MILTON KEYNES DANCE THEATRE
COMPANY COHORT
MK Dance Theatre is entering a new chapter, introducing a refreshed structure designed to enhance the training and experience of our young dancers aged 12–18. This updated approach prioritises consistency, increased performance opportunities, and a framework that more accurately reflects the professional landscape and better prepares our students for future pathways in dance and the wider creative industries.
Students aged 12 and above are invited to audition for a place in our Full-Time Company Cohort. This annual programme offers comprehensive training, weekly rehearsals, and multiple performance opportunities throughout the year. Participation is based on audition and is designed for committed young dancers seeking a deeper, more immersive experience.
Course Inclusions
Students accepted into the MK Dance Theatre Company Cohort will benefit from a rich, structured programme designed to reflect the demands and opportunities of professional company life. The course includes:
Major Creation Cycles:
• Participation in two full-scale productions each year:
• A full-length narrative work
• A mixed bill featuring varied choreographic voices and creative themes
• Casting is approached flexibly to align with dancers’ development and evolving creative direction.
Additional Performance Opportunities:
• Three Gala Evenings annually, open to all Company Cohort members
• External performance opportunities, including community partnerships and special events (e.g., church performance projects, youth company collaborations)
*These will be offered at the discretion of the artistic team, who will consider extenuating circumstances, readiness and alignment with the company’s ethos.
Workshops & Intensives:
• Access to seasonal workshops and summer school sessions
• All enrichment activities are included in the course fee with no additional costs
Professional Practice & Mentorship:
• Engagement with guest choreographers, educators, and creative professionals
• Classes and short-term creation projects mirror the structure and standards of a professional dance environment
• Students gain experience in artistic collaboration, adaptability, and industry-level processes.
Key Course Benefits
MK Dance Theatre’s Company Cohort offers a comprehensive and enriching experience, providing dancers with immediate and long-term advantages that support both artistic development and personal growth.
Immediate Benefits
• Increased performance opportunities, fostering creative expression and public presentation
• Broader exposure to various aspects of production, including costume design, lighting, choreography, and promotion
• A deeper culture of artistry, collaboration, and growth, encouraging a supportive, dynamic environment for learning
• Closer relationships between dancers and staff, enhancing mentorship and individualised guidance.
Long-Term Benefits
• Strong preparation for further dance education and professional careers, equipping students with the skills and experience needed for the next steps in their dance journey
• A training environment that simulates a professional company, helping students to understand the realities of a career in the performing arts
• Development of transferable life skills, including discipline, teamwork, resilience, and creative thinking—qualities applicable to all areas of personal and professional life
These benefits work together to ensure that each dancer not only thrives within MK Dance Theatre but also is well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in the future.
Time Commitment & Expectations
Participation in the MK Dance Theatre Company Cohort requires a consistent and dedicated time commitment, reflecting the structure and discipline of a professional training environment. All dancers are expected to fully engage with the scheduled programme throughout the year.
Weekly Rehearsals:
• 36 Sundays per year are scheduled for company activity
• All dancers are required to attend from 09:30 to 16:00
• An additional rehearsal window from 16:00 to 18:00 will be used for soloist or featured role rehearsals, based on casting needs
Performance Periods:
• Each production cycle culminates in a 4-day performance period, including technical rehearsals and public performances
• Dancers are expected to be fully available for these intensive phases
Gala Evenings:
• Three single-day Gala Events are held annually
• All cohort members will participate in these performances, showcasing a range of works and creative developments.
External Performance Opportunities:
• Additional performances outside of our main season will be scheduled throughout the year
• Participation in these events will be by invitation or casting, and dancers must be prepared for occasional additional commitments as part of their course
Summary:
The course is designed to simulate the rhythm and demands of professional company life, and students are expected to maintain high levels of attendance, focus, and commitment throughout all scheduled activities.
We ask for clear communication and an 80% minimum attendance to maintain the integrity of what we deliver.
Course Participation Fees
At MK Dance Theatre, we remain committed to providing high-quality training and performance opportunities at an accessible price. We believe in transparency and strive to ensure that all costs are clear from the outset, with no hidden or additional charges throughout the year.
Annual Cost:
• £990.00 for the full year of participation
Payment Plan:
• Payment is split into 11 monthly instalments of £90 (from September to July)
All-Inclusive:
• There are no additional charges for rehearsals, performances, workshops, or summer schools. The fee covers everything included in the programme.
What’s Included in the Course Fee:
• 40 Rehearsal Dates = Over 240 hours of professional-level training
• 10 Guaranteed Performances throughout the year, including core productions and gala evenings
• Unlimited access to additional performance opportunities as they arise
• Free participation in workshops and summer school sessions, enhancing both artistic development and personal growth
Value Breakdown
• This equates to less than £3 per hour for high-quality, professional-level training, performance experience, and personal development.
We believe this structure offers exceptional value while maintaining our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity for all dancers.