Centre for Advanced Training

“The intense training at the DanceEast CAT undoubtedly helped me develop as an ambitious and self-disciplined dancer. It has given me numerous opportunities to perform in spectacular venues alongside word-class choreographers."
CAT student

IS THE CAT FOR ME?

I am between the ages of 10 and 16 years, or I will be on 1 September.
I am enthusiastic about dance.
I am highly motivated and eager to develop new skills.
I believe I have potential within dance.

Welcome to the DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training, known as the CAT for short.

We provide high-quality dance training for young people aged 10-18 years. Based at the Jerwood DanceHouse on Ipswich’s Waterfront, our young dancers come from across the East of England, attending classes in Ipswich, Norwich and Cambridge. During their weekly training, CAT students will have classes in contemporary, ballet, hip hop dance, creative and health.

“I’m always learning something. There’s not been a session that I’ve not picked up something new or grown in a certain avenue.” – CAT student

The CAT is a non-residential programme for those who are ready to make a commitment to training in dance. During their time on the CAT, students have the opportunity to work with a variety of people, including professional dance artists and choreographers from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, as well as being prepared for professional dance training.

We encourage everyone to apply to join the programme, regardless of their previous dance experience. Everyone who applies, and is eligible, will be invited to a Stage One audition.

The DanceEast CAT is part of a national network supported by the Department for Education’s Music and Dance scheme. The National Centres for Advanced Training in Dance offers the highest quality dance training to young people across England. Find out more about the National CAT here.

HOW DO I APPLY?

If you are enthusiastic about dance, are highly motivated and eager to develop new skills, and believe that you have potential within dance we want to hear from you!

Applications are accepted from young people across the East of England aged 10-16 years on 1 September. We encourage everyone who is interested in joining the CAT to apply to audition; you do not need to have previous dance experience; we look for potential!

The CAT auditions are designed to be accessible and fun for everyone.

LATE AUDITIONS

There is a final opportunity to audition and join the DanceEast CAT this academic year, starting in September 2025.

The Late Audition is for eligible young people aged 10-16 years who need to access a means-tested grant. The Late Audition includes creative and technique workshops and have been designed to be accessible and fun, regardless of your previous experience or ability.

The Late Auditions will take place at the Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1DW.

All auditions are free to attend.

If you interested in finding out more about the Centre for Advanced Training, please contact a member of the CAT team by emailing cat@danceeast.co.uk or calling 01473 295234.

More Info & Apply here

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Costs & Funding

HAVE SOME QUESTIONS?

MEET THE TEAM

The DanceEast CAT students are taught by a team of highly skilled and inspirational tutors.

Students have the opportunity to work with musicians in their technique classes.

MEET THE TEAM

ALUMNI

Over the past 17 years, the DanceEast CAT has trained hundreds of talented young people, who are now working professionally across the performing arts sector.

Some have worked with companies, artists, performances and films such as: