Do you run casual or drop-in classes?
No, our classes run by enrolment only. We expect regular attendance from our students to maintain a high standard and enable us to work toward a professional annual concert. The majority of our students stay on for the entire year.
Can I enrol at any time of the year?
Yes, enrolments are accepted all year provided there are vacancies. The best time to enrol is Term 1 or Term 2. We caution that if you enrol during Term 3 or 4, it may be too late to participate in the annual concert in November, however we try our best to accommodate all late-starters.
Do you hold an annual registration/enrolment day for existing CentreStage students?
No. All existing students simply enrol for the year at their first class in Term 1. Be sure to collect a pink enrolment form and return it to us, signed, as soon as possible.
How are lesson fees calculated? Payment methods?
Fees are calculated by the term e.g. for a weekly ballet class, expect to pay 10 wks x $16.50 = $165 per term. Further details available on the timetable. Bills are sent out at the beginning of term and you have two weeks to finalise payment. Payment may be made by cash, cheque, or bank deposit.
Will I get a refund or deduction if I am absent from class?
No. If you are an enrolled student, you pay for a term’s fees in advance regardless of attendance. Exceptions may be made for cases involving serious illness, misadventure, or extended periods of overseas travel.
Can I trial a class before I commit to enrolment?
Yes, we offer a free trial class to most newcomers to CentreStage Academy. You do not need to buy the studio uniform or shoes for this class - just wear your own attire.
Enrolment fees? Costume fees?
Annual enrolment fee is $27.50 per student. Costume fees range from $66 for a 3-year-old, up to $120 for an adult size. Your costume is made to measure and it is yours to keep.
As a parent, may I stay inside and watch the class?
No. This is far too distracting and actually impedes your child’s progress. Parents are welcome to observe classes during Open Week, held annually in Term 3. For new students taking a free trial class we allow parents to stay inside (inconspicuously) for 10-15min before leaving the room.
Do students wear a uniform to class? Uniform prices?
Yes, although we are a little more relaxed with Senior classes (15 yrs to adult) and do not enforce a uniform for these students. Fees depend on the size of the uniform. CentreStage leotards, skirts, crossovers, singlets, t-shirts = $35-$45 per piece; CentreStage ¾ pants, full length pants = $49-65 per piece; CentreStage jackets = $55-80 per piece. Most younger students wear a leotard and skirt. Older students wear a singlet and pants.
Where do I purchase the uniform and shoes?
Clothing items are purchased from us at the studio. For shoes, we recommend North Shore Ballet Centre, Spring St Chatswood, or Bloch, Chatswood Westfield. We also have a collection of second-hand uniform and shoes for sale. If you wish to purchase shoes over the Internet be sure to check that you are buying leather shoes and not canvas. If your child is wearing incorrect footwear they will not be permitted to perform.
What are the total annual fees I should expect to pay?
• Term 1: lesson fees + annual enrolment fee + uniform (if applicable) + shoes (if applicable)
• Term 2: lesson fees + costume payment 1 of 2
• Term 3: lesson fees + costume payment 2 of 2 + ballet exam (if applicable)
• Term 4: lesson fees + concert tickets + concert DVD (optional)
For someone taking one 60min class per week, the total annual outlay including lesson & enrolment fees, uniform, shoes, costume, 2 concert tickets and a concert DVD is usually $1000-$1100.
What are the performance opportunities?
All students perform in the annual concert in November. Most students also perform in one community festival in September or October. Performance Group students have a more rigorous performance schedule as they are required to represent us in competitions and eisteddfod throughout the year.
Am I eligible for Performance Group?
Entry into Performance Group class is by invitation only. To be eligible for selection, students must be enrolled in at least 2 styles of dance, and show a commitment to improving their technical skills and flexibility.
What do you recommend for the serious dance student vs recreational?
Students intending to develop a solid technical foundation are advised to enrol in ballet and jazz, or ballet and tap. Note: To attend a performing arts high school eg. Newtown or McDonald College, candidates must demonstrate a proficiency in at least 2 styles of dance. The best styles for recreation/fun/fitness are jazz and hip hop.
Do you offer private lessons?
Private lessons are usually reserved for selected students preparing for competitions. However, upon request we can arrange private lessons at the rate of $80 per hour.
Do you offer adult classes?
Due to insufficient demand, we no longer offer dance classes for adults. However, if you are aged 18-30 and have had prior dance training of at least 5 years, you may be suitable for :
• Senior Tap - Wed 6-7pm
• Senior Jazz Performance Group - Wed 7-8:30pm
• Senior Contemporary - Thurs 7-8pm
• SeniorHip Hop Adv - Tues 6:15-7:30pm
• SeniorHip Hop Performance Group - Tues 7:30-8:30pm
The above classes are not drop-in classes. They require weekly attendance and term fee payments due in Week 2 of each term. The age range is a mixture of late teens to young adults. All student perform in the annual concert. Contact us if you would like to arrange a trial class.
For Adult Hip Hop Beginner or Advanced drop-in classes (pay as you attend), see the Monday classes at www.danceandmusic.com.au
Image courtesy of Philippe Penel Photography