Study at URDANG

theurdang. Challenging and Nurturing A Message From Our Patrons

Our high-calibre courses and versatility of training More Info “It has been so exciting over the “I can’t count the means our graduates are highly versatile, well-rounded years to watch the Urdang School huge number of performers. This is why our graduates are in constant theurdang.london from being born, through to their dancers I have amtc.uk.com demand for West End and International destinations. becoming a major force in the worked with, they education of our young performers definitely are what Our tailored courses and ongoing relationships with Directors and now turning out some of our I call ‘The Thinking world-class professionals offer our students invaluable top musical artists.” exposure to leading industry figures and keep Urdang at Solange Urdang Dancers’” CEO Anthony Van Laast MBE the forefront of the performing arts industry. A high level Arlene Phillips CBE of expectation and discipline is teamed with relevant Craig Phillips support and advice, ensuring our students reach their full Managing Director potential. Rob Archibald Co-Principal (Musical Theatre) We spot true performers and give them a “training environment that develops and Lynsey McDougall refines their technique and performance Co-Principal skills. “ (Dance) Solange Urdang, CEO Yvette Curtin “I have been associated with Urdang and its

Co-Principal students for the past 20 years. Urdang has (Education & always been committed to giving exceptional In a continued effort to tackle diversity and quality Advancement) vocational training and we constantly see this of training in the performing arts, Urdang is proud to in the graduating students and all the talented announce their collaboration in 2018 with four others ex-students we have cast in our shows over UK’s leading musical theatre conservatoires to form the many years.” Alliance of Musical Theatre Conservatoires (AMTC). Pippa Ailion MBE The alliance comprises of ArtsEd, , The Guildford School of Acting at the University of Surrey Everyone “Urdang has long been an arts (GSA), Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, and Urdang organisation that I have highly Academy, and represents a group of world-class individual! respected. The calibre of the organisations that share a similar history and vision and students graduating from the are committed to delivering outstanding musical theatre college is world class and their education and vocational training. fresh and passionate versatility has been a much welcomed asset in my rehearsal room for several years now.”

2 • Study at Urdang Drew McOnie Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 3 Welcome to Urdang Success

The Urdang Academy is a conservatoire of Dance Life after graduation continues to be outstanding for Urdang’s students and Musical Theatre offering exceptional vocational gaining employment in the West End and beyond. Most graduating students leave with representation from leading theatrical or dance training in the vibrant heart of London agencies, meaning they finish their studies with the optimum chance of securing high quality professional work within the industry. Urdang educates and trains young performers from 16 years and over Recent and past graduate success includes: in Musical Theatre and Dance to become strong, disciplined and Waitress, Strictly Ballroom, Hamilton, Motown, The Book of Mormon, 42nd confident performers. Street, Aladdin, , Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, Mamma Mia, Annie, Kinky Boots, Chicago, , Matilda, Stomp, Les Misérables, Urdang boasts a modern outlook, Thriller Live, Guys & Dolls, Miss Saigon, Jersey Boys, Follies, War Horse, dynamic atmosphere and inspiring Shrek, Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, ’s backdrop, making the academy an and Romeo & Juliet, , Ghost, , West Side energising and contemporary place Story, Fame, Hairspray, Dreamboats & Petticoats, Tina The Musical, The to study. Bodyguard, Tarzan, Dirty Dancing, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Princess Students are admitted based on Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises, The Voice, X Factor, Brit Awards, their raw talent, believing that this EMA’s, MOBO’s, Britain’s Got Talent, Magic Mike Live (Vegas & London) raw talent supersedes size, race, Films include: Sinbad, Mamma Mia 2, Beauty & The Beast, Aladdin (2017), height, socio-economic status and Returns (2018), Guardians of the Galaxy, Maleficent, Sick ethnicity. It is this mentality that Note, Blood Drive. Television Programmes include: Eastenders, Casualty, has made Urdang the most diverse Waterloo Road, The Bill, Bad Girls, Doctors, Beauty & The Beast, The dance and Bisexual, Dance Dance Dance, American Psycho, Love, Live and Happy in the UK, and has also inspired Endings, Broadway Christmas Spectacular, Rihanna, Robbie Williams, Rita us to run a selection of short and Ora, , , Katy Perry, , Dua Lipa, Sam evening courses giving everyone the Smith, Zara Larsson, X Factor Tour, , Taylor Swift, Liam Payne. opportunity to train and perform at their best.

4 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 5 Our constantly-evolving courses help Urdang maintain a legacy of cutting edge training

Our courses include:

• A three-year BA (Hons) Degree in Professional Dance and Musical Theatre awarded by during which students train for a career in the performing arts industry through technical training and academic study

• A three-year Level 6 Diploma in Professional Dance or Musical Theatre validated by Trinity College London during which students train for a career in the performing arts industry

• A one-year Foundation Course in Dance and Musical Theatre where students develop their skills and prepare for auditions into top vocational colleges

• A two-year fully funded Level 3 Diploma in Performing Arts validated by Oxford Cambridge and RSA (OCR) during which students can gain up to 112 UCAS points whilst training in all practical subjects

• A twelve to eighteen-month ISTD Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education offering graduates and professional performers a qualification in Modern and Tap genres.

6 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 7 BA (Hons) in Professional Dance and The Course Musical Theatre

Academic and practical training for a career in More Info • Full-time (delivered over three years) the performing arts. Our three-year BA (Hons) theurdang.london programme connects aspiring students to a • Vocational and academic studies career in the performing arts through outstanding Enquiries technical training and academic study. • Practical skills in dance, singing and acting admissions@ theurdang.london The structure of the degree programme offers three • Productions showcase students learning in a range of Dance and different pathways (Triple-threat training, Actor/ Musical Theatre disciplines Singer Focus, Dance Focus) that allow students to concentrate on their specialisms. Our BA (Hons) • Facilitates greater understanding of cultural and historical developments programme nurtures raw talent and allows students in Dance and Musical Theatre to pursue specific interests, without boundaries. This programme is currently validated by Anglia • Emphasises the importance of academic study through independent Ruskin University. research projects

This course is designed for students aged 18+ who • Offers opportunities to be creative through guided choreography are keen to be academically challenged by the projects theory of musical theatre and dance alongside learning the craft of performance. The challenging • Vocational classes are taught in small groups, which ensures individual BA (Hons) programme provides students with learning the opportunity to train to the highest standards for a professional career in musical theatre and This programme evaluates students on the quality of their academic and dance, whilst gaining solid academic skills that will practical work. enhance career prospects upon graduation.

8 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 9 Entry Requirements

Entry requirements (essential)

• A passion for the performing arts

• 80 points (new UCAS tariff) through Level 3 academic qualifications

• (BTEC, A-Level, Scottish Highers etc)

• GCSE Grades 4-9 /C or above in English Language (or equivalent).

• EU and international students will need to have gained an Academic IELTS score of 6.5.

“Outstanding all-round education and training in Dance and Musical Theatre.”

Dance and Drama Inspection Report Nov 2015

“When I first walked into Urdang… I felt like I was in Fame The Movie, it immediately made up my mind - And I auditioned for 10 colleges.”

Daisy Twells - Graduate 2017

10 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 11 Diploma in Professional Musical The Course Theatre or Dance

Vocational training for a career in the performing More Info • Full-time (delivered over three years) arts. theurdang.london • Predominantly practical vocational training Our three-year Level 6 Diploma course prepares Enquiries students for a career in the performing arts • Productions showcase students learning in a range of Dance and admissions@ industry. The programme focuses on developing theurdang.london Musical Theatre disciplines students’ technique, contextual knowledge and performance training through vocational studies. Entry • Enhances contextual understanding including historical, stylistic and This qualification has been validated by Trinity Requirements professional aspects of industry

College London. By audition and interview • Vocational classes are taught in small groups, which ensures individual The structure of our diploma programme offers learning. three different tracks (Triple-threat training, Actor/ Singer Focus, Dance Focus) that allow students to This programme evaluates students on the quality of their practical work. concentrate on their specialisms. Students who graduate from this three-year programme benefit from the programme’s holistic approach, characterised by technical and contextual This course is designed for students aged 16+ and training. is a vocational course focusing on performance encompassing all aspects of the performing arts. Students graduate having advanced their skills and will have developed This gives students an excellent grounding in a wider theoretical understanding of their chosen destination. It is the Singing, Dance and Acting alongside developing practical and holistic nature of the diploma programme that helps students charisma, individuality and performance skills. to embark on a successful and fulfilled life in the performing arts, with the ability to develop a sustained and varied career.

The diploma track system allows students to select a direction for their studies which fits with their primary interests and strengths in the performing arts. This allows students to explore their interests in greater detail and become more specialised in specific areas of the performing arts.

12 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 13 Track System

Track A Musical Theatre This track is designed to support students who are suited to pursuing a Singing Technique, Singing Repertoire, Acting, Voice (Phonetics/Accent career with a focus on all aspects of Musical Theatre performances i.e. Articulation), Acting Through Song, Integrated Performance, Ensemble Singing, Acting and Dance. There is an equal emphasis on Musical Theatre Singing, Legit, Operetta Singing and Acting Masterclasses, Acting for subjects and Dance disciplines. On this track students are expected to reach Audition, Singing for Audition, and Play Rehearsals, Accent Reduction for a high level in all the disciplines of Singing, Acting and Dance. overseas students.

Musical Theatre Dance Singing Technique, Singing Repertoire, Acting (including a Shakespeare Body Conditioning, Classical , Technical Jazz, Contemporary and Tap. module), Acting through Song, Voice (Accent and Articulation), Ensemble Singing, Acting for Audition, Singing for Audition and Integrated Contextual Studies Performance, Accent Reduction for overseas students. Theatre visits for critical reflection and industry-relevant project journal.

Dance Track D Classical Ballet, Technical Jazz, Musical Theatre Jazz, Contemporary, Tap, This track aims to produce the most versatile dancers for the current Commercial, Acrobatics and Partner Work. industry. This course is heavily weighted towards Dance with Musical Theatre being used as a supporting subject to maintain basic singing and Contextual Studies acting skills. These students are expected to reach an exceptional level in all Theatre visits for critical reflection and industry-relevant project journal. Dance disciplines.

Track C Dance This track is designed to support those students who will predominantly Classical Ballet, Technical Jazz, Musical Theatre Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, follow acting and singing-based Musical Theatre careers. This course is Choreography, Acrobatics, Partner Work, Street, Hip Hop and Commercial. heavily weighted towards Musical Theatre disciplines with Dance being used as a supporting discipline to maintain strength and core stability. This track Musical Theatre has a strong emphasis towards performance in both Acting and Musical Acting, Acting Through Song, Singing, Integrated Performance and Voice. Theatre. On this Track students are expected to reach an exceptional level in Singing and Acting modules. Contextual Studies Theatre visits for critical reflection and industry-relevant project journal.

14 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 15 Foundation Access to Vocational Training (AVT)

Our one-year Foundation Course prepares More Info A fully funded two-year vocational alternative to More Info students aged 18+ for auditions for further training. sixth form or BTEC. theurdang.london theurdang.london Students’ Dance and Musical Theatre technique and performance ability are the focus of this Enquiries The Access to Vocational Training course (AVT) Enquiries course while tailored, actionable feedback is a key is a funded two-year Dance and Musical Theatre admissions@ admissions@ component of training to develop the foundations theurdang.london course for 16-18 year olds (Level 3 Cambridge theurdang.london of the individual. Technical Diploma – 720GLH). This programme is Entry validated by Oxford Cambridge and RSA (OCR). Entry This course is for talented students who would like Requirements Requirements

to enhance their technical proficiency so they can By audition As an affordable specialist pre-vocational course, GCSE Grades 4-9 in successfully audition for further studies in Musical the AVT will best prepare students for entry to high English and Maths

Theatre and Dance. Students receive workshops level diploma and degree courses in Performing Term-time address from current industry professionals throughout the Arts. Students are being taught in small groups. within approximately year. one-hour commute of Central London Upon successful completion, students will gain a Students who graduate from this one-year Level 3 Diploma that will earn them up to 112 UCAS programme benefit from increased performance points (equivalent to two A-Levels). levels, heightened confidence to successfully audition for further training, deeper knowledge and Please note that if you have already completed two greater understanding of vocational level training. years at Sixth Form or on any other BTEC/Level 3 Graduates have an improved chance of gaining equivalents, you will not be eligible for the AVT. scholarships and funding for future training.

16 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 17 ISTD Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education

Delivered part-time, the new Level 4 Diploma in More Info Dance Education (DDE) for Theatre Dance Genre(s) theurdang.london is aimed at graduates from vocational colleges and professional performers. Whilst intended for Enquiries students who wish to teach the ISTD syllabus, this [email protected] is also a great opportunity to learn about Safe Dance Practice in teaching dance at all levels. Entry Requirements The course is taught by experienced tutors who GCSE Grades 4-9 in examine and teach for the ISTD faculties. Classes English and Maths take place every Monday and consist of technique Intermediate Dance classes during the day (at intermediate standard) Examination in and sessions for subject analysis to focus on the Genre(s) of Study teaching of the technical requirements of the ISTD syllabus.

Students begin studying the practical units of the course and the contextual units are then delivered through a mix of lectures/tutorials and distance learning.

18 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 19 Performance

Performance is at the heart of Urdang. We provide students with as many opportunities as possible to gain performance experience and showcase their talents. Students perform in various productions throughout their training; some in-house and some for friends, family and the general public.

First and second year students participate in the Summer Show, staged externally, encompassing all areas of their training and considered the highlight of the academic year.

Second year students take part in a musical presentation, providing increased opportunity for students to gain valuable performance experience. Second year AVT and Foundation students share a showcase in the Summer term.

The third year is all about performance, with two public performances during the year. Graduate productions, tailored to individual student’s strengths and employability are showcased to dance and theatrical agents. The varied programme ensures a wide range of agents attend, giving students the best chance of securing agent representation appropriate for their chosen career path.

Students also perform in new musical workshops, West End concerts, masterclasses with Musical Theatre professionals as well as shows such as ‘Can You Dance?’, charity and corporate events. Additionally, male students get the opportunity to represent Urdang’s all-male dance company, Strike Boys Co., set up in 2008 to inspire future generations of male performers. Students have also performed for Children in Need, The Brits, Strictly Come Dancing, Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor.

20 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 21 Pastoral Care & Treatment

Urdang and its faculty prides itself on ensuring student welfare is of the utmost importance during their training. Our reputation is built on an ethos of caring and nurturing individuals, and this care has been recognised by Ofsted.

“Pastoral guidance and welfare, including the prevention and treatment of injury, are exemplary.” Ofsted Prevention & Injury Treatment Department Pastoral Care A performer’s body needs to be kept in peak physical condition in order to Urdang places great importance on the pastoral care of its students, cope with the demanding nature of training in the performing arts industry. conscious that for many this will be their first time living away from home, Urdang has a dedicated team of on-site practitioners, which consists of with many new to London. dance specific Osteopaths, Pilates/Movement Rehabilitation teachers, and Sports Massage Therapists. Our Treatment Department boasts an on-site Overseen by the Co-Principals, the Academy provides student support Pilates studio with a clinical Reformer/Tower and other various pieces of and advice in many practical areas (accommodation, finance and related equipment to assist the students in their rehabilitation. And we also offer, issues). Students may have private interviews with the Co-Principals, the when required, Vocal Massage/Rehabilitation. Pastoral Care Manager or year tutors on request. Injury prevention & Maintaining & Enhancing Performance Potential of a Our Pastoral Care Manager is a full-time in-house qualified Emotional Performer Wellbeing Coach who provides mindfulness tools, meditation techniques and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) coaching and is available at the The Academy’s policy focuses on injury prevention and as such, has a students’ disposal. Urdang is dedicated to its students wellness and the dedicated Pilates/Movement specialist team, who can create bespoke Pastoral Care team offers guidance, care solutions and coping mechanisms dance specific exercise programmes to help maintain performance on any issues that may affect them during their Urdang journey. potential. These programmes focus on:

• Offsetting biomechanical overuse • Balancing the effectiveness and efficiency of movement techniques • Maintaining physical capacity

22 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 23 Link Agency

An in-house talent agency, focused solely on More Info Students can be represented by Link Talent for up to six months after future student success. graduation, allowing them the best opportunity in their transition from theurdang.london student to professional. We recognise that most of our students have their Enquiries sights set on careers as professional performers Link Talent creates unique opportunities for casting directors, agents and urdang@linktalent. and our in-house agency, Link Talent, was created co.uk other leading professionals, giving them a sneak preview into Urdang’s to help these dreams become reality. Link Talent emerging talent. Providing the industry with a valuable first introduction is the bespoke agency linking Urdang’s final year to the students, Link Talent matches Urdang’s fresh, raw talent with elite students to the professional industry. contracts.

Having spent three years at Urdang, we know our Head Agent at Link Talent is industry professional Alex Gottschall. After a students’ strengths, weaknesses and desires inside varied career as a performer, performing arts teacher and agent, Alex has and out. This helps us match soon-to-be-graduates brought her wealth of experience to lead the in-house agency at the Urdang with roles, performances, agents, casting directors Academy. and other opportunities that are a genuine fit for their skills. All interested third year students are “My insight and experience in the industry make me an understanding represented by Link Talent. Current students have and knowledgeable agent, best suited to mentor the incredible agency representation with the main objective to talent grown from the Urdang Academy into successful careers”. help maximise support, offer advice and place them Alex Gottschall, Head Agent into high quality productions. “Link Talent was absolutely incredible and vital for my first steps Link Talent has successfully secured Urdang into the industry. Link has given me confidence and advice, not just students employment on prime TV talent shows for the performing arts but also for my life.” and regularly organise auditions for acclaimed Katherine Picar - Graduate 2015 - Straight into Miss Saigon West End West End productions, UK Tours, Commercial Dance, Films, TV Programmes, Commercials, Pantomimes, Cruises and productions.

24 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 25 “Urdang’s courses have hugely benefited from the academy’s relocation in The Old Finsbury Town Hall. This is a bold and imaginative step that has not only provided Urdang with a suite of sparkling new studios and other facilities but has also rejuvenated staff and generated a sense of pride.” Ofsted

26 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 27 Our Facilities

Studying in Europe’s largest city allows a multitude of choices that can make for a buzzing student life! Located in Central London, near the hub of the West End, the Academy is in the centre of the action. Such prime location makes it easy to invite industry professionals to work with our students so that we remain at the forefront of performing arts training. Spacious studios and well-equipped facilities make it the venue of choice for a wealth of production companies who regularly use it to hold professional castings and rehearsals.

The Old Finsbury Town Hall

The Old Finsbury Town Hall (Grade II* listed) is no ordinary performing arts centre. One of the capital’s hidden treasures with its rich Victorian heritage, it provides students with an inspiring backdrop to their training.

Before opening the building as a stunning student venue in 2007, Urdang spent two years restoring this beautiful landmark to its former glory, ensuring it met the needs of students and their training and allowing full disabled access.

“Amazing facilities with current industry professionals mean I receive training that is relevant today for the industry. The warm and friendly staff and family atmosphere along with training that is tailored to me as an individual make Urdang a fantastic place to study” Ethan-James Luke - Graduate 2017

28 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 29 Urdang 2

Urdang 2

Our second location, encapsulates the ethos of the academy but also represents the other side of Urdang’s personality i.e. relevant and cutting- edge. The site opened in 2014, to provide additional state-of-the-art training facilities for our talented students. Located a stone’s throw away from the Old Finsbury Town Hall in Islington, it has easy access to the tube and main bus routes.

This inspirational building is flooded with natural light and boasts bold graphics and industrial design touches. The premises provide purpose-built training facilities in an innovative and contemporary environment making it a fierce statement and providing a subtle contrast to our historical roots at The Old Finsbury Town Hall.

Amwell Street Studios

In 2017, Urdang secured a brand new space, as a continued effort to offer the very best training environment for its students. The studios are ideally located a short walk from the Old Finsbury Town Hall and ten minutes away from Urdang 2.

30 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang 31 theurdang.london

The Old Finsbury Town Hall Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4RP +44 (0)20 7713 7710 • [email protected]

Urdang is accredited by the Council for Dance, Drama and Musical Theatre

32 Urdang Academy • Study at Urdang