EXAMS

ISTD EXAMS

At TAPA, we are proud to offer ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing) examinations in Ballet, Tap, and Modern Theatre. Our examination program ranges from Pre-Primary all the way to Advanced 2.

Exam Day Traditions:

Exam days at TAPA have always been special and filled with excitement, so here are a few of our traditions:

  • Girls’ Hair Styling: For Tap and Modern Theatre, our dedicated team will style your hair into beautiful French plaits, ensuring you look and feel your best. For Ballet, you'll get a beautifully styled bun. All of these hairstyles are accompanied by lots (and lots) of hairspray to keep everything in place!!

  • Boys’ Hair Styling: Boys get the chance to sport a super smart hairstyle, adding to the excitement and sense of occasion.

  • Ballet Shoe Ribbon: The children get ballet shoe ribbons on their satin shoes to give a true balletic feeling. They get tied like “real ballerina shoes” and even these ribbons have to have lots of hairspray!!

  • The Before Picture: We have endless pictures of our dancers before going into their exams!! They have to do one sensible one and then they get to do their crazy one!! We always love to compare their first exam picture to their last exam picture when the dancers become leavers.

Examination Requirements:

To be selected for exams, students must demonstrate exceptional etiquette and maturity in their classes. We look for those who have a thorough understanding of the syllabus and show dedication to their dance practice in and outside of their timetabled class.

Supportive Environment:

Although exams are meant to be an exciting time for our dancers, we understand that exams can be stressful and intimidating for some students. That’s why if you’re selected, participation in ISTD examinations is not mandatory. We believe that every student’s journey is unique, and we respect that exams may not be the right path for everyone. Our aim is to create a supportive environment where students can thrive and enjoy their dance education.

LAMDA EXAMS

We are also proud to offer our students the opportunity to take LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) examinations in Acting and Musical Theatre. These prestigious exams are available as solo or duo performances, and they cover a wide range of levels to suit every student's development stage and aspirations.

Examination Levels:

  • Introductory

  • Entry

  • Level 1: Grades 1, 2 & 3

  • Level 2: Grades 4 & 5

  • Level 3: Grades 6, 7 & 8 (Bronze, Silver & Gold)

How to Participate:

To be considered for LAMDA examinations, students must demonstrate energy, dedication, and potential in their classes, whether that’s private lessons, theatre company or acting classes. Those interested in pursuing LAMDA exams should enroll in private lessons with Josie, where we will practice and prepare specifically for these assessments. During these sessions, Josie will guide you through the requirements and help you decide if this path is the right fit for you.

What to Expect:

  • Personalised Coaching: Receive tailored instruction to hone your acting and/or musical theatre skills.

  • Performance Development: Enhance your confidence and performance techniques.

  • Theory Development: You will work on undertsanding the theory side to LAMDA, where you have to talk about your the pieces you’re doing for your exam.

  • Goal-Oriented Training: Work towards achieving recognised qualifications that can bolster your artistic portfolio.