work.
Open to students in Years 4 to 6 from NSW Public Schools across Western NSW.
About the ensemble
Advanced training and technique development
Take your dancing to the next level with specialist choreographers and educators who will challenge and inspire you. Develop refined musicality, dynamic control, spatial awareness, and expressive artistry, skills that go far beyond what’s typically explored in a school setting.
Collaboration with like-minded dancers
Connect and create with other passionate young dancers from across Western NSW. Together, you’ll build trust, teamwork, and creativity, essential qualities that shape every outstanding performer.
Performance opportunities
Feel the thrill of the stage as you perform in a high calibre production at the Western NSW Dance Festival, with the chance to audition for the State Dance Festival, one of NSW’s most prestigious dance events.
Confidence and stage presence
Learn how to captivate audiences with confidence and authenticity. Develop your stagecraft, express yourself fearlessly through movement, and experience the power of performing as part of a united, expressive ensemble.
Pathway to future opportunities
The Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble is your springboard into the next level of dance, whether you’re aspiring to study dance further, join senior ensembles, or pursue professional performance opportunities. The experience you gain here will set you apart as a skilled and confident artist.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, grow as a dancer, and be part of something extraordinary, apply now to audition for the Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble!
How to apply
Applications closing date: Friday 20 February 2026 (Term 1 Week 4).
All applicants will be invited to attend the audition workshop.
Audition date: Monday 30 March 2026 (Term 1 Week 10)
Audition times: 9:30 am to 2 pm
Audition venue: Orana Heights Public School, Dubbo
For full details about the ensemble and how to apply, please visit the Western NSW Junior Dance Ensemble information site.
Workshop rehearsals
Ensemble members must be available for all of the following workshop rehearsal days:
Dates: Thursday 21 and Friday 22 May 2026 (Term 2 Week 5)
Times: 9:30 am to 2 pm
Venue: Orana Heights Public School, Dubbo
State Dance Festival rehearsal date (if selected): Monday 7 September (Term 3 Week 8)
Students in the ensemble will also need to be available to perform at the Western NSW Dance Festival:
- Western NSW Dance Festival – Dubbo Showcase: Monday 25 or Tuesday 26 May 2026 (Term 2 Week 6)
- Western NSW Dance Festival – Bathurst Showcase: Tuesday 16 or Wednesday 17 June 2026 (Term 2 Week 9)
Please note: students will only be required for one of the above dates for each of the showcases TBA.
Students must commit to the ensemble and attend all scheduled rehearsals for the entire length of time.
Students will be supervised by Department of Education staff at all times.
Western NSW Dance Ensembles – Dance Coordinating Teacher EOI
Applications are now closed.
The Arts Unit is seeking a motivated and experienced teacher to take on the role of Dance Coordinating Teacher for the following ensembles:
- Western NSW Senior Contemporary Dance Ensemble
- Western NSW Senior Musical Theatre Dance Ensemble
- Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble
This position plays a vital role in supporting (HPGE) students from across the region and ensuring the smooth running of key dance activities and events throughout the year.
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All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the Western NSW Junior Contemporary Dance Ensemble, please email [email protected] so that we can assist.
