Presented by FORM Dance Projects, the tenth annual Sharp Short Dance festival returns to Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres from 14 November 2017.
A competitive dance festival, Sharp Short Dance will see young dancers and choreographers (aged 21 years and under), compete for awards and a share in prizes and highly-sought after industry secondments with major professional dance companies such as The Dream Dance Company, Sydney Dance Company Pre-Professional Year, Legs On The Wall and Dance Makers Collective.
Sharp Short Dance celebrates the sheer joy of dance in all its forms including classical ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, krumping and cultural dance. Since its launch, the event has hosted hundreds of entrants, with many returning each year, to strive for artistic excellence, develop their choreographic and performance skills, meet like-minded artists, and network with peers and industry experts.
“What I love about Sharp Short Dance is the unique environment it provides for young aspiring choreographers and performers,” said Producer Carl Sciberras. “Unlike other performance environments such as eisteddfods and local festivals, Sharp Short Dance encourages young people to take control of their creative visions, under the guidance and mentorship of professionals.”
Sharp Short Dance finalists will compete in one of three rounds of heats, with winners progressing to the final on Saturday evening. The judging panel for each round will be comprised of industry professionals who will be looking for excellence in performance and innovative choreography.
Hosting the Festival will be renowned professional contemporary dance artist, Kay Armstrong, with this year’s judging panels including Thomas Egan (The Boy from Oz, Fame the Musical, Tap Dogs), Catherine Goss (Academy of Music and Performing Arts) and Lee-Anne Litton (Co-Artistic Director for Legs On The Wall), amongst others.
Sharp Short Dance awards include Outstanding Male and Female Performers, Most Innovative Choreography, Outstanding Solo, Duet and Ensemble Performances, and the Audience Choice Award.
Sharp Short Dance
Lennox Theatre – Riverside Theatres, Corner Church and Market Streets, Parramatta
Dates: 14 – 18 November 2017
Information and Bookings: www.riversideparramatta.com.au
Image: Sharp Short Dance – photo by Dom O’Donnell