Queensland College of Dance

Image: Peter Cabral Photography

Over the past five years, Queensland College of Dance has experienced remarkable growth, solidifying its reputation as a dynamic force in performing arts education. Jacqui Devereux Head of Musical Theatre reports.

With a focus on nurturing the next generation of performers with dedication and expertise, Queensland College of Dance has rapidly become a highly sought-after destination for aspiring young artists.

Our programs are designed to ignite passion, hone talent, and prepare students for flourishing careers in the performing arts. Offering comprehensive Diploma and Advanced Diploma qualifications, the college ensures that graduates are well-equipped for professional success. The faculty, comprised of industry professionals, provides personalised mentorship, cultivating each student’s unique potential.

The college boasts first-rate facilities at its Brisbane campus, which provide students with ample opportunities to gain real-world experience. Regular performances allow students to showcase their skills on stage. This hands-on approach, combined with a robust curriculum, creates an exceptional pathway to success for students.

Diverse Training Streams

The College offers four specialty streams—Musical Theatre, Commercial Dance, Classical Dance, and Contemporary Dance. Each stream is meticulously designed to provide targeted training, ensuring that students receive the most relevant and comprehensive education possible.

Spotlight on Musical Theatre

One of the most anticipated events is the Musical Theatre stream's mainstage show. For 2024, we proudly present Alice By Heart, featuring music by Duncan Sheik and a book by Steven Sater. This modern musical adaptation of Lewis Carroll's classic Alice's Adventures in Wonderland explores themes of love, loss, and the power of imagination amidst the backdrop of war-torn London.

The creative team of Artistic Director Tim Hill, myself as musical director and choreography by Tess Hill are devising a fresh and poignant interpretation, fully immersing the audience in Alice's fantastical world.

The talents of Diploma and Advanced Diploma of Musical Theatre students will be showcased, highlighting their skills in acting, singing, and dancing.  Tickets will be available in September.

Image by Erik Sawaya

A Proven Track Record

Graduates are making their mark in the professional sphere, securing roles both internationally and across Australia. From Universal Studios, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Sydney Dance Company, the Teatrul De Balet Sibiu and the Moulin Rouge, young artists from all four of the Queensland College of Dance's programs are performing world-wide.

Numerous students have advanced to study Musical Theatre at other distinguished universities after first completing diploma courses at the college.

Maddie Kirkwood, a 3rd Year Musical Theatre Student at the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre, Griffith University, reflects on her experience: “During my full-time studies at the Queensland College of Dance I felt so supported and guided in pursuing a career in musical theatre. The course offered a wide variety of classes which ensured I was getting the most versatile training in all genres of singing, acting, and dance. Not only was I able to solidify my skillset as a performer, I found lifelong friends and mentors who still support me post-graduation.”

Elliott Gough, now a performer at Universal Studios Beijing, credits the College for his professional and personal growth: "Two of the most important lessons I learnt were not being self-conscious, and how to listen. These newly acquired skills now shape my career and the rest of my life. I’m beyond grateful for all the tutors and teachers for guiding me to where I am today.”

A Bright Future

As Queensland College of Dance continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide top-tier performing arts education. The combination of state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty, and a passion-driven curriculum ensures that students are well-prepared to succeed in the competitive world of performing arts.

For anyone with a dream of making it in the world of dance or musical theatre, we offer an unparalleled opportunity to turn that dream into reality.