SCHOLARSHIPS

 


AUDITION FOR FALL SCHOLARSHIP
August 17, 2009, 11:30am

 

FlyerImportant DatesApplication

 


TERMS:
Fall: September 1 – February 28
Spring: March 1 – June 30
Summer: July 1 – August 31

 

INFORMATION:
DeFore
Dance Center, 151 Kalmus St., Suite G-3, Costa Mesa, 714-241-9908
Scholarship Artistic Director:  Christine Baltes, 714-751-7554


History
The DeFore Dance Center’s (DDC) Scholarship program is one of a kind in
Orange County.  This program was developed in 1997 by Christine Baltes (see bio) to assist in preparing dancers for a career in dance.  Too date, many dancers graduating from the DDC scholarship program have been signed by leading dance agents and can be found performing on stage, television, music videos, movies, cruise lines, company work as well as teaching. 

 

The Program
There are 3 terms offered during the course of a calendar year.  We encourage each scholarship dancer to participate in the entire year to achieve the maximum benefit from a full year of intensive training.  The program includes dance (ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, turns), Pilates, teacher assisting, choreographing, teaching, and the business of dance (resume, cover letter, marketing video, opening a studio).  The scholarship artistic director works closely with each scholarship student to design a customized schedule to meet the needs of each individual.   As part of this educational program, each scholarship student is required to perform light desk duties along with support activities for the school.  Dance schedules are individually designed for each student and grow and change as progress is made. This program requires dedication, motivation, maturity, responsibility, and a DEEP PASSION FOR DANCE.  This is an unforgettable experience!

 

The Artistic & Financial Value
Financial: The estimated value of this program is worth hundreds of dollars. Maybe even thousands.  Each student physically participates in an average of 15-20 classes weekly. Specialty classes, assistant teaching, lecturers, and individual counseling are sometimes added to the scholarships weekly dance schedule.  There is a one-time tuition fee (averages approximately $75 a month) for each term.  This fee goes directly to the program and helps to defray educational and administrative expenses.  Additionally, there may be a small fee for professional headshots (hard copy, personal CD included) as a tool to begin auditioning upon graduation and/or promoting oneself in a career in the dance industry. 

Artistic:  A dancer comes to us wanting to fulfill a dream.  We help them with the reality of this dream.  The environment of this program gives the dancer the knowledge to fulfill this dream.  Character building, inspiration of creativity and personal growth are all traits that come with participating in the discipline of dance.

 

The Outcome
As a scholarship student, your life for the duration will be full-time dancing.  You will sharpen your strengths and overcome your weaknesses.  You will learn what things are and how they work.  You will gain knowledge of the world of dance and its many different opportunities, whether your interests lie in performing, teaching, choreographing or other related activities. This program helps establish career building relationships, mentors and to network.  In some situations, a program like this helps one decide on which avenue to pursue. The training offered is an experience of a lifetime.  

 

Performance Opportunities
During the Fall scholarship term the school hosts an evening of performances in January or February.  These performances are designed for the school to showcase its scholarship dancers along with faculty.  The level and capabilities of the scholarship dancer determines how much the individual will perform.  Faculty donates their time to work and set choreography on the scholarship dancer for this showcase.  Spring term hosts the schools recital with additional possibilities to perform in June. 

 

Scholarship Schedule
A scholarship dancer must be available weekday mornings, evenings, & weekends.  Must be between the ages of 16-30 and in good health to physically participate in this program.  This following schedule is provided ONLY as an EXAMPLE. Work and class times will vary.  Part time school and work schedules can be feasible. 

Monday

10-12 pm class, 5:30 – 9:30 pm class

Tuesday

10 – 12 pm class, 5:30 – 10:00 pm class

Wednesday

9-12 pm class, 7-9:30 pm classes

Thursday

9-1 pm work shift, 5:30 – 10:00 pm class

Friday

10 – 1 pm class, 5:30 – 7:30 pm class or evening off

Saturday

9-2:00 pm classes

Sunday

Off

 

Work shift Schedules
Mon. thru Fri.
9:00 – 1:00 pm, Mon, Tues, Thurs. 1-5pm, Sat. 7:30 – 9 am, Sun. 8:30-12:30pm.  Each scholarship recipient participates in one work shift & a Saturday rotation shift.  Although class schedules may vary, work shifts typically remain the same for entire term.  It is the job of the Scholarship Director to designate work shifts, day off and class schedule.

 

The Audition Process
Every applicant must pick up an Audition Package.  Applications are usually available two months before start of each term.  Those interested in auditioning must attend an orientation and have a personal interview before auditioning.  Dates for orientation and interview are outlined in the Audition Package. This package is filled with crucial information, dates and deadlines, and application form.  One must complete an application attached with audition fee and any size non-refundable photo of applicant only.  

 

The Audition
Auditions are usually held the first Monday of the month prior to the beginning of each term but are subject to change due to director’s schedules.  The audition itself consists of a short ballet barre, center floor, jazz technique, combination and may include a panel interview.  Audition may last up to 3-4 hours and applicants are expected to remain the duration.  Early arrival is recommended, as there is no late entrance into audition. Results will be known day of audition. 
Note:  This program has accepted all levels.

 

Audition Attire
Ladies:  leotards & tights ONLY.  Hair pulled off face.
Men:  tight fitting tank & tights or bike shorts ONLY.  Hair pulled off face.

 

Jimmie DeFore Dance Center 151 Kalmus Drive, Suite G3 Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.241.9908
DeFore Foundation for the Arts is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation. Federal Tax ID #33-0432352