Modern Theatre Dance (ISTD)

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Our jazz classes follow the ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing) Modern Theatre syllabus, a dynamic and expressive dance style that blends jazz, lyrical, and musical theatre techniques.

Modern is an energetic and versatile genre often seen in stage and screen productions, including West End shows. It develops strength, flexibility, and performance skills through travelling sequences, kicks, leaps, turns, and floor work.

Modern classes focus on:

• Technique and Strength – developing control, flexibility, and alignment
• Musicality and Rhythm – understanding timing and dynamics
• Performance Skills – building confidence, expression, and stage presence
• Versatility – combining elements of jazz, ballet, and contemporary styles

Students also develop skills in travelling steps, high kicks, turns, and floor work, building a strong and well-rounded technical foundation.

The ISTD Modern syllabus is progressive, allowing students to develop safely and confidently:

Primary
Introduction to basic movement, coordination, and rhythm

Grades 1–3
Development of foundational technique, strength, and simple combinations

Grades 4–5
Introduction of more complex steps, flexibility, and performance quality

Grades 6–Intermediate
Advanced technique, stamina, and more intricate choreography

Vocational Levels (Intermediate Foundation – Advanced 2)
High-level training for students wishing to progress further, focusing on strength, precision, and performance

In the younger years, elements of Modern Theatre are introduced within our Jazz classes, allowing students to develop musicality, coordination, and performance skills in a fun and engaging environment.

From S2 and above, Modern becomes a separate, specialised class, enabling a more focused and structured approach to training,  designed specifically for those working towards vocational graded examinations (Intermediate level and above).

These classes provide:

• A more intensive and focused training environment
• Development of advanced technique, strength, and flexibility
• Preparation for the demands of vocational-level examinations
• Support for students considering further training or a future in dance

This structure ensures that all students can enjoy Modern dance at an appropriate level, while also providing a clear pathway for those wishing to progress through the vocational grades.

Intermediate-Advanced  Modern are vocational-level qualifications and a key milestone within the ISTD syllabus.

At this level, dancers work at a much higher standard, focusing on advanced technique, strength, and artistry. The syllabus includes complex sequences, jazz technique, high kicks, turns, travelling steps, and floor work.

Modern Theatre at this level blends jazz, lyrical, and commercial styles, developing versatile performers with strong technical and expressive skills.

• It is part of a recognised vocational pathway
• It demonstrates a dancer has reached a high technical standard
• It prepares students for advanced training and performance opportunities

Students begin to show greater control, consistency, and understanding in their work.

Students working towards vocational Modern examinations (Intermediate level and above) are expected to:

• Demonstrate strong technique, control, and alignment
• Perform complex sequences with accuracy and musicality
• Show a clear understanding of style, dynamics, and performance quality
• Display strength, flexibility, and stamina
• Work with focus, discipline, and consistency
• Practice regularly to support their development

Vocational training is more intensive and prepares dancers for higher-level study and potential careers in the performing arts.

Achieving Intermediate level and above can contribute UCAS points, which are used by universities as part of their entry requirements.

Intermediate Modern is also an important step for students considering teaching. To begin qualifications such as the Level 4 Diploma in Dance Education (DDE), dancers are typically required to have reached at least Intermediate standard.

This makes it a key gateway into professional training and teaching pathways.

• Improves strength, flexibility, and coordination
• Builds confidence and performance ability
• Develops discipline, focus, and teamwork
• Enhances musicality and expressive skills
• Supports overall fitness and wellbeing

Modern is an exciting and expressive style that allows dancers to grow in confidence, strength, and performance ability, whether dancing for enjoyment or working towards future goals in the industry.