NSW Public Schools State Dance Company
The State Dance Company provides a progression pathway for talented and high-potential dancers from NSW public schools in Years 4 to 12. Building on skills developed through school and regional ensemble participation, the company extends students identified as High Potential and Gifted in Dance (HPGE).
Students take part in four intensive workshops held in Sydney throughout the year, where they train, rehearse, and perform new works with peers from across the state. Through workshops and intensives with experienced industry tutors, students refine their technical, creative, and performance skills in a supportive and challenging environment.
This advanced, workshop-based program develops excellence in dance technique, composition, and performance. Learning experiences are aligned with syllabus outcomes and support artistic growth, collaboration, and creativity. Company members perform at the annual State Dance Festival and Schools Spectacular.
2026 applications are now open. Please complete the application form by Friday 3 April 2026.
Ensembles
- Primary – Years 4 to 6 – one company
- Senior – Years 7 to 12 – two companies
Enquiries
2026 schedule
Students train and rehearse dance works in Sydney in preparation for performing at the NSW public schools State Dance Festival in September and the Schools Spectacular in November.
- Intensive 1 – Thursday 21 and Friday 22 May 2026 at Tanya Pearson Academy, St Leonards
Comprehensive styles-based workshop with various tutors and intensive choreographic tasks to develop their work for the State Dance Festival. - Intensive 2 – Monday 27 to Friday 31 July 2026 at Tanya Pearson Academy, St Leonards
Intensive choreographic tasks where students will rehearse their work to perform for the State Dance Festival. - Intensive 3 – Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 September at DUTI Studios, Newtown
Technical rehearsals for the State Dance Festival. - Intensive 4 – October/November 2026 @ Sydney Olympic Park
Rehearsals for the Schools Spectacular (dates TBC).
Performance opportunities
- NSW Public Schools State Dance Festival at the Seymour Centre – Thursday 17 and Friday 18 September 2026
- Schools Spectacular at Qudos Bank Arena – Friday 27 and Saturday 28 November 2026
- Additional opportunities throughout the year as they arise
Contact details
Should you have any queries, please contact [email protected]
All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the NSW Public Schools State Dance Company, please email [email protected] so that we can assist.
