Central Scotland Ballet School

Choreography Competition 2012

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 07 May 2012 10:12:00 GMT

From charleston to hip-hop and pirates to princesses, our 2012 Choreography Competition certainly had variety!

Sixty-eight young dancers aged 7-17, performed solos, duets and group dances onstage. They had choreographed their own routines in ballet, pointe, character, jazz, tap and acrobatics with their own choice of music and costumes.

We were delighted to welcome as judges, Eilidh McRae (Dance teacher SYT and Dance Connections), Olivia McLay (CSBS Vocational Tap Teacher), and CSBS acrobatics teacher Diane Dagger. They were very impressed by the consistently high standard shown in all the categories across all the age groups and the range of imaginative and creative ideas and costumes.

Medal winners and certificates

Every competitor was presented with a certificate for each routine they had performed. In total, 116 certificates were presented by CSBS Principal, Mrs Clark. The judges then awarded 12 second-place medals and 35 first-place medals.

Trophy winners

The Millennium Trophy for the most outstanding performer of the day was awarded jointly to sisters Serena McCall (8) and Christina McCall (15)(pictured above). The "Spirit of Dance Award" for musicality and performance was awardeded to Sarah MacNeill (14). (All girls pictured below with the judging panel)

You can view or download a complete list of the prizewinners and visit our Facebook page for photos of some of the dancers

Many thanks to everyone who supported the event, including the students, parents, friends and staff who just came along to watch. Thanks also to our judges who gave up their Sunday and to Mairi at Braes High for being so helpful. Mrs Clark, Sammy and Amanda are delighted that so many people took part and are already excited about next year!

More dance exam success...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:32:00 GMT

We are delighted by the excellent results for the last session of dance exams...

One hundred and eighty three candidates aged 5-17 sat and passed ballet, tap and acrobatics exams.

RAD Ballet Exam Results

Eight little stars gained their Pre-Primary Class Award while 4 girls were awarded silver medals for their Primary exam. Some students gained outstanding marks over 80%...

Grade 1: Katie McEwan 83%, Sarah Makin 85%, Serena McCall 81%
Grade 5: Ailsa Robertson 90%, Andrew Halliday 91%, Emma McTeague 88%, Isla Dracup 82%, Laura Bryson 85%, Lauren Taylor 82%, Nicola Thomson 86%, Sarah MacNeill 87%, Lauryn Robertson 90%
Grade 7: Christina McCall 87%

RAD Grade 8 Award

Special congratulations must go to the 5 students who gained their Grade 8 Award with Distinction:

Adele Cook, Hayley Fleming, Paige Lipski, Kristina Lowe, Rosie Walker

They had to perform a series of challenging solos for the examiner. All the girls were awarded Distinction for this, their final graded exam, with marks between 81-93%.

Denny Dance Academy

Congratulations to the 33 students from Denny Dance Academy at Denny High School, many of whom were sitting their first ever dance exam having only studied ballet in school! Eight students gained their Grade 3 Class Award (pictured above), 7 passed the Grade 3 exam, 11 passed Grade 4 and 7 passed Grade 5. The candidates were awarded 9 Pass, 12 Merit and 4 Distinction overall.

Acrobatics exams

Of the 31 students sitting their acrobatics exams, 2 were Commended and 29 were Highly Commended (the top mark!). Special congratulations to the students being Highly Commended for significant awards:

British Medallion: Hayley Fleming, Paige Lipski, Kristina Lowe, Brooke Lipski
Premiere Award: Christina McCall

Tap exams

Only 21 students sat graded tap exams this session from Primary to Grade 5. Results were good with 3 Pass, 8 Merit and 10 Distinctions overall.

You can view a gallery of all our exam candidates on our Facebook page.

No business like showbusiness...!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:07:00 GMT

Over the Easter break, our students have been taking to the stage in a range of productions.

Many of our students take part in theatre groups, children's theatre productions and holiday projects and the past couple of months have been very busy!

Reasons to Dance: Lucy May Lagan (14) was a cast member in the National Theatre of Scotland production whichwas a multi-media site specific performance based on workshops held over a number of months.

Anything Goes: Lynsey Craig joined the company of Boness Amateuar Operatic Society as a dancer in the production and her sister Hannah played "Virtue". The show also starred Mr Clark as a very drunken "Mr Whitney"!

Pirates of Penzance: LAMP Children's Theatre staged the hilarious Gilbert and Sullivan musical during the Easter break with Jenni Allardice, Abbie Cantell, Amber Ibrahim, Anna Johnson, Anna McEwan, Anna McLeod, Catherine Bain, Christina McCall, Hannah Ritchie, Katie McEwan, Mia Musakambeva, Rebecca McFarlane and Sandy Bain taking on a number of principal and chorus roles. Hayley Fleming was the choreographer for the company too! (pictured above)

Oliver!: Sandy Bain took the lead role of "Fagin" in Captivate Drama's Edinburgh production of the Lionel Bart classic.

Oliver!: Falkirk Operatic Society are performing the musical at the end of April. Rehearsing throughout the break have been Christie Brooks, Eve Cattanach, Lucy May Lagan, Serena McCall, Anya Phillips and Romy Phillips. Mr Clark is also starring as "Mr Sowerberry" the undertaker and the role of "Nancy" was due to be played by Amanda Clark who unfortunately had to resign due to injury.

Wizard of Oz: Project Theatre are presenting the show in May. Taking the lead roles in the production are Christie Brooks (Wicked Witch), Polly Greer (Lion), Samantha Niven (Dorothy Understudy), Hannah Reid (Scarecrow) alongside some of our students as dancers and munchkins.

NODA Awards

Many congratulations to Amber Ibrahim, Anna Johnson and Anna McEwan who received their 3-year Award from NODA, the National Operatic and Dramatic Association. Sandy Bain was awarded his 6-year certificate and Amanda Clark will be receiving her 20-year medal.

Starshine sparkles at Scotcheer Nationals

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:30:00 GMT

Starshine cheerleaders brought home a string of awards from the Nationals this weekend!

With many of the squad competing for the first time, they were all very excited and very nervous about performing their routines at the Scotcheer Nationals in Glasgow at the SECC.

Trophies...

On the first day of competition, the team were placed second for Junior Cheer Level 2 and Alessia Fazzone was placed fourth in the Junior Individual Tumble!

The second day was the dance categories and the team performed Pom Dance and Jazz.

Also joining them were the Mini dancers, aged 6-9, who competed in the Hip-Hop and Pom Dance sections of their first ever competition. They were all awarded places in each section:

Mini Pom Dance - Fifth
Mini Hip-Hop - Fifth
Junior Jazz - Fifth
Senior Jazz - Fourth
Senior Pom Dance - Fifth

You can view a gallery of photos from their rehersals and the competition weekend on the Starshine Facebook page.

Well done to all the dancers and many thanks to Coaches Claire and Amanda for their hard work. If you are interested in joining the squad, they would welcome energetic dancers of all ages and abilities, email starshinecheer@yahoo.co.uk

Big steps in the dance world

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 19:20:00 GMT

Some of our students have been making big steps in the world of dance and ballet over the past month...

Here is just a summary of some of their outstanding achievements:

Eva Simanavicius (11): Eva has successfully auditioned for full time training at the Dance School of Scotland in Glasgow. She has also been offered a place at Hammond School and is an Associate with Ballet West.

Alix Cooper (12): Alix (pictured right) has been offered a place to train full time at Tring Park School of Performing Arts and a place on the Pre-Vocational ballet course with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. She is an associate with both Ballet West and Scottish Ballet and was also invited to compete in the Genee Dance Challenge 2011.

Lucy Hutton (12): Following her win at the Royal Academy of Dance Genee Dance Challenge, Lucy was invited to London to perform her solo as a guest artist at the prestigious Phyllis Bedell's Bursary event. She joined winners from other heats and enjoyed a masterclass and tour of the RAD headquarters. Lucy was also awarded the trophy for both Grade 4 level and Best Overall at the RAD Scotland Awards Day.

Jenna Davidson (15): Jenna has recently performed with Errol White Company (Howden Park Residency), Rush Dance Company and U.Dance 2012 (Scottish Platform Event at Macrobert). She successfully auditioned for West Lothian's Higher Dance course and has also gained a place on the Foundation Course with YDance.

Paul Howard (16): Paul has successfully auditioned for the BA in Modern Ballet at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. He is also a Senior Associate with Scottish Ballet.

Many congratulations to them all - we are all very, very proud of their hard work and dedication.

Spring exam session over...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 17:04:00 GMT

Our exam session has now finished so we are leaping on to our dance display routines!

Over 6 days, 178 young dancers aged 5-17 sat exams in ballet, tap and acrobatics, from pre-primary and First Steps to Advanced levels, with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD) and the British Association of Teachers of Dance (BATD). You can view a gallery of the exam candidates on our Facebook page. We were especially delighted that 34 young dancers from Denny High School's Dance Academy sat an exam - some of them had never danced before joining the Academy at High School!

Results..

We expect to receive the results for the ballet and tap exams at the end of the Easter break, but were delighted to be told that all the 22 acrobatics candidates passed their examinations with top marks Some students were Highly Commended for the highest level of acrobatics examination including:

British Medallion: Hayley Fleming, Kristina Lowe, Brooke Lipski, Paige Lipski
Premiere Award: Christina McCall

More hard work ahead...

The children have even more hard work ahead as we begin preparations for our annual dance displays which will be held at the Macrobert Arts Centre from 21-26 June and involve around 800 young dancers of all ages and abilities, from 3-23! Keep up to date with dance display information on our website, venue notice boards and Facebook page.

Boys Only!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 17:28:00 GMT

The RAD is running a dance course with a difference... It's just for boys!

Do you automatically think of pink tightts and tutus when you think of ballet...?

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is running it's second Scottish "Boys Only!" course in Edinburgh in April, dispelling some of the myths and prejudices surrounding the world of ballet and dance. Many previous participants have gone on to join dance classes, ballet classes and even audition for full-time dance training! The course is a lively and energetic weekend of dance which will be great fun for everyone - no pink in sight!

Read some of the feedback from the 2010 event on the Scottish news page of the RAD website.

Who can take part...?

The course is open to boys aged 8-18 with any level of dance experience, from complete beginners to advanced students, and classes will all be led by top male teachers from across Scotland.

When and where..?

14 and 15 April 2012 at Dancebase in Edinburgh

How much is it and how do you apply..?

The course is only £48 for 2 full days. Visit the RAD website for more information or email Katie Hart to apply.

CSBS dancing boys

Pictured above are some of the boys from Central Scotland Ballet School at the 2010 event. We are very proud to have 10 boys in our dance school... Although they are slightly outnumbered by over 750 girls!

We are especially proud of former students Duncan Anderson and Andrew Coleman who are now training on full-time dance courses.

Magical performance at Go Dance 12

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:26:00 GMT

Go Dance is an annual celebration of dance involving dancers from across Scotland.

The festival showcases professional, amateur and community groups of all ages and abilities in a week of performances in the Theatre Royal, Glasgow. We were delighted to be invited to perform for the fourth consecutive year with our Majors dance students.

Wizrard of Oz

Forty-two of our young dancers performed a shortened version of 'The Wizard of Oz' with a revised cast, including:

Hayley Fleming as Dorothy
Rosie Walker as Cowardly Lion
Lucy Hutton as the Good Fairy
Paige Lipski as the Tin Man and Kristina Lowe as the Scarecrow

They had an hour onstage in the morning for a technical and dress rehearsal then the chance to spend the afternoon shopping in Glasgow! They were also delighted to receive a Go Dance t-shirt from Mrs Clark as a thank you for all their hard work.

Many thanks to Jemma Sneddon, Emma Brown and Fiona Phillips who helped chaperone the students throughout the day and did an amazing job with quick changes. Also thanks to the parents who helped at the technical rehearsal and to Morna Macleod our liaison from the Creative Learning department who was super helpful.

Denny High Dance Academy

Also performing on the Saturday night were the dancers from Denny High Dance Academy. They performed hip-hop and contemporary dance pieces which were outstanding... and at times very emotional! We are very proud to work in association with the school and hope to further develop our links over the coming year.

You can view some backstage photos on our Facebook page.

Staff changes this term

Central Scotland Ballet School — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 13:22:00 GMT

Unfortunately, Amanda will not be actively teaching this term due to injury.

She has ruptured her Achilles Tendon and will be in plaster for 3-4 months before beginning a long process of physiotherapy to be able to walk properly and to eventually be able to dance again.

Supply teachers

Her 39 weekly classes will be taken by student teachers and supply teachers and run as normal, with the same teacher in place each week for continuity. Amanda will be present at as many classes as possible to ensure that the children receive the best standard of teaching possible and to help prepare them for exams and displays.

Linlithgow classes - Hazel Kirkwood
Grangemouth classes - Hayley Fleming
Braes classes - Kristina Lowe
Pre-school classes - Fiona Phillips
Advanced tap classes - Olivia McLay

We are still looking for professional teachers to cover the advanced level ballet and jazz classes; thank you for your patience over the next few weeks.

We thank you for all your best wishes and support over this time and hope that the children enjoy working with their new class teachers.

Congratulations Claire!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 10:33:00 GMT

Many congratulations to Starshine cheer coach Claire on her marriage at the weekend!

Claire married Mark McAllister on Saturday 11 February 2012 and we were delighted to celebrate the occasion with her.

Part of our family...

Claire has been dancing with CSBS since she was 2-and-a-half years old and gained her Grade 8 Award and Vocational ballet and tap exams with Distinction. During her training, she also won a number of scholarships and awards and performed across Scotland in both professional and amateur musical theatre and ballet productions. Claire then went on to study PE at University and is a qualified cheer coach, coaching our Starshine Cheerleaders. She has become part of our CSBS family and the Clark's!

The celebration was especially happy for everyone as Claire had spent the past year battling cancer and is now returning to health.

We wish Claire and Mark every happiness in their future together - from everyone at Central Scotland Ballet School xx

SQA accreditation for RAD exams

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 09:29:00 GMT

In January 2012, for the first time ever, RAD graded examinations were accredited by the SQA...

At the RAD Scotland AGM in November 2011, Andrew McBirnie, Director of the RAD Examinations Board announced that it's application to SQA Accreditation for approval as an Awarding Body and for accreditation of its examinations in Scotland had been successful.

Scottish qualifications have different titles, different levels, and different external properties, characteristics and uses than the English system. The next step for the RAD Examinations Board is to progress very quickly to operate on the SCQF (Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework) and also to work with UCAS to ensure that they recognise the ‘Scottish versions’ of RAD exams.

Benefits

Having RAD exams accredited by the SQA is a long awaited step forward for Scottish dance schools. The accreditation adds greater value to these demanding exams for both students, their parents and local mainstream schools. It also recognises the importance of dance as part of children's education by supporting the Scottish government's initiative to encourage more people to dance.

Full story on the RAD website.

*UPDATE FEBRUARY 2012: Andrew McBirnie released this statement from the RAD, "Following the announcement in November 2011 that RAD examinations in Scotland have been accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), and following the first awarding of these new qualifications in January 2012, the RAD is pleased to announce that the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) have confirmed that these new qualifications will be subsumed within the UCAS points tariff on the same basis as their QCF counterparts. UCAS have indicated that their website will be updated to reflect this within a few weeks."

Pictured above: Mia highlights the SQA accreditation logo on her examination certificate

New ballet syllabus launched

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:52:00 GMT

On 3 January 2012, the Royal Academy of Dance launched the new Grades 1-3 syllabi in London.

CSBS teacher, Amanda-Louise Clark attended the launch with over 500 UK delegates at the Mermaid Conference & Events Centre in London.

Dance for the child

RAD Artistic Director Lynn Wallis highlighted the importance of the syllabi as being relevant to the child of today and RAD Music Development Manager Jonathan Still spoke of the inspiration behind the music and the excitment of recording the score using a full orchestra!

A range of exercises from the syllabi were demonstrated by young students and Paula Hunt, Chair of the Panel of Examiners explained the creativity and musicality underpinning the choreography and key assessment features for each exercise. It was very evident that it will effectively progress and develop skills from the Pre-Primary and Primary grades and build up toward the new Vocational Grades launched in 2011.

Introducing the new syllabus in our own timetable

Students already in Grades 1-3 will be completing their study of the old syllabus in order to achieve their examination by November 2012. The new Grades 1-3 syllabus will be gradually introduced at different levels across each branch from January 2012 - which means that some students may spend a little longer than usual at a certain level due to the change over period.

Our staff will be attending intensive training courses in February, April and July to learn the new syllabus. It looks like lots of fun but even more hard work!

New Grades 1-3 DVD clip from RAD on Vimeo.

Photo: RAD Enterprises Ltd.

New Year ballet treat!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:06:00 GMT

We wish all our students past and present, their families, our staff, and everyone associated with CSBS all the best for 2012!

We thank everyone for their hard work and support throughout 2011 and look forward to an exciting year packed with exams, displays, workshops and a new ballet syllabus!

Here is a little ballet video treat to welcome in the New Year...

With best wishes from the Clark Family.

Exams results are here...!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:04:00 GMT

Many congratulations to all our exam candidates on their excellent results...

We had over 150 young dancers enter for exams in the winter session and we are once again very proud of their hard work and excellent results.

ISTD Tap exams

This was our first session entering students for the newly revised syllabus, from Primary to Grade 3 and Grades 6 and Intermediate. Overall, the students gained 6 Pass, 23 Merit and 10 Distinctions. A special congratulations to the students who gained over 80% for their exam:

Primary: Hollie Crooks 84%, Laura Cummings 81%, Sarah Firth 84%
Grade 1: Anna Makin 85%
Grade 2: Adela Mayers 84%, Becky Morely 87%
Grade 3: Polly Greer 80%, Anna McEwan 82%, Mia Musakambeva 83%, Keira Paterson 84%

RAD Ballet Exams

Well done to the 22 little stars who gained their Pre-Primary Class Award, the first level of the graded exam system. Of the 84 students sitting graded exams from Primary to Grade 7, 2 gained Pass, 49 Merit and 34 Distinction.

A very special well done to the children who sat their Primary exam. Two gained their Class Award while 12 were awarded Merit and a silver medal, and 18 were awarded Distinction and a gold medal. An extra congratulations to the girls who gained over 80% for their first exam:

Jessica Brown 80%, Hazel Brown 81%, Hollie Crooks 81%
Emma Fish 82%, Sarah Firth 83%, Anya Phillips 93%

We are very proud of the Grade 6 students, who all gained Distinction. Outstanding results from some graded students gaining over 80% for their exam:

Grade 2: Katy Russell 81%
Grade 3: Lauren Newlands 80%
Grade 6: Megan O'Neill 84%

You can view a gallery of photos from the exams on our Facebook page. Our next exam session is the first week in March... More hard work for everyone!

Parent's Days, Progress and Prizes

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:06:00 GMT

Our annual Parent's Days and prize givings were very successful again this year...

Parents were invited to watch their child's dance classes during the last week of the term. Awards were made for 100% attendance and for significant progress over the past year.

Over the four branches, we awarded a total of 86 improvement trophies, 4 overall trophies, 73 certificates and just over 100 attendance badges!

Overall trophy winners

A trophy was awarded at each branch to the student who had made the most outstanding progress over the year. We were especially delighted that 2 of the 4 recipients were boys!

Andrew Halliday (South Queensferry)
Adam Smith (Linlithgow)
Caitlin Frickleton (Braes)
Eva Dickson (Grangemouth)

You can view a gallery of prizewinners on our Facebook page. Many congratulations to everyone for their hard work over the past year.

Winter Raffle Winners

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:01:00 GMT

Many thanks to everyone who bought a ticket for our Winter Raffle... And congratulations to the winners!

The list of prizes, winners and winning tickets is below, but you can download a full size copy to view. Prize winners can collect their prize in class in January or alternatively, arrange collection during the break. Many thanks to the many people who donated the fabulous prizes!

Hopefully, we will have a total of the money raised soon and will let you know!

Fabulous prizes in our Winter Raffle...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:10:00 GMT

We are delighted to have a fantastic range of donated prizes in our fundraising winter Raffle.

Tickets are available to purchase for just £1 from your class teacher, with each branch having a different colour ticket so that there will be 4 separate draws. Prizes include:

10-class Zumba pass donated by 'Zumba with Suzanne'
Haircuts donated by Marky's Barbers
Family panto ticket to "Jackie and the Beanstalk" donated by MacRobert Arts Centre
Royal Academy of Dance merchandise donated by RAD Scotland
Family swim passes donated by Linlithgow Leisure Centre
A personal Christmas Eve visit from Santa donated by Splat!
£25 gift voucher donated by Piccolina Childrenswear
Ballet poster donated by Leask Photography
CSBS merchandise donated by Make Your Marque and CSBS
Plus a range of gift sets, chocolates etc.

Free dance classes...

The main prize for each branch is a voucher to cover the fees for next term. There is one on offer for each branch!

The raffle will be drawn on 22 December and winners will be notified by phone and posted online. Please write your child's name on the ticket stub.

Great fun for Pyjama Week!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 09:29:00 GMT

To celebrate the end of our Graded Exam session, we had a relaxed and fun week of fundraising classes... in our pyjamas!

Over the whole week, students of all ages came to class in their pyjamas and took part in non-syllabus dance classes. Special events over the week included filming dances in fancy dress, repertoire classes, Zumba and cheerleading, as well as having parents join in with preschool classes, ballet and jazz!

Fundraising...

Many thanks to the many students who gave a donation at their class. We raised £803 for our Dance Fund which is used to subsidise events such as the Sparkle Party, Choreography Competition, Majors dance rehearsals and transport for trips and competitions.

Thanks...

A special thanks to our guest teachers and our own staff for their effort over the week. We welcomed professional ballet dancer and former student Vicki Paterson to teach repertoire in various ballet classes, Suzanne Crooks for a Zumba class with the Senior Jazz dancers and Sammy Clark came with Baby Charlie to teach some of the Junior ballet and jazz classes. The South Queensferry Jazz classes also enjoyed cheerleading workshops with Starshine Cheerleaders. Our own staff spent the whole week in their pyjamas leading a wide range of fun classes - thanks to Mrs Clark, Amanda, Diane, Paula, Hazel, and our student teachers, Kristina, Hayley and Rosie.

We were also delighted to have lots of mums, dads, brothers and sisters join in with pre-school ballet and Junior to Novice Jazz classes. It was lots of fun with lots of laughter!

Please watch the slideshow of photos from the week below or see the full gallery on our Facebook page.

It's Pyjama Week!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 12:35:00 GMT

To celebrate the end of our exam session, we are having a week of fun, fundraising classes... In our pyjamas!

Dance with a difference...

Children will still have their regular dance class but with even more fun than usual! It will give them a chance to relax after the incredible amount of hardwork they have put into preparing for exams. All students are invited to come to class wearing their pyjamas with their dance shoes and a £1 donation for our Dance Fund.

Parents are invited too...!

Parents are invited to join in classes as part of the fun. You will get to experience first-hand what you child does in their class (although pyjamas are optional!) and are guaranteed both a good laugh and a workout! Please bring a £1 donation.

Branch/Venue	Parents can join in...
BRAES: Brightons Community Hall	Pre-school Ballet / Novice 1 and 2 Jazz
BRAES: Maddiston Community Centre	Junior and Inter 1 Jazz
BRAES: Reddingmuirhead Hall	Teenyboppers Jazz
LINLITHGOW: Leisure Centre	All Wednesday ballet classes from Pre-school to Primary
GRANGEMOUTH: Town Hall	Pre-school Ballet / Junior, Novice 1, Novice 2 and Inter Jazz
Q'FERRY: Community Centre	Pre-school Ballet / All jazz classes (Junior-Novice 2)

Other events include cheer workshops, Zumba, film making, guest teachers and a raffle with everyone invited to join in.

Venue / Time	Special Event
Brightons Community Hall, Friday 5.45-6.30pm	ZUMBA class... open to everyone age 13+ and parents
Reddingmuirhead Hall, Monday	Grade 8 filming alternative dances
Rosebery Halls, Saturday 10-10.45am	Cheerleading workshops for Inter 1 Jazz or P6-7
Rosebery Halls, Saturday 11.30-12.15pm	Cheerleading workshops for Inter 2 Jazz or S1+
t.b.c.	Ballet repertoire workshops with Vicki Paterson

Have fun everyone and keep up to date with events on our Facebook page!

Exam session begins...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 09:43:00 GMT

Our Winter examination session is now underway with over 150 children preparing for dance exams.

Tap exams

On Sunday 6 November, the Senior tappers (pictured right) headed to Bathgate to sit their Grade 6 and Intermediate Tap exams with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD).

On Friday 11 November, thirty-six students aged from 7-15 will be sitting exams from Primary to Grade 3 level. This is the first session we have entered students for the newly revised and very challenging Grades 2-3 so we are keeping our fingers crossed!

RAD Ballet exams and Pyjama Week...

We have a full week off from Monday 14-Saturday 19 November to accommodate our Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams. Over 100 children will be examined, from their first Pre-Primary level up to Grade Seven. During the week, there are also intensive exam preparation classes for our Majors students who are entering the demanding Vocational Graded ballet exams at Intermediate Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced Foundation levels later in the month.

To celebrate the end of the exam session, our first week back (21-26 November) will be our fun and fundraising "Pyjama Week". Children will come to their class in their PJs with a £1 donation and have a relaxed and fun dance class. Parents are invited to join in Junior classes and there will be guest teachers for Seniors as well as raffles etc.

We wish everyone all the best with their exams and thank parents for the support they are giving their children with extra practise both at home and at additional classes.

Business Award winners... second year in a row!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:31:00 GMT

Central Scotland Ballet School has scooped a prestigious local business award...

We were presented with the award for "Best website/ecommerce" in the Falkirk Herald Business Awards sponsored by RBS at a glittering black-tie awards ceremony. The evening was hosted by television personality Kaye Adams and guests included businesses from all sectors.

Excellent feedback

The judges were looking for a website which encompasses excellence in content, navigation, functionality and interactivity. Entrants were also judged on how well they use the worldwide web to promote themselves, making use of the internet to widen their profile and increase sales. Our feedback from the judges was extremely positive. They were particularly impressed by the way we have embraced Social Media to complement our website and strengthen our business. Our live broadcasts during the severe weather last year were also highly commended as innovative and successful along with the introduction of our new online shop.

Thank you...

We must thank Cameron Leask of Escrivo Internet Consulting who initially built our website and has been our mentor throughout our online adventures. Congratulations also to our own Amanda-Louise Clark (pictured above) who manages the CSBS website and all our social media on a daily basis. Another 'thank you' to all the parents and students who regularly use our website, videos and Facebook pages and contributed to our success in these awards.

Dancers in Disney musical

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:23:00 GMT

We are delighted to have 3 young dancers and a member of staff taking to the stage in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" musical during the school break.

Students Catherine Bain (8), Christina McCall (15) and Hayley Fleming (16) are performing as dancers and chorus members alongside CSBS teacher Amanda-Louise Clark in a local production of the spectacular musical. Also in the show are a number of 'ballet mums and dads', including our very own Mr Clark!

LAMP transforms Linlithgow Academy

The show is being staged by Linlithgow Amateur Musical Productions (LAMP) from Monday 17-Saturday 22 October in Linlithgow Academy. The school theatre is being totally transformed to recreate one of Disney's most well-loved productions, complete with tavern, village, castle, a spectacular transformation and, of course, a cast of singing and dancing household objects!

Tickets can be purchased online or visit the website for alternative booking details: www.linlithgow-musicals.co.uk

We wish everyone in the production the best of luck for the show and look forward to watching the company recreate some Disney magic.

A little star is born

Central Scotland Ballet School — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 08:58:00 GMT

We are delighted to announce that one of our Directors, Sammy Clark, has had a baby boy!

Baby Charlie was born on Wednesday 28 September weighing 9lb 2oz.

All doing well

Sammy, Charlie and Mark are all doing well (although very tired!) and were able to come home late Thursday evening. On their behalf, we would like to thank everyone for their best wishes, cards and gifts. We are sure Charlie will visit the dance classes soon!

Congratulations to Sammy and Mark and to Charlie's big sisters, Hayley and Emily!

Ballet Award Success

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 22:16:00 GMT

Two young CSBS dancers have been awarded prizes at the RAD Junior Awards Day.

The bi-annual competition attracted around 150 talented young ballet dancers from across Scotland. Over the day, they took part in repertoire, cheer and musical theatre workshops and were judged in their ballet lesson by Kenny Burke (Dance School of Scotland).

We were delighted to have 7 students gain a place at the event, with two being awarded prizes.

Caroline Newlands Memorial Award

This award is presented to the student who shows the most enjoyment and performance in the ballet class over the whole day. It is named in memory of a Scottish RAD teacher. The award was presented to Katy Russell (8) who competed in the Grade 2 class. (Katy pictured above receiving her award from Kenny Burke)

Double honour

Lucy Hutton (12) competed in the Grade 4 class and was presented with the trophy for her level. She was then named as the winner of £200 RAD vouchers for being the best overall from the whole day! The vouchers can be used against future RAD events across the UK. (Lucy pictured below receiving her prizes)

Very well done to you both!

Hayley Fleming (Student teacher)

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 23:23:00 GMT

We are delighted to welcome Hayley Fleming as a student teacher.

Hayley has been training with Central Scotland Ballet School since the age of 4. She has acheived outstanding results in all her exams in ballet, jazz, tap and acrobatics. She is now studying all dance styles at Advanced levels. She will be moving onto full-time dance training in September 2012.

She is our 2011 Millennium Trophy winner and has also won numerous medals, awards and scholarships at festivals and competitions. Hayley is a national prizewinner with Starshine Cheerleaders and was one of five CSBS students selected to represent Scotland in the World Cheer and Dance Championships in Florida 2010.

She has danced onboard 2 cruise ships and as part of a hip-hop crew in PortAventura, Spain. She has also appeared as a dancer and principal in ballet, dance and musical theatre productions across Scotland, including 'Mrs Wilkinson' in the Scottish amateur premiere of "Billy Elliot". Hayley has been appointed as choreographer for LAMP Children's Theatre 2012 production.

We are sure our young dancers will love Hayley's cheerful and energetic personality and be inspired by her talent. From February-June 2012, Hayley will be covering Amanda's Grangemouth classes.

Live online preschool ballet class

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 11:47:00 GMT

On Saturday 17 September, we will be broadcasting a preschool ballet lesson live online...

The broadcast will be streamed live at 9.30am and last for approximately 20 minutes. Parents can join in with their children in the comfort of their own home!

Creative ballet

Our preschool ballet lessons follow guidelines from the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and introduce movement in a fun way using music and storytelling. The lesson begins with a simple warm up to promote listening, following instructions, body awareness and coordination and is followed this term by "The Zoo".

Each of the animals at the zoo has it's own way of moving and these simple exercises introduce or reinforce listening skills, imagination and gross motor skills in preparation for more complex range of movement ideas in the next term. You will need to have some props ready... anything that could be used as butterfly wings (e.g. tissues, socks, scarves).

You can watch the broadcast below or through our Facebook page or on our Livestream channel. Happy dancing!

Watch live streaming video from centralscotlandballetschool at livestream.com

Goodbye to our Advanced students...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 09:35:00 GMT

As we head into our third week of term, we are sad to say a final farewell to many of our advanced students as they leave to train full-time across the UK.

Our talented young dancers spent months auditioning for dance courses across the UK and begin their new schools over the next 2 weeks. A big group hug to:

Jemma Sneddon: Jemma (17) is the only Scottish student to be accepted onto the 3-year BA Modern Ballet Course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly RSAMD). With CSBS, she has performed across Scotland as well as Spain and the Meditteranean and gained her Advanced ballet with Merit and Grade 8 Award with Distinction. Jemma was a Senior Associate with Scottish Ballet and Ballet West and also danced the role of 'Dorothy' in our ballet adaptation of "The Wizard of Oz". (Above: CSBS Director Mrs Jacqueline Clark with Jemma)
Emma Buckie and Anna Fulton: Emma (18) and Anna (16) both gained a place on the 3-year BA classical Ballet and Dance course at Ballet West in Taynuilt. They were both members of our Majors programme and class helpers and also performed across the world. Both girls gained their Advanced ballet with Merit and Grade 8 Award with Distinction as well as Distinction for Intermediate Modern.
Annie Gaffney: Annie (18) was also accepted onto the 3-year course at Ballet West. Annie has danced across Scotland and in Spain and is a member of our Majors programme. She has gained her Grade 6 and Intermediate ballet with Merit.
Catriona McAndrew: Catriona (12) has gained a place to train full-time for 6 years at the Dance School of Scotland in Glasgow. With CSBS, Catriona gained her Grade 4 ballet with 90% and was also accepted into the Junior Associate programmes with Scottish Ballet and Ballet West. She also attended short courses across the UK.
Andrew Coleman: Andrew (16) has been awarded a scholarship to train for 3-years at Northern Ballet School in Manchester. Andrew was a popular class helper and member of our Majors programme, gaining his Intermediate ballet with Merit. He has performed across Scotland in many dance and theatre productions including "Romeo and Juliet" and "Billy Elliot".

Former students moving onward and upward...

We are delighted to keep in touch with our former students, many of whom are continuing to dance. Congratulations to the following young dancers who are taking big steps this year:

Duncan Anderson: At the age of 12, Duncan gained a place at the Dance School of Scotland. Following 4 years of training, he has now successfully auditioned for a coveted place at Rambert School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance in London. Many congratualtions Duncan!
Katie Deacon: Katie graduated from Central School of Ballet in June after a 3 year BA Hons course. She has successfully auditioned for Ballet Ireland and begins touring soon!
Christina Duncan and Kaitlin Forsyth: Both girls have recently completed their 2-year HND Dance at Telford College and have both successfully auditioned for the BA (Hons) Dance course. They were both students on our Majors programme and gained their Grade 6 Ballet.
Natasha Watson: Natasha (15) moved to train with Ballet West earlier in the year and has since gained her Advanced 1 Ballet exam with 91%. She was a Senior Associate with Scottish Ballet, Ballet West and Royal Ballet School and won many awards and competitions as well as gaining consistently outstanding exam results.
Justine Lim: Justine gained a BA (Hons) Dance from Telford College and then a coveted place at Laban where she has just graduated with a OYP Diploma in Dance Studies. She is heading to China for 6 months to train in Tai Chi... Good luck Justine!

Andrew scoops dance scholarship!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 17:55:00 GMT

CSBS senior dance student, Andrew Coleman, has been awarded a full scholarship to the Northern Ballet School.

Andrew (16) had filled his summer break with summer courses and performances including starring in the "GLEE Experience" at the Edinburgh Playhouse and a summer school with the Northern Ballet School.

On only the second day of the Northern Ballet School (NBS) course, he was asked if he would accept a full scholarship to train at the Manchester based school full-time. On his return home to Scotland, he discovered that he had also been awarded a part-scholarship to train full-time at the MGA Acdemy of Performing Arts in Edinburgh!

During the 3-year NBS course, he will train intensively in a range of dance styles including ballet, jazz and musical theatre and will graduate with a Diploma in Professional Dance.

Performing across Scotland and the world...

Andrew is a student on Majors ballet programme and recently passed his RAD Intermediate ballet exam with Merit. He also studies Grade 6 ballet, jazz, tap and modern and is a member of LAMP Children's Theatre as well as being a Senior Associate on the Aspiring Professional programme with Ballet West. He is also the only boy in our Starshine cheer squad!

Andrew has performed across Scotland with Ballet West ('Nutcracker', 'Romeo and Juliet' Scottish tour). With Central Scotland Ballet School he has performed at a wide range of events in Stirling, Glasgow and Falkirk including dancing the role of "The Sorcerer" in our ballet adaptation of 'Aladdin'. He has danced as part of a hip-hop crew in Portaventura (Spain) and was dance captain for LAMP's 2010 production of "42nd Street". In 2009, he danced the role of 'Older Billy' in the Scottish amateur premiere of "Billy Elliot: The Musical" as part of the UK Billy Youth Festival.

We will miss him...

Andrew is a popular member of our classes and his unique sense of humour will be greatly missed! We are sorry that we were unable to say a proper goodbye at the displays but wish him all the best for his future as a dancer.

Good luck Andrew!

Shop Now Open!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 22:32:00 GMT

Saturday 20 August is a VERY exciting day for Central Scotland Ballet School...

As well as being the first day of our new term, we have launched a new online shop!

CSBS Supplies on the web!

From the 20th, students of Central Scotland Ballet School and their parents will be able to purchase all their dance uniform through our website.

The shop has been developed by Escrivo Internet Consulting working closely with one of our Directors, Amanda-Louise Clark. After registering, you can browse the store and add your selections to your basket before checking out securely online. Anyone unable to order online for any reason will be able to print an order form and place their order, with payment, in class. All purchased items will be delivered to the student in class.

Benefits...

Hopefully, by encouraging people to order online we will considerably reduce the amount of admin time required at the beginning and end of lessons. Our staff spend a lot of time dealing with dancewear enquiries and more time can now be devoted to teaching. Teachers will not have to handle as much money and parents will not have to queue up to place orders!

Fun at the photo shoot...

Many thanks to our models and their parents and to Alan Potter of Stagepics for a fun evening taking photos of the uniform. You can watch a short video of the shoot here and see some of the photos on our Facebook page!

Hazel Kirkwood (HND Dance)

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 21:35:00 GMT

We welcome back former CSBS student Miss Hazel Kirkwood as a student teacher.

Following 15 years of dance training with Central Scotland Ballet School, Hazel went on to train full-time at Ballet West for 2 years, gaining an HND in Professional Stage Dance.

With CSBS, Hazel gained her Intermediate exam and Grade 8 Award with Merit from the Royal Academy of Dance and was a student on our Majors Programme. She performed in ballet productions across Scotland as well as dancing on MSC Opera in the Meditteranean and as part of a hip-hop team in Portaventura, Spain.

During her training with Ballet West, Hazel performed with the company in their Scottish Tour 2010, 'Nutcracker' China Tour 2010, 'Nutcracker' Scottish Tour 2011 and 'Romeo and Juliet' Scottish Tour 2011.

Hazel will be covered a wide of ballet and jazz classes at our Grangemouth, Braes and South Queensferry branches during Samantha's maternity leave and from February-June 2012, Hazel will be covering Amanda's Linlithgow and South Queensferry classes.

Lucy wins Genee Dance challenge

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 14:27:00 GMT

South Queensferry student Lucy Hutton won the Level 3 category of the Royal Academy of Dance 'Genee Dance Challenge'.

Lucy (11) was invited to take part at the last minute, and with only 4 rehearsals to choreograph and rehearse her solo, she travelled to Birmingham to compete in the Level 3 category open to students from across the UK in Intermediate Foundation - Intermediate ballet grades and under 15 years old.

The Genee Challenge Competition

The RAD national competition gives young dance students the opportunity to explore creativity, perform in front of an audience and receive coaching and constructive feedback. Over the 2 day event, she had ballet classes with Royal Academy of Dance teacher Jill Firth, a music workshop, coaching on her solo, dress rehearsal, and a chance to meet a professional dancer fom the Birmingham Royal Ballet. The final performance was in front of an audience of parents and dance teachers and judged by Lynn Wallis, Artistic Director of the RAD.

Although she was the youngest in her group, Lucy gained the most points from judge Lynn Wallis and won a trip to London with a ballet masterclass. She follows in the footsteps of CSBS student Natasha Watson who won the competition in 2010. (Lucy pictured above with Jill Firth and Lynn Wallis)

A full list of winners from the Birmingham heat is available on the RAD website.

Well done Lucy, we are all very proud of you!

Exam results arrive... Well done again!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 14:37:00 GMT

Only a few days after our dance displays, a number of students sat their ballet and tap exams... The results have arrived!

We had a 100% pass rate again with all candidates awarded Merits and Distinctions!

Royal Academy of Dance Graded Exams

Thirteen students sat their RAD graded exams in Grades 1, 2, 5, 7 and 8. They gained 4 Merits and 9 Distinctions. Special congratulations to Jemma Sneddon (17) who gained her Grade 8 Award with Distinction (81%). (Pictured right with Mrs Clark)

A special well done also to the students who were awarded over 80 % for their ballet exam:

Grade 5: Amber Ibrahim 80% / Eva Dickson 85%
Grade 7: Adele Cook 83% / Kristina Lowe 89%

We were very proud of our twenty-eight students from our partner Denny Dance Academy at Denny High School who gained their Grade 3 and Grade 4 Class Award from the Royal Academy of Dance. This is a great achievement as many of them have only been dancing for 2 or 3 years! (pictured below)

Vocational exams

We also had 4 students sit challenging Vocational Graded exams in tap and ballet. Well done to Emma Buckie and Paige Lipski who both gained their ISTD Intermediate tap with Merit and to Andrew Coleman for gaining his Intermediate ballet with Merit, and finally, Kristina Lowe who gained her Advanced Foundation ballet with Merit. Excellent results!

The next exam session is November so keep practising everyone!

Dance into summer

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:59:00 GMT

The summer break is a chance for our young dancers to take part in even more fun dance activities!

Although our regular classes have finished for the summer, we have a range of fun classes to suit all ages and abilities. Including:

Summer Boogie for ages 5-9 (P1-4)
Dance Maniacs Junior for ages 9-12 (P4-7)
Dance Maniacs for ages 12+ (S1-4)
Project Dance for Grades 6+ and Majors

Each programme includes a selection of classes of ballet, jazz, craft, theatre, creative dance, contemporary and more! You can find out more by visiting the Holiday Dance page.

Dance courses across Scotland and the UK

Over the summer months, there are a wide range of dance and theatre activities across Scotland and the UK for all ages and abilities, from pre-school to advanced. You can find a list of summer dance activities on our Facebook Events page to give all our students the opportunity to take part. Workshops and courses with other dance professionals and organisations is a valuable part of a young dancers training.

Cruise performance in July 2012

There is also the chance to dance onboard a cruise liner in next year's summer break, July 2012. More cruise performer details on our Facebook page. If you are interested, you need to apply NOW by contacting Mrs Clark.

Thank you...

And just a personal note from all the CSBS staff to thank everyone for the lovely cards, flowers and gifts we each received at the end-of-term. We were really touched by some of the letters, comments and messages from parents and students and wish you all a very safe and happy holiday.

Dance displays... what did you think?

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 10:37:00 GMT

Involving almost 700 young dancers over 6 sell-out performances, our "Blast from the Past" shows were superb. We have already had lots of positive feedback from students and parents...

"Well done, another amazing CSBS show! Well done & a huge thank you to all the teachers, you all do an amazing job & must have the patience of a saint! Charley & Erin had an absolute ball! Thanks again!" (Parent of pre-schoolers)

"Was fantastic, well done to all staff and pupils for such an entertaining and professional show. Wizard of Oz was magical!" (Carla Duggan, Principal: Dance Connections)

"Fantastic shows, little stars definitely shone but also a huge thank u to staff of CSBS as the shows would not have been possible without them so thank u guys x x...full steam ahead for next year!" (Parent of Senior student)

Tell us what you think...

Your feedback is very important to us. Please add your comments to the books at each venue. We love to read all the lovely positive stories, and the constructive comments help us to improve our displays each year, for example:

In 2009 some people said, "The younger children get bored backstage in the second half"... The junior dances were always in the first half so that they could leave at interval if necessary, but we moved some of the Junior dances into the second half and it has been very successful.

Last year some people said, "The changes between dances were too short. It was stressful backstage"... We tried to arrange the programme so that each class had more time to change. The quick change areas have allocated helpers throughout the shows.

Last year some people said, "The changing rooms were too full" and "There was no communication and no-one knew where to go"... Although we always prepare and display plans and notices in advance and speak to parents, we made a greater effort to display signage backstage and in the theatre. We had more staff in Junior changing areas as well as registers for pre-school children. We brought more children downstairs into the communal changing area to give Seniors more space, and provided additional changing space for boys and pre-school dancers. The changing areas will always be very busy.

Last year someone said, "It was ridiculous that dads were asked to leave the changing area..."... We also received many complaints that dads were in the changing area. The communal changing area has a wide age range and unfortunately, it is not considered appropriate for men to help in this area. Any dads who arrived to help their child backstage were allowed to change them in the pre-school area which was also supervised by CSBS staff. We value the help of all parents backstage.

Thank you...

Many thanks to all the parents, ex-students and Senior students who gave up their time to help backstage. With special thanks to those who helped at every branch display: Fiona Phillips, Margaret Walker, Emma Brown, Laura McEwan, Jennifer Lipski, Audrey Cook, Dianne Lowe, Amanda Moir, Sandra Bain, Jo Bowley, Alison Bryson, Sharon Rutherford, Linda Buckie (and any I've missed!?!?!).

Dance displays blast off...!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:17:00 GMT

Our 2011 dance display "Blast from the Past" has hit the stage at the MacRobert Arts Centre.

Students from our South Queensferry, Linlithgow and Grangemouth branches have now performed their routines to sell-out audiences and huge applause. We have already had lots of positive feedback from students, parents and other teachers, especially about how smoothly the show runs (which is thanks to the parent and student helpers backstage!). Many parents have told us that the new costumes we invested in this year look stunning onstage and how much they enjoyed the Majors student's version of "The Wizard of Oz".

More shows...

Our Braes branch display is on Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 June at MacRobert and, on Wednesday, our partner Denny Dance Academy has their end-of-year dance display at Denny High School too!

Photographs and DVDs

Leask photography took stage shots at each dress rehearsal and has some beautiful portrait and art prints coming soon... You can visit the Leask photography website and view a small selection on their Facebook page.

You can order a copy of the DVD from your class teacher if you did not order one at the show. (Note: The DVDs usually take some time to arrive.)

Good luck to the students performing in the last two shows and well done again to everyone who has already danced!

Countdown to dance display...!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:46:00 GMT

Only one week to go until our dance display 2011 takes to the stage...

"Blast from the Past" will be at the MacRobert Arts Centre from Saturday 4-Tuesday 7 June with 6 performances involving almost 700 young dancers. They have been rehearsing routines for the past 8 weeks and everyone is getting very excited!

Tickets and other stuff...

Tickets are selling fast so book your seat now! You can phone Albert at the MacRobert Box Office on 01786 466 666 or book your tickets online.

Parents and students can keep up to date with information on our dance display page.

Finale

After the bows, the whole cast join in a simple, fun routine and ask the audience to join in! One of our little stars, 3 year old Emma, demonstrates the dance in the video below so that everyone (including the audience!) can practice at home...

If you have any other queries, please contact us.

Local Hero Awards

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 17 May 2011 13:03:00 GMT

Cheer coach Claire Smith, was a finalist in the Central FM Local Hero Awards 2011.

Claire (21) was nominated for the "Teacher/trainer of the year" category and was selected by judges, from hundreds of nominations, as a finalist. She was nominated for her determination and dedication throughout her diagnosis and treatment for cancer over the past year.

During her illness, she has resolutely attended rehearsals and also accompanied the team of Starshine cheerleaders to their first National competition. She has proved an inspiration to her young dancers.

Awards Ceremony

The formal ceremony and presentation was held at Airth Castle Hotel with entertainment by Gamu and Chesney Hawkes! Joining Claire at the Awards were CSBS Director, Amanda-Louise Clark and Starshine Team Captain, Kristina Lowe (pictured above with Claire).

During a very emotional and inspiring evening, Claire was placed as runner-up in her category. More photos of the event are in the Starshine Cheerleaders Facebook gallery.

We wish Claire all the best for a speedy recovery as her treatment continues.

Choreography Competition 2011

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 09 May 2011 12:10:00 GMT

Sequins, hairspray, glitter and funky new dance moves... Our Choreography Competition 2011 was a great success!

Fifty-two young dancers aged 5-17, performed solos, duets and group dances onstage. They had choreographed their own routines in ballet, pointe, character, jazz, hip-hop, tap and acrobatics with their own choice of music and costumes.

We were delighted to welcome as judges, Frances Lalos (Former principal Edinburgh Dance Centre), former CSBS student Beth Donnelly (Team Scotland 2009), and CSBS acrobatics teacher Diane Dagger. They were very impressed by the extremely high standard shown in all the categories, particularly in the ballet and Senior sections.

Medal winners and certificates

Every competitor was presented with a certificate for each routine they had performed, 99 certificates were presented plus an additional one to little Emmy Phillips (4) who was so keen to be onstage like her sisters that she demonstrated a short ballet routine herself! Forty-five medals were presented in total by the judges.

Trophy winners

The Millennium Trophy for the most outstanding performer of the day was awarded to Hayley Fleming (16) (pictured above). The "Spirit of Dance Award" for musicality and performance was awardeded to Mia Musakambeva (13). (Both girls pictured below with the judging panel)

You can download a complete list of the prizewinners here or Visit our Facebook page for photos of some of the medal winners

Top marks for tap, modern and acrobatics!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:11:00 GMT

The results are in for our recent tap, modern and acrobatics exams... And they are great!

Tap exams with the ISTD

We had a small session of tap exams with 17 students sitting Primary and Grades 1, 4 and 5. Overall, they gained 1 Pass, 6 Merits and 9 Distinctions (over 80%). Some of the marks were particularly outstanding:

PRIMARY - Anya Phillips 87%
GRADE 5 - Sophie Wallace 86% / Dayna Lipski and Nichole Cook 88% / Chloe Coyle 90%

Special congratulation to Rosie Walker (15) who gained her Advanced 1 Tap with a very high Merit pass (75%). She is the first student from our school to reach this level, with the exception of CSBS teacher Amanda Clark!

Fantastic results for Acrobatics...

Forty students sat medal tests and exams for acrobatics, from the little First Steps to the highest levels of Gold and Blue Riband. Overall they were awarded 1 Commended and the rest Highly Commended which is the top mark (equivalent to Distinction).

Modern vocational grades

Some of our Senior students complement their ballet training with the technical ISTD Vocational Modern grades. Well done to Caitlin Frickleton (Merit), Chloe Coyle (Merit) and Andrew Coleman (Distinction) who all gained their Intermediate Foundation.

Excellent ballet exam results...!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:11:00 GMT

Congratulations to all our students who recently sat RAD ballet exams; the results are now in and everyone passed with very high marks!

Outstanding ballet results

Ninety students sat graded ballet exams, gaining 51 Merit and 39 Distinction. Two little budding ballerinas gained their Pre-Primary Class Award while, of the 14 children sitting the Primary Grade exam, 7 were awarded a silver medal (Merit) and 7 were awarded gold (Distinction).

Special congratulations to Emma Buckie (17) who gained her Grade 8 Award with Distinction.

Top marks...

We are very proud of all our students, but have an extra 'well done' to the students who were awarded over 80% for their performances:

GRADE 3 - Lucy Hutton 85%
GRADE 4 - Alisa Robertson 86% / Alix Cooper 86% / Catriona McAndrew 90% / Catriona Kemp 90% / Sarah MacNeill 85%
GRADE 5 - Chloe Coyle 85% / Dayna Lipski 87% / Nichole Cook 82%
GRADE 6 - Chloe Dickson 80%
GRADE 7 - Hayley Fleming 87%
PRIMARY - Amy Anderson 82% / Robyn Byrne 88% / Ellie Young 93%

Vocational ballet exams

These exams are more demanding and challenging than the graded syllabus. Well done to the girls for their excellent results:

Intermediate Foundation: Jenna Davidson / Eva Dickson (Merit)
Intermediate: Chloe Dickson (Merit) / Annie Gaffney (Merit) / Christina McCall (Merit)
Advanced Foundation: Anna Fulton (Merit) / Emma Buckie (Merit) / Jemma Sneddon (Merit) / Paige Lipski (Merit)

Well done to everyone for your hard work and effort.

Stars shine in 'Forty-Second Street'

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 08:07:00 GMT

We are delighted to have a number of students spending their Easter break performing in the dazzling musical, "42nd Street"...

The show is being staged by Linlithgow Amateur Musical Productions (LAMP) Children's Theatre in Linlithgow Academy from 11-16 April and follows last year's sell-out production of "Billy Elliot".

Forty-Second Street features many well known dance numbers, including, "Lullaby of Broadway", "42nd Street" and "Shuffle of to Buffalo". The LAMP production will see the whole company tap dancing!

Good Luck to...

We send everyone in the production a "Break-a-leg" wish with an extra special good luck to our students playing principal roles:

Anna MacLeod (Peggy Sayer), Sandy Bain (Billy Lawler)
Hayley Fleming (Andi Lee), Christina McCall (Anytime Annie)
Anna McEwan (Lorraine Fleming), Anna Johnston (Phyllis Dale), Eva Dickson (Gladys)

We are very proud that some of our students were also selected as dancers:

Andrew Coleman (Dance Captain), Chloe Dickson, Amber Ibrahim, Rachael O'Neill

And another 'Good Luck' to the students who are part of the all-singing-all-dancing chorus:

Catherine Bain, Abbie Cantell, Rebecca McFarlane

You can book tickets online or...

find out more about the company on the LAMP website or the LAMP Facebook page.

Denny Dance Academy steps ahead...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:03:00 GMT

Dance is part of daily school life in Denny High School as students have the chance to be part of their specialist Dance Academy.

Denny Dance Academy students study ballet, jazz and contemporary dance as part of their daily curriculum. The Academy operates in partnership with Jazz Art UK and Central Scotland Ballet School to provide the highest standard of training in jazz dance and classical ballet.

As well as school events, the students have taken part in workshops and performances across Scotland with a variety of professional dance companies. The Dance Academy also runs a series of Dance clubs to give every pupil a chance to dance.

Excellent reports

In February, HM Inspectors visited the school to carry out a routine inspection. The PE Department and it's Dance Academy was acclaimed for "innovative practice" and has been cited as a sector leader.

Following the report, the Dance Academy had a full day of filming and interviews with Learning and Teaching Scotland (LTS). Head of Department, Anne McEwan and CSBS Director Amanda Clark were also interviewed for the feature which will highlight the work done by Denny High School and the benefits of the school working in partnership with external organisations.

Popular...

Now entering it's fourth year, the Dance Academy has become very popular. This year, over 100 P7 children auditioned for the 2011 intake... The Academy can only take 20 in each year group! Current students have gained their Int 1 and Int 2 level in Ballet and Jazz and many are preparing to sit their first RAD ballet assessments. Very few of the Dance Academy students have previous dance experience and some have enjoyed the lessons so much that they have started dance classes outwith school, some have even been accepted into our own Majors programme!

We are delighted to continue our support and partnership with Denny High and wish them all the best for their exams and show in June.

Lots of learning for our staff...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 11:29:00 GMT

Our staff have had a very busy start to 2011...

As well as the usual timetabling issues, exam preparation, fees, exams and dance display rehearsals, they have been doing CPD in a number of subjects.

To continue to deliver a high quality of dance tuition to our students, our staff attend many courses throughout the year to learn new skills, revise syllabii and keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date. In the last month they have trained as follows:

Hip-Hop: Amanda and our student teacher Kristina attended a one-day hip-hop course in Glasgow with the ISTD, led by Ashleigh Cameron.
Tap: Amanda attended a revision course for the new grades 2 and 3 tap with the ISTD.
Contemporary/Creative: Amanda attended a teachers workshop with Rambert Dance Company.
Ballet: Sammy is in the final stages of the Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies (CBTS) course which is the first part of a distance learning degree with the RAD. She is currently being assessed on the practical part of the course. She will be attending a week-long seminar.
Musical Theatre/Jazz: Amanda attended a dance workshop with "We Will Rock You"
Website: Amanda attended a 'Website Creation' course with Falkirk for Business.

New ballet and jazz syllabus

The Royal Academy of Dance are introducing a new syllabus for Intermediate Foundation and Intermediate levels in ballet. Mrs Clark and Sammy will be attending courses to learn the work during the Easter break. Amanda will be heading 'down South' during the summer to learn the new work, which looks like it will be challenging for both our students and teachers! Over the rest of the year, they will be attending RAD workshops and courses in Free Movement and Character, Choreography and Theatre.

The ISTD has introduced new amalgamations (dances) for Bronze and Silver Jazz Awards. Our staff will be attending courses to learn the new work in April as well as tap, modern and musical theatre courses over the rest of the year.

We are going to be VERY busy!

Ballet good work experience!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:11:00 GMT

Central Scotland Ballet School offers work experience placements to young people from local High Schools.

We are delighted that our most recent placement was a former student... Duncan Anderson began his dance training with CSBS before successfully auditioning for a full-time dance course at the Dance School of Scotland.

A 'boy' teacher...

Duncan returned for a week-long work experience placement working alongside our staff in ballet, jazz and tap classes with children of all ages and abilities.

The pre-school ballet class were a little bemused that there was a 'boy' ballet teacher (especially when the girls were being princesses!) but the Senior students and the boys loved the challenging exercises that he set them and his excellent demonstrations of pirouettes and jumps.

During his time with CSBS, Duncan performed with the Suzanne Farrell Ballet Company and toured with Birmingham Royal Ballet in their production of 'The Snowman'. He is now preparing to audition for some of the UK's most prestigious dance colleges and we wish him lots of luck with his auditions!

(Left: Duncan with Junior Jazz / Right: Grade 4 Ballet / Top: Preschool ballet)

Opera and Ballet performances...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:21:00 GMT

Throughout January our students have been rehearsing intensively and performing with some of Scotland's top companies.

Jemma Sneddon (17) and Christina McCall (15) joined the cast of Scottish Opera in their production of 'A Cunning Little Vixen' for performances at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow, and Edinburgh Festival Theatre. They were selected as dancers through Scottish Ballet's Senior Associate scheme where they both train every Saturday. Both girls have performed in many ballet and theatre productions across Scotland and are preparing to sit their first Advanced ballet exam in March.

Ballet West: Romeo and Juliet

Many of our students train monthly with one of Scotland's top young ballet companies, Ballet West, as part of their Aspiring Professionals scheme. The students performed in a celebration scene of the classical ballet 'Romeo and Juliet' at theatres in Stirling, Perth, Glasgow and Cumbernauld. Advanced student Natasha Watson (15) was selected to perform in every performance as a principal dancer alongside the company's full-time ballet students, and Andrew Coleman (15) performed a 'pas de deux' (duet).

Also in the production were former CSBS students Hazel Kirkwood and Jessica Boertein who are now in the second year of their full-time training at Ballet West. Last year, they toured China with Ballet West, performing 'The Nutcracker'.

Well done everyone for outstanding performances!

Ballet performance at 'Go Dance 11'

Central Scotland Ballet School — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 17:32:00 GMT

Forty-five young dancers from our Majors programme spent the day in Glasgow rehearsing and performing at the Theatre Royal.

We were invited for the fourth year to take part in 'Go Dance', a celebration of dance in Scotland and a highlight in the Scottish dance calendar. Groups and dancers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds come together in a week long festival of dance. The varied programme included primary schools, community groups, full-time theatre students, highland, hip-hop, disco, ballet, belly-dancing, tap and more.

Aladdin: The Ballet

The CSBS Majors students performed a short ballet adaptation of "Aladdin" which was originally performed at our 2010 dance display. It was a great success and everyone had a wonderful experience.

If you were unable to watch the performance, you can watch it here... The video footage is from the technical rehearsal so you have to add your own applause!

You can view photographs from rehearsals and backstage in our Facebook gallery.

Panto star Nichole

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:40:00 GMT

While most people were enjoying a restful Christmas break, Nichole Cook was busy performing!

Nichole (14) was playing the role of 'Michelle De Fox' in the professional MacRobert Arts Centre pantomime, "Snow White and the Seven De'Wharff's". As well as a lead role, she was one of the dancers.

Stage experience

This is Nichole's 2nd year in the Christmas cast. She has also performed in 'Billy Elliot' at the MacRoberts Arts Centre and many local theatre productions as well as dancing in professional ballets with Ballet West and the world renowned Suzanne Farrell Ballet Company. Nichole has also been part of dance troupes onboard international cruise ships and in EuroDisney.

Nichole was happy to give up school work to rehearse, saying "I don't mind giving up my Christmas holidays because I've made lots of friends in the cast. I have to catch up on my schoolwork but it's worth it because performing is what I would definitely like to do in the future. The whole experience is great."

Debut performance

Making her first professional performance in the same production was Samantha Davidson (11). Sam is in our Majors programme and played 'Evangeline Edelweiss' in the panto.

Well done girls!

Continued dance exam success...

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 16:38:00 GMT

Our students are starting the New Year with the good news of their excellent exam results!

In November 2010, we had 99 young dancers enter ballet exams with the Royal Academy of Dance as well as 20 entering for their graded tap and modern exams with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance.

Top Marks...!

At every level, these exams are very demanding and we are delighted and proud that our young dancers performed really well. For the tap exams, 12 students passed with Merit and 5 gained Distinction while Jemma Sneddon (16) and Kristina Lowe (15) were awarded Merit and Distinction respectively for their first vocational Modern exam, Intermediate Foundation.

Sixteen little budding ballerinas gained their Pre-Primary Class Award while, of the 21 children sitting the Primary Grade exam, 18 were awarded a silver medal and 8 were awarded gold!

Over the rest of the graded ballet exams from grades 1-7, 42 students gained a Merit and 19 gained Distinction. Special congratulations to the Grade 6 and 7 candidates who all gained Distinction and to Anna Fulton (17) who gained her Grade 8 Award with Distinction.

Outstanding achievement

An extra well done to the students who were awarded over 85% for their performances:

Katie McEwan (Primary tap) 86% and Sarah Makin (Primary ballet) 85%
Serena McCall (Primary) 89% ballet / 85% tap
Natasha Watson (Grade 6 ballet) 93%
Jemma Sneddon (Grade 7 ballet) 85%

The next exam session is February... Keep up the hard work!

Progress Awards and Parents Days

Central Scotland Ballet School — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 14:25:00 GMT

Our annual parents days gave parents a fantastic and enjoyable opportunity to watch their child dance and to see their individual progress in their class.

Prizes for Progress

We awarded trophies and certificates in each dance class to the students who have made outstanding progress and improvement over the past year. An 'overall trophy' was also awarded to one student in each branch who staff feel has made the most noticeable progress over the year. Badges were also presented to the students who had attained 100% attendance, which given the severe weather this year, is quite an achievement!

In total we presented 90 trophies and 112 certificates for progress as well as 84 badges for 100% attendance. Four Overall Trophies were presented, one for each branch.

Most improved dancers in each branch...

Overall trophies for outstanding improvement were presented to: Laura Bryson (Braes), Kristina Lowe (South Queensferry), Emma McTeague (Grangemouth) and Mia Musakambeva (Linlithgow).

You can view a gallery of our award winners on our Facebook page!

Online class success... More to come!

Central Scotland Ballet School — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 12:51:00 GMT

With staff and students stranded in their homes and our venues closed, CSBS Director Amanda-Louise Clark is broadcasting lessons live from her own home!

On Thursday 2 December, a short jazz class was broadcast live from Amanda's front room and, apart from a few minor technical hitches (like her head being cut off!), it seemed to be very popular with lots of great feedback:

"It was great that us Mums could join in too in the comfort of our own home! Well done Amanda - great idea!" Julie Heeps

"...loved your online class, my sister, niece and nephew all joined in along with Rachel,Sarah and myself a fun afternoon." Karen Leslie

"That was fab Amanda. We all joined in here and loved it." Morag Davidson

"He he he that was amazing!!!!!" Kirstie

We must thank Cameron Leask of Escrivo for the research and technical support.

Schedule of online classes...!

We are going to broadcast another class on Friday 3 December to test it out again and possibly a couple more over the weekend. The 'schedule'will be updated here and on Facebook Events.

You can watch the broadcasts live from our Facebook page OR on our Live Channel. There is a limit of 50 viewers for the live streams but you can watch the recordings after the event too.

Thursday 2 December	1500-1530h	Jazz(all abilities)
Friday 3 December	1800-1840h	Ballet (all abilities)
Saturday 4 December	1000-1030h	Pre-school ballet: The Sea
	tbc	Jazz (all abilities)
	tbc	Ballet (all abilities)

Please give us feedback on the broadcasts so that we can either organise some more online events, show repeats or just abandon the whole thing! If you have ideas on other projects, let us know!

Central Scotland Ballet School

Choreography Competition 2012

Medal winners and certificates

Trophy winners

More dance exam success...

RAD Ballet Exam Results

RAD Grade 8 Award

Denny Dance Academy

Acrobatics exams

Tap exams

No business like showbusiness...!

NODA Awards

Starshine sparkles at Scotcheer Nationals

Trophies...

Big steps in the dance world

Spring exam session over...

Results..

More hard work ahead...

Boys Only!

Who can take part...?

When and where..?

How much is it and how do you apply..?

CSBS dancing boys

Magical performance at Go Dance 12

Wizrard of Oz

Denny High Dance Academy

Staff changes this term

Supply teachers

Congratulations Claire!

Part of our family...

SQA accreditation for RAD exams

Benefits

New ballet syllabus launched

Dance for the child

Introducing the new syllabus in our own timetable

New Year ballet treat!

Exams results are here...!

ISTD Tap exams

RAD Ballet Exams

Parent's Days, Progress and Prizes

Overall trophy winners

Winter Raffle Winners

Fabulous prizes in our Winter Raffle...

Free dance classes...

Great fun for Pyjama Week!

Fundraising...

Thanks...

It's Pyjama Week!

Dance with a difference...

Parents are invited too...!

Branch/Venue

Parents can join in...

Venue / Time

Special Event

Exam session begins...

Tap exams

RAD Ballet exams and Pyjama Week...

Business Award winners... second year in a row!

Excellent feedback

Thank you...

Dancers in Disney musical

LAMP transforms Linlithgow Academy

A little star is born

All doing well

Ballet Award Success

Caroline Newlands Memorial Award

Double honour

Hayley Fleming (Student teacher)

Live online preschool ballet class

Creative ballet

Goodbye to our Advanced students...

Former students moving onward and upward...

Andrew scoops dance scholarship!

Performing across Scotland and the world...

We will miss him...

Shop Now Open!

CSBS Supplies on the web!

Benefits...

Fun at the photo shoot...

Hazel Kirkwood (HND Dance)