Specialist dance spaces for year 1–8
For most year 1–8 schools, a specialist dance space will double as a multi-purpose arts facility. While it will need to be suitable for other arts, the features described here are those specifically needed for dance.
It is assumed that this space would be able to booked by all classes. This space is also likely to be used for visiting dance groups and other events.
A specialist dance room will have the following features, in addition to those described in the 'Basics' page. Specialist features are:
- large floor area big enough for 30 students to travel simultaneously in curved pathways – about the size of three general classrooms would be suitable
- sprung floor – kept clean and in excellent condition
- acoustic control material to prevent reverberation and to make spoken instructions audible throughout the space – a commercial product available in rolls can be fixed to walls for a simple noise-softening effect
- blackout curtains
- wall mirrors for students to observe themselves and self-correct
- stage lights and related control equipment, but they need not be elaborate
- remote control for the sound system
- curtains or screens for simple staging – these could be stored elsewhere but need to be easily accessible
- shower facilities
- breakout rooms for group work – preferably four rooms that are large enough for small groups to develop movements (about 4 x 5 metres), containing power points, whiteboard, and no furniture (and could be carpeted).
* Note about space recommendations
Suggested room types or sizes on this website are to be considered only as a guide. They are not a required minimum that a school must supply in order to meet the needs of the performing arts curriculum. See the School Property Guides section in the 'Min Ed policies & guidelines' page.
Note that some facilities and space suggestions in this website can only be achieved in schools where additional local funding is arranged.