NSW Public Schools Sydney Dance Ensembles
The NSW Public Schools Sydney Dance Ensembles support talented students in Years 4 to 12 to develop their skills and experience in dance. Ensembles meet weekly for after-school rehearsals at the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE), Sydney Olympic Park. Participation is by audition and open to students enrolled in NSW public schools. The program provides students with a pathway to explore and extend their interest in dance within a supportive environment, training in works aligned to syllabus outcomes and gaining practical performance experience throughout the year.
On this page
Enquiries
Applications open
Applications for the 2026 Sydney Drama Ensembles are now open.
Applications close on Friday 13 February 2026.
Auditions
Auditions for the Sydney Dance Ensembles will be held at the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE), Sydney Olympic Park on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 February 2026. After applications close on Friday 13 February 2026, students will be notified of their allocated audition date via email.
Auditions will be conducted as a full-day workshop. Schools will be advised of participating students so that attendance can be recorded as School Business, in accordance with NSW Department of Education procedures.
Rehearsals
Students who are accepted will attend weekly rehearsals at the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE), Sydney Olympic Park from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Rehearsals will begin in the week of Monday 9 March 2026 and continue until the end of Term 3.
There are three ensembles in the Sydney Dance Ensembles program:
- Primary Dance Ensemble – Years 4 and 6 | Mondays 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Junior Dance Ensemble – Years 7 and 9 | Wednesdays 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Senior Dance Ensemble – Years 10 to 12 | Tuesdays 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Successful applicants must make a full commitment to the program.
Fees
$350 per year
The fee covers the cost of regular tutors and industry professionals for workshops, as well as costumes for ensemble performances. Students will need to pay for any travel or accommodation if needed. All prices include GST.
Performance opportunities
Sydney Dance Ensembles will participate in regional dance festivals across metropolitan Sydney. They will also audition for the State Dance Festival.