Contemporary is an accessible dance form well suited to the physicality and natural creativity of youth. Through movement and creative tasks students explore the elements of body and spatial awareness, time and dynamic as well as their own individual movement style and ideas. They also develop their dance technique – posture, alignment and co-ordination – in a fun and nurturing environment.

Four year olds explore creative movement and learn about the potential of their bodies through the exploration of space, shape, time, energy and musicality. Choose between a ballet or contemporary dance approach. Parents are encouraged to participate to support your four year old.

Hip hop class is where it's at! Our tutors constantly develop new choreography with inspiration from break-dancing, street dance and the phattest dance combinations from music videos. As well as developing co-ordination, style and fitness, you will learn about the various aspects of hip hop dance such as popping, locking, and krumping, within the structures of new school and old school.

Hip hop dance is the movement style of hip hop culture - the funky street dance seen in music videos by the latest hip hop musicians. Children learn co-ordination, timing, body and spatial awareness as they explore the concepts of shape, space, time and musicality. Different aspects of hip hop dance are explored such as popping, locking, and krumping, within the structures of new school and old school.

Creative drama focuses on the process of making drama so that children can express their understanding of themselves and the world they live in. With a creative focus we explore the physical, emotional, cognitive and social aspects of the child. We offer a multi-disciplinary approach, using movement, visual arts, stories, puppetry, role-playing and storytelling.

These classes develop the child’s confidence and imagination together with the acting skills required to perform successfully in front of an audience. Using guided explorations, improvisation, voice, movement, theatre devising and text, children gain skills and confidence to express their unique creative selves.

Being in front of the camera can be a scary experience for some of us. These classes turn the camera into a friend by exploring the skills and joys of acting for film and TV. In a safe, fun and challenging learning environment students will gain an understanding of the important part that listening, imagination and emotional honesty have to play in creating a great screen performance. The course covers improvisation, text work and acting technique and introduces students to practical audition hints and entertainment industry information.

This is a challenging physical course that explores the circus arts. The tutors have incorporated the best elements of their work in New York, to offer NZís this exciting opportunity. Through an introduction to static trapeze and adagio aerial skills, students will experience the teamwork and camaraderie of circus training, experiencing challenge, discipline and the rewards of self belief. Teenagers: Our newest programme is a challenging physical course that explores the circus arts. The tutors have incorporated the best elements of their work in New York, to offer New Zealanders this exciting opportunity. Through an introduction to static trapeze and adagio aerial skills, students will experience the teamwork and camaraderie of circus training, experiencing challenge, discipline and the rewards of self belief.

Our experienced and creative ballet teachers deliver a structured syllabus that builds each child’s capacity for achieving technical dance skills. We do this within a positive learning environment that nurtures self-esteem physical capability. The PASNZ philosophy is about growing a love of dance and an appreciation of the technique, musicality and qualities of classical ballet. There are no exams. Children progress to higher levels at the completion of each year of study.

Singing is fun! With the right attitude, persistence and teaching, everybody can learn to sing. This is your chance to give it a go and gain the skills needed to explore and express yourself through song in an encouraging, enjoyable and safe environment. You will find out how your voice works and learn how to control your voice using different techniques and great backing tracks.

This is a wonderful class for 8 – 9 year olds combining both dance and drama. Through creative games, improvisation, voice and movement, this class offers a fun and secure environment in which children are encouraged to explore and develop their creativity. This will make an excellent follow on class for students who have been doing our children’s contemporary dance or creative drama classes.

Our experienced and creative ballet teachers deliver a structured syllabus that builds each child’s capacity for achieving technical dance skills. We do this within a positive learning environment that nurtures self-esteem physical capability. The PASNZ philosophy is about growing a love of dance and an appreciation of the technique, musicality and qualities of classical ballet. There are no exams. Children progress to higher levels at the completion of each year of study.

This is a challenging physical course that focuses on the techniques used by circus performers on the ground and in the air. Through physical warm-ups, acrobatics and tumbling you will develop your motor skills, strength, flexibility and endurance. You will experience the thrill of practicing new skills on a suspended circus rig including static trapeze (single and double trapeze that do not swing), lyra (hanging hoop) and aerial silks (hanging stretch fabric).

Pointy Dog was established to give young people the chance to work with professional dancers/choreographers to train in, choreograph and perform contemporary dance. The company dancers attend both contemporary and ballet technique. Dancers 14 years and older are warmly invited to attend the audition at 5.00 – 7.15pm on Wednesday 4 February 2009.

The two acting companies of PAS of NZ have been created for young actors who are passionate and committed to acting for the theatre. The company environment enables youth to develop their potential through technique, creative exploration and an annual performance season in our theatre at TAPAC. Many of our youth company members have gone on to tertiary training and careers in acting. The 2007 Company has already been selected, however those interested should call 09 845 0290 ext 2 for more information.

The two acting companies of PAS of NZ have been created for young actors who are passionate and committed to acting for the theatre. The company environment enables youth to develop their potential through technique, creative exploration and an annual performance season in our theatre at TAPAC. Many of our youth company members have gone on to tertiary training and careers in acting. For all Youth Company enquiries please call 845 0290 ext 2.

Everyone needs an avenue to express their creative ideas. Contemporary Dance gives teens a perfect outlet to physically explore space, time and musicality, as well as their own individual movement style. It challenges and nurtures each dancerís potential for choreographic flair while developing a dancerís vocabulary of movement and consolidating excellent dance technique so essential to all dance forms. Those 14 years and older are also eligible to audition for Pointy Dog Dance Company.

Take time out to groove, jam and bust a move in our hiphop classes at TAPAC. These classes are for people who like a workout and a challenge. We dance to the latest beats off the street, gaining co-ordination, rhythm and a sense of self-confidence through the pure enjoyment of dance. Two levels cater for beginners and those with experience.

Being in front of the camera can be a scary experience for some of us. These classes turn the camera into a friend by exploring the skills and joys of acting for film and TV. In a safe, fun and challenging learning environment students will gain an understanding of the important part that listening, imagination and emotional honesty have to play in creating a great screen performance. The course covers improvisation, text work and acting technique and introduces students to practical audition hints and entertainment industry information.

Singing is fun! With the right attitude, persistence and teaching, everybody can learn to sing. This is your chance to give it a go and gain the skills needed to explore and express yourself through song in an encouraging, enjoyable and safe environment. You will find out how your voice works and learn how to control your voice using different techniques and great backing tracks.

The focus of this course is to use music and sound to stimulate theatrical images and ideas. Using sound as a starting point, a range of theatre techniques can be applied to the shaping and structuring of a visual story. Techniques such as mask, mime, voice, percussion and object animation will be taught and you will work with the tutor to devise and create exciting contemporary theatre.

TRiPLe8FuNk Dance Company, one of the most established Street /HipHop Dance Crews in NZ, is looking for some of the most talented teens aged 14-17 yrs to be involved in a HipHop dance crew. This is a great opportunity to learn more advanced skills such as choreography, technique and qualities like teamwork and leadership. The aim is to get teens involved in the dance community scene with activities such as performances and competitions. This is an amazing experience so don't miss out on another audition opportunity at 6.30pm on Monday 20 July in TAPAC Studio 1.

This class focuses on technique, performance skills and musicality for people with a jazz dance background. New choreography taught each week familiarises students with diverse styles, promotes self-confidence and develops skills in an encouraging environment. Warm-ups use a technical jazz and ballet format, layered with style. Combinations include repertory from shows plus original choreography. Maylene’s teen class is a high-energy class focusing on stretching, placement, moving, terminology and how to "pick up" quickly. Maylene teaches the importance of having discipline and classroom etiquette. Students are encouraged to have fun by developing their personality and attitude. Students are expected to have a basic knowledge of dance and a willingness to learn.

Yoga sequences and approaches have been developed to bring a different range of awareness to the moving, expressive bodies of performing artists. PASNZ classes offer a unique open approach to performing by bringing this ancient art /science to the forefront for increased focus, pace, alignment and awareness.

The Musical Theatre Company has been created for people aged 15-19 who are passionate about musical theatre, and committed to up skilling and exploring their potential. The company will provide students with training in singing, acting and dance, as well as working to grow their imaginations and creative skills through devising, improvisation and work shopping. The Musical Theatre Company is a supportive environment where students grow in confidence as performers and as people. Classes will be designed to up skill students and build a repertoire that will be used in performances throughout the year. The Musical Theatre Company aims to nurture its young people into engaging and truthful performers of the future.
Auditions for this company will take place on Thursday 22 July at 5.30pm. Auditionees need to have prepared a musical theatre song of their choosing (1 verse and chorus - please bring sheet music or a backing cd). For any further info please contact 845 0290 ext 2 or email adminsitration@pasnz.co.nz.

Have you decided you want a career in Dance and plan to audition for a dance school this year? Or maybe you have your sights set on being a performer in a company or independent production. Either way, this four week intensive offers performers an opportunity to get ready for auditions with the relevant skills and techniques you will need. Course covers solos preparation, learning other choreographers movement, fitness and readiness, building a relevant resume and how to conduct yourself in an audition to inspire the director/audition panel.

Have you decided you want a career in Acting and plan to audition for a drama school this year? Or maybe you have your sights set on being a performer in a company or independent production. Either way, this four week intensive offers performers an opportunity to get ready for auditions with the relevant skills and techniques you will need to prepare for it. Course covers monologue preparation, cold readings, improvisation, voice, character and movement and how to conduct yourself in an audition to inspire the director/audition panel.

Whilst learning basic tap steps, On Tap - urban body language for modern kids - teaches children about rhythm, space, sound and movement. They will learn how to use their own body as an instrument for self expression. With hip hop and contemporary dance influences this class promises to be fun, energetic and unique. Suitable for those new to tap who want to take a modern approach to this traditional technique.

Pilates is a mind-body exercise method that works and balances the body from its centre, through a series of flowing exercises that can dramatically improve strength, flexibility, posture and co-ordination.
Level 1 is for those new to Pilates or who wish to benefit from this technique during recovery from injury or to break postural habits that may be limiting.
Level 2 focuses on building strength and encourages you to find ways to apply the principles to your normal daily activity. It may also enhance other exercise regimes such as dance or sport.

A three morning intensive for actors who aim for greater breadth and depth of performance for film. "The Process" develops the instinctive performance base of the actor, by developing and extending their emotional range in relationship to their fellow actors. Greater openness, availability, spontaneity, and emotional elasticity are achieved together with the focus, concentration and discipline required for greater breadth and depth of performance. Come prepared to take risks and be creative.

Voice is the most vital tool of the actor. In this acting course you will learn the vocal techniques used by successful actors, including tone and diction, pitch and pace and the natural integration of voice and body. Working with theatre scripts you will practise breath and language techniques, explore the potential of your own voice and sound, and discover how to use your voice to communicate with your audience at the deepest level.

Stage 1: Find out how your voice works. Learn to develop and control your breathing, understand the connection between your body and your voice, practise microphone technique, explore harmonising and discover how to use your resonating areas. Your confidence will build within full-group, small-group and solo singing using a wide range of genres, including pop, jazz and musicals.
Stage 2: A follow-on course for those who have completed Stage 1. Having learned the basics, you are given the opportunity to further develop and hone your vocal technique. We will also explore styles, song interpretation and performance strategies. Both groups come together each week for a combined choir session.

Our contemporary dance programme is influenced by up-to-date international developments and the many contemporary dance techniques that evolved throughout last century.
Our tutors bring their own personal movement vocabulary and choreography to the technique. Through floor work, exercises and combinations that are built on each week, you can explore your own movement style and creativity and enjoy the exhilaration that comes from dancing through space with ease and confidence.

Two levels of ballet cater for beginners to experienced dancers. Classes focus on developing excellent technique and are also suitable for those seeking a ballet class as a recreational opportunity for fun and fitness.

Hip Hop class is where it's at. The latest styles of Hip Hop are always changing, taking ideas and styles from break-dancing, street flavoured dance and the phatest dance combinations from music videos. Along with co-ordination, style and fitness, it will also teach you how to feel the Hip Hop beat.

This is a challenging physical course that focuses on the techniques used by circus performers on the ground and in the air. Through physical warm-ups, acrobatics and tumbling you will develop your motor skills, strength, flexibility and endurance. You will experience the thrill of practising new skills on a suspended circus rig including static trapeze (single and double trapeze that do not swing), lyra (hanging hoop) and aerial silks (hanging stretch fabric).

Maylene’s classes begin with a warm-up utilizing stretch and technique to prepare the student for stylistic and exciting combinations. Maylene has been highly influenced by the Broadway stage, movie musicals, and loves the diversity of jazz and the many styles it offers. The class is conducted in a positive atmosphere where learning and fun go hand in hand. If you like to work hard, like to try new combinations and be challenged weekly, then this dance class is for you.

A fresh and funky dance workout has hit the scene. A combination of simple street dance moves to your favorite HipHop / Urban beats giving you an energetic, fun and fast-paced cardio workout. It’s great for getting fit while learning groove and coordination. So burn those calories and boogie to the beat. www.pasnz.co.nz

This course is appropriate for both newcomers or for previous students wanting to further develop their screen acting skills. You will learn the differences and similarities between screen and stage acting and how you can make your screen performance shine with your innovative interpretation of a character. The focus is on film and television scripts as well as improvisation techniques to develop courage and reduce fear, so you will learn skills to help bring a script to life. Scripts will be rehearsed, filmed, and then played back - this way you get to see what's working and what's not, very quickly. It's a lot of fun and very productive at the same time! The longer Saturday course also covers techniques for screen auditions. You will learn how to read an audition script, and how to do an improvised audition if there is no script. We will tape your performance, review it and re-shoot it if necessary.

Ever wanted to try your hand at writing and performing a comedy skit or developing a comic character? This class is for anyone who wants to get together with a group of people to workshop comedy skits or character performances. We will look at other comic performances and play around to write and develop short comic performances to perform in front of the group. It will be lots of fun and supportive. Laughter is the spice of life!

Working out can be lots of things, but it’s never been so much fun…… until Zumba! Zumba is a fusion of latin musical rhythms and moves, that combine to create a dynamic physical workout which is accessible and easy to do. Join the Zumba fitness-party now and you’ll get to love working out.

Yoga sequences and approaches have been developed to bring a different range of awareness to the moving, expressive bodies of performing artists. PASNZ classes offer a unique open approach to performing by bringing this ancient art /science to the forefront for increased focus, pace, alignment and awareness.

In this Ballet repertoire class, come and learn the steps from the famous big ballets - variations from Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote and Cinderella are planned for 2010. Dance in soft ballet shoes (not pointe shoes) in a supportive and nurturing class, to gorgeous music that will make you feel beautiful!

Sing, Act, Dance! Musical Theatre has it all! Come and learn skills in all three disciplines in a supportive and engaging environment. Whether you want to improve your existing skills, or are brand new to the stage, this is the class for you!

Halau Ka Waikahe Lani Malie (The Calm Heavenly Waters).
Come join this exciting new class and learn the Hawaiian hula! Learn through the hula - auana (modern) and kahiko (ancient), the history, chants, songs and language of this beautiful culture. E Komo Mai! Welcome!

Have you decided you want a career in Dance and plan to audition for a dance school this year? Or maybe you have your sights set on being a performer in a company or independent production. Either way, this four week intensive offers performers an opportunity to get ready for auditions with the relevant skills and techniques you will need. Course covers solos preparation, learning other choreographers movement, fitness and readiness, building a relevant resume and how to conduct yourself in an audition to inspire the director/audition panel.

Have you decided you want a career in Acting and plan to audition for a drama school this year? Or maybe you have your sights set on being a performer in a company or independent production. Either way, this four week intensive offers performers an opportunity to get ready for auditions with the relevant skills and techniques you will need to prepare for it. Course covers monologue preparation, cold readings, improvisation, voice, character and movement and how to conduct yourself in an audition to inspire the director/audition panel.

A good actor can sense the energy in an entire stage space and how their work is affecting it, like a dancer, aware of all that’s happening around them. Theatre is a collaborative art and this attitude is essential.
Sometimes it is difficult for a performer to give up the sense that the performance is about them and that they have to be interesting. What we eventually come to observe is that if we are not alert to what’s going on around us and how we fit in, if we are not aware of the choices others are making and have an ability to reinforce those choices the theatrical result is boring to watch.
Concentrating on physical characterisation combined with voice, students in this workshop will explore their impact on the space and those around them. The class will utilize a range of improvisational and structured exercises designed to tap into and touch elemental emotions and learn to recreate them along with a physical inhabitation of character. Techniques including Laban and the exciting improvisational `Union Jack` will enable the actor in class to let go, crack the shell and release ‘the creature within’ culminating in a powerful and liberating mini performance of a scene from Shakespeares Macbeth.

A wonderful opportunity to experience the thrill and excitement of the big top in a safe, fun, learning environment. This is a challenging physical course that focuses on the techniques used by circus performers on the ground and in the air. Through physical warm-ups, acrobatics and tumbling you will develop your motor skills, strength, flexibility and endurance. You will experience the thrill of practising new skills on a suspended circus rig including static trapeze (single and double trapeze that do not swing), lyra (hanging hoop) and aerial silks (hanging stretch fabric). Children will also be taught juggling. A wonderful confidence builder with tutors and coaches dedicated to helping each student reach their fullest potential.

This intensive two day workshop is for youth who want to gain some specific film acting skills and auditioning techniques from an industry professional. Over the 2 days of the workshop we will be focusing on TV commercial audition technique as well as general screen technique. Day One: you will be discovering how to present yourself on camera, how to read an audition script and how you can maximise your potential at an audition. Day Two: we will focus on general screen technique and work with tv/ film scripts. On both days of the workshop we will be filming your work and then playing it back so you can see what’s working for you and what you need to work on. This will be a practical and enjoyable workshop where you will learn the basics of screen acting technique… So come along ready to focus, take some risks and HAVE FUN!