The Dance Curriculum is offered within the elective line at Beenleigh SHS from Year 8 to Year 10. This then follows a progression into the senior syllabus for Years 11-12, providing an opportunity for the students to develop technique and exposure to a variety of genres, including, but not limited to hip hop, contemporary, cultural dance, jazz, musical theatre and ballet. They are supported through group and individual work via the mediums of performance, choreography and responding. Our dance students also get the opportunity to see professional works and musicals throughout the year such as Bangarra Dance Company and current musicals and shows at QPAC and HOTA.
At Beenleigh SHS, we pride ourselves on our large Dance Troupes which regularly compete in Eisteddfods across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. In addition, they also perform at school-based events such as Paddock to Plate, School Parades, Culture Day, Eats and Beats and various community events such as Beenleigh's Teddy Bears Picnic and Feel the Beat Day. We also provide opportunities for our students to audition and be a part of Creative Generations each year. Our students have performed in both massed Dance sections and featured ensembles.
The key components that drive the Dance Troupes are the capacity to have a sense of belonging whilst working collaboratively with others, to build self-confidence and performance skills within real life context. This is both student and teacher driven to ensure that student leadership capability skills are developed and nurtured. The outcomes are the development of 21st Century skills which can then be transferred to life outside of the school, impacting positively on the community and wider world, increasing the opportunities for employment.
We offer Hip Hop, Jazz and Contemporary Dance Troupes that rehearse at lunch times and after school. Our students are given the opportunity to work with current choreographers within the industry both in Dance Troupe and in classroom work shops. There is a strong sense of collegiality within the school as Dance is often called upon by other Facilities to support their agendas and events.