IPSWICH is to be the new home for a top notch dance academy, it was announced today.The town has been chosen to house the region's Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) by the Department for Children Schools and Families (DCSF) at DanceEast.

IPSWICH is to be the new home for a top notch dance academy, it was announced today.

The town has been chosen to house the region's Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) by the Department for Children Schools and Families (DCSF) at DanceEast.

Louise Cullen, DanceEast press and marketing manager, said: “This is great news for Ipswich and we are delighted the town has been chosen.

“The aim of the scheme is to help identify, and assist, children with exceptional potential regardless of their personal circumstances.”

Mrs Cullen said the centre is part of a nationwide network which includes academies in Yorkshire, Newcastle and London.

She added: “DanceEast is one of England's leading dance organisations. It supports professional dance artists and companies through training, research, development and performances in partnership with regional venues.”

DanceEast is due to move into a new £8.2million DanceHouse headquarters on the former Cranfield's Mill site at Ipswich Waterfront in 2009.

Mrs Cullen added: “The academy will be officially launched early next year and will initially take place at the Northgate Arts Centre Saturday.

“We are due to move into the new building in autumn 2009.

“DanceEast aims to place the region on the map as a key international centre of dance excellence.”

To request an information pack and apply to the academy email academy@danceeast.co.uk

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