I’ve always been passionate about dance and choreography, and I knew that pursuing an MFA in Choreography at Roehampton would give me the perfect opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills. What initially drew me to the programme was the amazing facilities available to students, which you can book out for free to create your own work. Having access to these spaces is invaluable for someone like me who wants to explore and develop new choreographic ideas. Additionally, Roehampton’s diverse range of modules and topics really appealed to me, allowing me to grow as both a dancer and a choreographer.

What I love most about studying Choreography at Roehampton

What I love most about my MFA degree is the variety of dance styles and projects we get to explore. The course offers everything from dance films and choreographic projects to exploring our own practice as research. There’s also a chance to dive into philosophical discussions related to subjects we’re passionate about. These experiences have deepened my understanding of choreography and allowed me to experiment with different forms of dance that I wouldn’t have been exposed to otherwise.

Facilities and software

The dance studios at Roehampton are fantastic, and I use spaces like Davies, Michaelis, and Lulham to both participate in classes and work on my choreographic ideas. The studios offer the ideal environment for creating dance pieces, and the lighting desks provide me with the tools I need for designing my own light setups for my final thesis project. I also make use of the Mac labs in Michaelis to edit dance films using Adobe software. These facilities and the technology available to us have been essential for developing my work.

The key skills needed for success

To thrive in this programme, it’s important to have a solid foundation in dance knowledge and technique. A good level of dance performance skills will definitely benefit you as you continue to refine your craft. Prior experience in choreography, whether as a dancer or a choreographer, will also help you build on the knowledge this master’s degree provides. But if you’re passionate about dance and willing to push your boundaries, the programme will help you expand your skills even further.

Opportunities and projects I’ve taken part In

A key highlight of the programme has been the choreographic projects where we create dance pieces based on specific briefs. These projects give you the opportunity to showcase your creativity and experiment with various dance styles. The final choreographic thesis is an exciting opportunity to put everything you’ve learned into practice, creating a contextualized 45-minute to one-hour long performance. Additionally, Roehampton brings in different choreographers who lead workshops on their unique dance practices, offering valuable insight into the industry.

How Roehampton has supported my growth

Roehampton has been incredibly supportive throughout my time here. The lecturers have provided constant guidance, helping me refine my work and giving me the confidence to pursue opportunities. I’ve also benefitted from being part of the Dance Society and Roehampton Dance Team, where I gained real choreographic experience. As secretary of the Roehampton Players society and an active member, I’ve been able to create and showcase dance pieces and performances. Additionally, my role as the Froebel Deputy President has given me the chance to engage with the wider university community, organizing events that support students and the arts.

Gaining real-world experience and networking

One of the main benefits of my degree has been the ability to network and work with other aspiring choreographers and performers. The skills I’ve learned have led to exciting job opportunities, like working as a scare actor, where I had to physicalize my character’s movements to create a grotesque persona. I’ve also had the chance to choreograph for various societies at Roehampton, allowing me to put my skills to the test in a real-world setting.

Balancing studies and part-time work

While the first year of the programme is demanding, with a lot of dance practice classes, I managed to balance my studies with part-time work on weekends. The second year has provided me with more flexibility, allowing me to choreograph for external projects. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with my societies and take on jobs, such as my scare acting role, which further developed my skills and added to my experience.

Commuting and campus life

Although I live on campus, I often use the free university bus to get to the station for shopping or other errands. Roehampton’s campus is vibrant, and I enjoy spending time in various locations, such as the dance studios, the library, and the Union Bar. My favourite spot on campus is the Davies dance studios, where I’ve created most of my choreography and had the opportunity to express myself through dance. I also enjoy relaxing on Froebel Lawn when I need a break between lessons.

Reflecting on my time at Roehampton: favourite memories

Some of my favourite memories from my time at Roehampton include spending time with friends at university events and being part of the Froebel community. I also feel proud of my final choreography project last year, which received positive feedback. Additionally, my time as Froebel Deputy President gave me a unique chance to help organize and plan events, further enriching my university experience.

Career aspirations after graduation

After I graduate, my ultimate goal is to become a musical theatre choreographer, working with West End productions as well as local shows. I also want to continue working with youth and adult productions, helping to shape and inspire the next generation of performers.

Advice for future MFA Choreography students

If you’re considering studying choreography at Roehampton, I would tell you that it’s an excellent place to pursue your passion for dance. The university offers fantastic support, has state-of-the-art facilities, and provides access to experienced faculty members who are committed to helping you succeed. You’ll learn a diverse range of dance styles and techniques, preparing you for a successful career in the dance and choreography industry.

Overall, my experience at Roehampton has been an enriching and rewarding journey. The knowledge and opportunities I’ve gained here have prepared me for a successful career in choreography, and I’m excited for what the future holds. If you’re passionate about dance and ready to explore all that choreography has to offer, this is the place to be. To find out more about this course please visit MFA Choreography | University of Roehampton, London.