TUFFNEY SQAUD
2023/24
Competition Squads
Want to be part of our award winning competition squads, please read on to find out more . . . .
Places are awarded through audition to students who show passion for the arts and those gifted and talented in dance. Successful applicants gain a place in one of the squads for 1 academic year where they will train as a team, create a routine which is competed and performed across the UK at competitions and events. Our two different squads are;
-
Senior Street Dance Squad - Synergy (15 - 18 years)
-
Junior Street Dance Squad - Mini Gees (10 - 14 years)
The squads train once a week throughout the first 10 weeks of the Autumn Term in addition to the students normal Tuffney lessons. Squad dancers must attend at least 2 Tuffney lesson a week. We only allow a maximum of 2 absences throughout the rehearsal period, so you must make sure you can commit before applying.
The Squad then only meet for competition and events throughout the rest of the year
Squad dancers must have the full Tuffney uniform to be worn at all events - Tuffney Joggers, Tuffney Hoodie or sweatshirt and T-shirt
Squad dancers fees are £100/term (3 terms) which helps towards studio hire, costumes, music and industry professionals. There is sometimes additional competition fees if they are not covered in our budget. Spectator Tickets are not included in the fees. Travel expenses are not included in the fees, whilst parents are expected to get their child to rehearsals and events we do encourage lift sharing and teachers are sometimes available to help with lifts.
The Auditions
Instead of formal auditions this year, Kylie and Macie will assess dancers in their normal class as well as a Masterclass on Sunday 9th July. We will run the usual warm-up and technique and you will then be taught a short routine, which will be performed in smaller groups. We are looking for dancers that are not only gifted and talented in the style of dance but also show good work ethic, have had commitment and good attendance at class. The dancers must be able to work as part of a team and be able to take direction and apply corrections. Be prepared to work hard and support their team mates and be a confident and energetic performer.
Dancers will be notified by email whether they are successful in this years squads and then the squad dancers will be announced at the Presentation evening in July.
Dancers will only be allowed to be in one squad, they may also be a "Festival Dancer" if they wish.
We have a 3 strike rule, if dancers miss more than 3 events their space on the squad may be compromised. We require a certain amount of commitment to the squad but we are also mindful most of the dancers are GCSE/A-level age and therefore we help them to juggle their commitments and create a realistic schedule.
Whilst we would love to be able to offer everyone a space on the competition squads, unfortunately it is just not possible. If unsuccessful this year, we would encourage to audition again next year. We want to teach our dancers that this industry is tough, you have to be able to take rejection and continue to work hard and try again, which is a life lesson not just applicable in dance. Their time will come when the time is right.
We will keep the dancers details on file for 1 year on the waiting list if a space becomes available we may contact you.
