HOW DOES DANCE GAP YEAR WORK?

 

A dancer/choreographer inquires into the program. Let's say they want to study experimental contemporary, popping and ballet. They want to do the full 8-month program - NY/LA/Abroad. For their Abroad semester, they want to do 1 month in Berlin and 1 month in Paris. We create their dance curriculum (15-20 hours of classes per week) based on their interests with the top teachers in each location & pair them with a mentor for 1-1 guidance and support. We organize performance and/or choreographic opportunities, dance events, master classes and a final project. Participants take one class outside of dance (i.e. acting, voice, instrument, sport, business, graphic design, film, photography, etc) as well as a language. We set up housing, transportation within each city, and connect participants with the DGY ambassador in each location who serves as their point-of-contact during their stay.

 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PROGRAMS IN EACH CITY?​

​

While all programs are tailor-made based on each participants' interests, each location has its strengths & what makes it special for dancers. For instance, New York City is known for live performance, modern/contemporary and hip hop/house culture, while Los Angeles is known for the industry, tv/film & commercial dance. Dance in Europe brings another angle, which each country having its own strengths and broadening one's perspective of dance in the world. During the interview process, we discuss prospectives' interests and advise based on dance goals, location interests and overall direction. For dancers doing the full Dance Gap Year (8 months), we often recommend starting in New York City in the fall, heading to Los Angeles in the winter, and going abroad in the summertime.

​

WHO MAKES UP OUR STAFF?

​

Professional dancers, choreographers, educators, experienced travelers and faculty from various major dance institutions in NYC, LA & Abroad.

​

WHAT WILL MY LIVING SITUATION BE?

​

New York City: Dormitory living with state of the art gym and pool.

Los Angeles: Shared apartment housing with choice of private room or shared rooms with other dancers.

Abroad: Dormitory living, hostel or homestay. Costa Rica: Eco Lodge. Jamaica: Hotel or Eco Lodge. 

​

WHAT DANCE LEVEL IS REQUIRED FOR PARTICIPANTS?

​

Participants must have at least 3 years of formal dance training in any field of dance study.

Teaching fellowship requires degree and 5+ years of teaching.

​

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE YOUR PROSPECTIVE PARTICIPANTS?

​

Participants must submit their admissions application and interview with our directors. The application process is not solely based on technique level as a dancer/choreographer. As a holistic dance program, we look at each individual as a whole and whether they are ready to take on the required workload as well as their comfortability level with traveling to new cities and foreign countries. The application is used to ensure we are able to provide the best resources for you based on your background and that your ideal dance gap year aligns with Pizarts' philosophy.

​

IS IT POSSIBLE TO SPEAK TO ALUMNI ?

​

Yes. We will introduce you via email.  

​

WHAT HAPPENS ON AN AVERAGE DAY?

​

Morning dance & language classes, free afternoon, workshop/rehearsal in the evening followed by cultural activity. Weekends are for adventure travel, dance events or free time.  

​

IS THERE PRE/ POST DEPARTURE ORIENTATIONS?

Yes.

​

WHAT IF I AM AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT?

​

You may come on a travel visa to any of the 3 month programs. Extended stays vary on the type of visa you have and the program you select.

​

WHAT DO I DO WHEN I ARRIVE?

​

An onsite staff member will give you directions to your destination and provide driver's contact information or meet you with the group at the airport. 

​

WILL THERE BE AN ON-SITE ORIENTATION?

​

There will be an on-site tour and dinner orientation where participants will meet the staff native to the host country. You will be provided with a buddy, meet your mentor, and receive contact information of all staff members.   

​

WHAT IS THE LOCAL TRANSPORTATION NETWORK LIKE?

​

Most countries have public transportation (trains and buses) that run 24/7. In places that may not have public transportation we will provide a private traveling service.

​

WHAT IF I HAVE DIETARY NEEDS OR RESTRICTIONS?

​

We can accommodate your needs and restrictions as long as DGY is notified prior to departure.