Dance Studies

A Fusion of Artistry, Knowledge, and Expression

Dance Studies offers a comprehensive syllabus that seamlessly integrates academic rigor with physical skill, creative expression, and cultural exploration. This dynamic subject provides learners with a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of dance, allowing them to cultivate their artistic talents while developing critical thinking and analytical skills.

Students engage in a variety of disciplines, including Jazz technique, choreography, and performance, which enhance their technical abilities and creative expression. They also explore dance history, gain insight into the cultural and historical contexts that have shaped the art form, and study anatomy to understand the body's movement potential and limitations.

Through this holistic approach, learners not only grow as dancers but also as thinkers, able to critically analyze and appreciate the multifaceted world of dance. Dance Studies fosters a lifelong passion for the arts, encouraging students to explore their creative potential and develop the skills necessary to succeed in both artistic and academic endeavors.

Why take Dance Studies

Dance Studies is not just about the Dance art form; it is a cross between many spheres—creativity, physicality, intellect, and emotional expression. Learners who take dance not only enhance their discipline, coordination, and performance skills, but also embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through dance, learners uncover more about themselves: Are they natural leaders, guiding their peers through complex choreography? Do they excel in planning and organizing, and managing rehearsals and performances? Are they drawn to analyzing movement, understanding anatomy, or solving problems with logic and creativity?

Dance provides a unique space for learners to explore their strengths, develop their critical thinking abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of their potential. It nurtures both the body and mind, shaping well-rounded individuals who are equipped with skills that extend far beyond the dance studio.

Your NSC Dance Studies results can be used towards a University APS (Admission Points Score), for example, if applying to UCT 2024, a final Dance Studies result of 70% would provide 70 pts towards your APS.

Content

Practical component

Jazz Dance Style
Please note: Dance co-curricular enrolment at Parklands College is a requirement
Practical classes focusing on dance technique
Participation in the Cape Town Eisteddfod.

Dance composition component

Choreography
Improvisation

Theoretical component

Dance conventions and values
Physiology and Nutrition
Dance health and safe dance practice
Production Theory
History of Dance
Dance technical theory and critical analysis
Critical analysis of prescribed Dance works
Program/production/project/choreographic planning

Requirements

Previous formal dance training (Modern, Jazz, Ballet, etc.) is required.
Additional Enrolment in Co-curricular dance classes at Parklands College: All learners require extra practical hours to meet the WCED syllabus criteria and become part of our dance department.
Must be willing to dance in Eisteddfods, shows, and Grade 12 choreographies for Parklands College. Attendance of African and WCED workshops twice a year is vital as well as evening performances at the Artscape or Baxter.
Must be willing to attend extra afternoon or early morning, practical classes.
Above all hard work and commitment to Dance.
It is advisable that learners taking Dance Studies do not drop their extra 8th subject as a contingency in case they have a very serious injury and can't complete their practical component in Grade 12.

Skills Acquired

Dancing fosters an individual’s ability to interpret interpersonal non-verbal communication.
Dancing integrates several brain functions at once: kinaesthetic, rational, musical, and emotional, thus further increasing neural connectivity.
Dance education teaches the values and skills of creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, risk-taking, making judgments in the absence of rules, and higher-order thinking skills.
Dance education helps the learners develop physical fitness, appreciation of the body, concern for sound health practices, and effective stress management.

Opportunities

Dance Studies is an invaluable subject for those preparing to pursue a career in the arts. While it opens doors to various dance-related careers and employment opportunities, the skills and insights gained through the program extend far beyond the dance world. Dance Studies helps learners discover more about themselves, fostering life skills such as discipline, leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These qualities will serve them well in any career they choose, providing a strong foundation for personal and professional growth in a wide range of fields.

Professional dancer
Choreographer
Choreologist
Dance therapist
Performing arts councils
Television and theatres
General entertainment industries
Dance schools, as a teacher
Work on a freelance basis
Self-employment, with own dance studio
Fitness Industry
Physiotherapist

CHOREOGRAPHY

In Dance Studies, choreography is more than just creating movement—it's about planning, organizing, and managing a complete project from start to finish. Learners are tasked with conceptualizing their choreography, and carefully crafting each movement to express a theme or idea. They take on the responsibility of planning and organizing rehearsals, managing time and resources, and ensuring the smooth execution of their creative vision. Once the choreography is complete, students also step into the roles of director and editor, filming and editing the final project to showcase their work. This hands-on experience in choreography not only hones their artistic abilities but also develops essential skills in leadership, organization, and technical execution, preparing them for success both in dance and beyond.