Audition Guidelines
"As Milton [Myers] said, 'We came as dancers, we left as artists.'"
- Sydney Schiff, Contemporary Traditions Program participant
2010 School Programs
Audition & Apply
The Experience
Visit The School
In Person
Led by professional artists, auditions are structured as Master Classes, and no cuts are made during the audition. This is an excellent opportunity to take a professional class, experience auditioning, and learn about The School from Jacob's Pillow staff. Click here for the 2010 in-person audition schedule.
Expect a fast-paced class with a range of combinations related to the techniques and artistic expectations of specific Programs. You must audition separately for each program; for example, a Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance audition cannot be used to apply to the Tap program.
Auditions are open to advanced dancers, ages 15 and up. Professional dance attire required. Arrive on time to register. Parents, teachers, and friends are not permitted to observe.
• Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: Auditions cover multiple jazz dance styles, including tap. Prepare two songs from published musical theatre works, maximum 8 minutes total. Bring sheet music; accompanist provided.
By Video
Auditions are required for every program, and vary by program. Video auditions are encouraged and receive the same consideration as in-person auditions.
Submit either a DVD (American NTSC or European PAL) or video hosting URL address on Program Application Form. Recordings must be at least 20 minutes in length and of clear quality. Label DVD and its case with your name, program choice, and date recorded. Enclose a Table of Contents including the choreographer(s) for work(s) shown, as applicable.
• Choreographers Lab: one to three full-length work(s) created in the past two years, with accompanying programs and artist notes. In person auditions are not accepted.
• All other programs: footage should be shot no more than six months prior to submission and must be relevant to the program to which you are applying.
Please organize video as follows:
1. Brief verbal self-introduction
2. Technique sampler, center and across the floor exercises only
(a) Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: must include
exercises of grand pliés, ronde de jambes, extensions, and balances; and across-
the-floor
progressions of turns, jumps, and leaps.
(b) Ballet: must include adagio, pirouettes, petit and grand allegro, and at least one
full variation. Pointe shoes are required for females.
(c) Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: must include tap dance.
(d) Tap: must include exercises and drills of differing rhythms and styles.
3. One or two solo dance combinations, repertory excerpts, or improvisations:
demonstrate range of dynamics, levels, tempos, and styles
4. Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: add two songs from published musical theatre works,
use only microphone on video camera; maximum 8 minutes total
Contact us with any questions at 413.243.9919 or email below.
Please click here to download the Application & Scholarship Packet
Led by professional artists, auditions are structured as Master Classes, and no cuts are made during the audition. This is an excellent opportunity to take a professional class, experience auditioning, and learn about The School from Jacob's Pillow staff. Click here for the 2010 in-person audition schedule.
Expect a fast-paced class with a range of combinations related to the techniques and artistic expectations of specific Programs. You must audition separately for each program; for example, a Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance audition cannot be used to apply to the Tap program.
Auditions are open to advanced dancers, ages 15 and up. Professional dance attire required. Arrive on time to register. Parents, teachers, and friends are not permitted to observe.
• Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: Auditions cover multiple jazz dance styles, including tap. Prepare two songs from published musical theatre works, maximum 8 minutes total. Bring sheet music; accompanist provided.
By Video
Auditions are required for every program, and vary by program. Video auditions are encouraged and receive the same consideration as in-person auditions.
Submit either a DVD (American NTSC or European PAL) or video hosting URL address on Program Application Form. Recordings must be at least 20 minutes in length and of clear quality. Label DVD and its case with your name, program choice, and date recorded. Enclose a Table of Contents including the choreographer(s) for work(s) shown, as applicable.
• Choreographers Lab: one to three full-length work(s) created in the past two years, with accompanying programs and artist notes. In person auditions are not accepted.
• All other programs: footage should be shot no more than six months prior to submission and must be relevant to the program to which you are applying.
Please organize video as follows:
1. Brief verbal self-introduction
2. Technique sampler, center and across the floor exercises only
(a) Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: must include
exercises of grand pliés, ronde de jambes, extensions, and balances; and across-
the-floor
progressions of turns, jumps, and leaps.
(b) Ballet: must include adagio, pirouettes, petit and grand allegro, and at least one
full variation. Pointe shoes are required for females.
(c) Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: must include tap dance.
(d) Tap: must include exercises and drills of differing rhythms and styles.
3. One or two solo dance combinations, repertory excerpts, or improvisations:
demonstrate range of dynamics, levels, tempos, and styles
4. Jazz/Musical Theatre Dance: add two songs from published musical theatre works,
use only microphone on video camera; maximum 8 minutes total
Contact us with any questions at 413.243.9919 or email below.
Please click here to download the Application & Scholarship Packet
