Whats Happened to Brent Street

Hey I have just spoken to a couple of girls who have left Brent Street before they finished the performing arts course, they said its gone down hill. Does anyone in NSW know whats happening there. When you read some of the musical theatre programs that tell you where the artists have studied, some say Brent Street but have moved on to other teaching facilities to study musical theatre.

I was looking at Brent Street but they say its just a dance school with fifty or more to a class. Its alot of money to pay for "just a dance school" And not even their professionals are getting any work

I have to say: I've never heard of Brent Street, and anyone who has seen me in a nightclub will swear that I've obviously never heard of dancing either.

However, what I WILL suggest is that potentially anonymous forums are usually pretty poor ways of getting an unbiased opinion about a particular school / theatre company etc. There's simply no means of sorting out crap posted by people with a bias (e.g. ex-students who have been failed or who don't get on with the staff, or competing schools on one hand v stuff posted by the owners, or friends of the owners, as a means of free advertising) from genuine and well-meaning comment.

By all means GO the consumer power - especially in an area where rip-off-merchants are rife - talk to as many other performers and students and potentional performers and students as possible and find out their opinions and spread word of good/bad products. But I don't think that inviting comments about a school on a website is going to help you out.

Personally I find it best to evaluate courses/schools by asking people who are getting regular work what courses etc they found helpful. There's no point trying to judge schools by how many of their students go on to bigger and better things - unfortunately the % is miserably low for ALL of them - heck even for NIDA and WAAPA etc! The proportion of grads from any course/school who get long-term full-time performance work is just too low to be statistically reliable as a means of comparing schools. Much better to start from the other end - find people who HAVE got long-term full-time performance work and ask what they found helpful.

hey! first of all i'm not an ex student and i'm not a current student and actually the only reason i know brent street is that my friend got in there this year. he is really excited and from what he tells me it's awesome. oh also an old teacher of mine... vivienne garrett works/worked there... she is amazing. absolutely amazing. so if thats anything to go by??? but definetly take craig's advice seriously ... read what people have to say but make up your own mind with the information you can collect... the amount of info you can collect should tell you something in itself!

This comment was removed at the request of Wayne Aspinall wayne.aspinall@brentstreet.com.au on 19 July 2006 for reason libellous content. Grant Malcolm Site Administrator

Well I graduated from Brent Street last year. At first it was very exciting and I thought it was going to be awesome. I am one of the lucky ones. I ended up getting a good agent and have already been doing some well-paid gigs. I was an advanced dancer when I arrived and while I definately learnt a lot and improved heaps I have to say as a performing arts course it was not value for money. I was very surprised at how low the general standard was in the course. We started with around 95 students which dropped down to around 75 by the end of the year. I would have left mid-way but once I start something I always finish it. By the end of the year we had lost so many great teachers and were being taught by ex-brent street students some of who had just graduated the year before. Not to say that they were'nt great but when you are paying expensive fees you want industry professionals. Singing and acting training was a complete joke...don't get me started. We literally rehearsed our graduation ourselves. The building is not just run-down but it is filthy, the toilets are disgusting. Any time we did floor work you would get up and be covered in black.....I don't think the place has ever been cleaned properly. i think if you have the talent and the drive you will get there anyway, and as for Brent Street, I was very disappointed and even feel a little ripped-off.

i got into Brent St this yr and i start next monday... im startin to get a lil worried now... :(

hey i was taught by viv!!! how cool is she!!! she was my fav teacher!!! i dont think she';s teachin at brent st anymore but how cool is she!!!

don't be worried! everyone has their own opinions remeber and you will make yours all in good time! I am an ex - waapa & ex- brent st student also, but can't comment on what has been happening there over the last year as I haven't really been in contact with anyone. But from my peronal experience in my short time (i had to pull out due a serious injury) i will have to agree with what a lot of other ppl here have said! I was lucky enough to still have quite a lot of experienced, industry professionals teach me, but the course certainly is very dance based (35 hrs a week - 25 dance 10 everything else!!!) so i feel in that respect it was a bit of a let down in that there should have been more balance in subjects seeing as it's labelled a 'performing arts course' not a 'dance course' ad yes the singing is virtually non existent and i felt sorry for a lot of ppl who weren't singers coming into the course as they wouldnt have learnt a lot and in music theatre you have to SING! ppl were encouraged to have private lessons but the reality is a lot of students that go there are dancers and dont think they need to worry about singing or dont particularly want to do music theatre. I found the staff I did have were very helpful and supportive, especially during my injury, but i did hear reports during the year after i left of problems starting to creep in! I just don't think the course is to the standard of what it once was tho, but I know a lot of ppl have still got a lot out of it and enjoyed it and you do come out a better dancer if nothing else! I feel there are also far too many students so there is not enough individual attention and when you are there to learn and imporve you need that to an extent which is why waapa and nida courses etc... work so well because of that element (and many others:)) as to ex students success - THERE IS A LOT! Quite a lot of the students from my year are working solidly all the time - which is a hard thing to do in Australia at the moment, but once again it does come down to talent in the end and these ppl were extremely talented in all areas before going to Brent St, but I am sure they took a lot away with them! i just think different things suit different ppl and why Brent St might not be perfect for some it may be for others, just like waapa and nida etc.. so you need to decide that for yourself!

Right,

I'm only going to post one thing on this site... as these kind of discussions often get long, drawn out and rediculous... so here we go.

Brent Street may have suffered from some problems late towards the end of last year. That is a valid comment and accepted by the general populas.

However, the artistic side of the school never faulted.

The kids that they are turning out of that institution at present is absolutely amazing. The High School kids alone would rival the standard of some of those who 'call themselves' professionals.

Let's start talking about ED5, shall we? I was in the audience the night their full time course graduated. And the only word that springs to mind is amateur!!! The standard is well below that of what it should be for people supposedly being ready for the professional industry and no, I am not talking about cruise ships... I am talking about the PROFESSIONAL INDUSTRY. I'm sure the students are lovely and everyone has a very pleasant time. I did not however, see a single student that graduated from that course show any passion or intensity or hunger for what they were doing. But they danced to an adequate fourteen year old standard. There was no sex appeal... no fire, nothing that drew the experienced audience member in. They did however look like they were having a 'pleasant' time on stage.

As for the Brent Street graduation not only were there vocalists who could *GASP* sing in key but had fantastic ability and amazing stage presence but there were, without a doubt... some of Australia's up and coming stars... if of course Australia had the industry to back up the talent it is producing. Routines were mature and professional. When you watch a routine at the end of a full time course you should expect to see dancers that you simply can't take your eyes off, I saw many of those graduate from Brent Street... and not one from ED5. You want to leave a course being able to walk directly into a professional situation... not have a choreographer BEGGING you to be more sexy or dance more maturely.

The quality of teachers at Brent Street are still the best that the industry can offer. Yes, people do come and go from the teaching staff as they are actually working professionals... who of course, value their career. When they have to leave for work, they are replaced by teachers of just as high a standard. Whether they graduated in 1995 or 2004, the vast majority have professional musical theatre to their credit as well as corporate and commercial. And at the end of the day every teacher has something to offer a student, whether or not a student decides to absorb that experience and that knowledge is completely up to them.

Which brings us to another point, that no... Brent Street is not the right place for everyone. And yes, some people do get lost in the crowd but welcome to the real world, not everyone can be a star. At the start of the year people are accepted into the course because the audition panel, which comprises of vastly experienced professionals, can see a potential in that person. Whether or not at the end of the year that potential is realised... well... they still learnt something. That's true of any school, no matter the size or financial state. The people who did realise their potential are the ones going out into the industry today armed with what they have learnt and are the ones getting legitimate work.

Full time this year is only comprising of fifty students and the move to Fox Studios is something that is being done to benefit not only the students of full time, but of the High School and the Dance School. The money woes of Brent Street are in the past and just because the artistic and creative side of the company is always pushing boundaries and moving to new levels, every aspect of the business cannot be perfect and yes, mistakes are made... people are human. Mistakes are made to be learnt from and ultimately that creates a better company.

The main reason there are people who feed off the rumours without really knowing what is going on is because this country suffers from a very serious case of tall poppy syndrome. Brent Street has always been at the top for what it offers to students. People can go to another institution like ED5 where they will be treated pleasantly and probably have a lovely experience and that's fine. And to those who are 'worried' about going to Brent Street for full time... it's best that you have some perspective on each course and what YOU will get out of them, because when the two schools are compared... well there really is no comparison.

To all the students who are starting Brent Street full time this year and might read this... you will have an intense and emotional year full of challenges and triumphs. I personally believe that to survive in this industry you have to go through and slog out an intense year and not just have a 'lovely time' doing jete's down the corner with a smile on your face. There should be passion, anger, love and a handful of other emotions that will ultimately make you a better performer. Full timers will experience this.

This is also the opinion of an past student, not a teacher who is no longer on the faculty and subsequently teaching at a lesser school with a bag of chips on their shoulder. A student who LOVED their year at Brent Street and has had an amazing ride sinse graduating... a ride I never would have had if it wasn't for the amazing teachers that are exclusive to Brent Street, hey... no matter how dirty the floors are!!! :o) Who ever said that you shouldn't be gettin a little dirty when you dance anyways.

Later...

ROBO, you truley and obviously left brent street with a bad taste in your mouth and are now running your own Singing School in Newtown...'Sing over king' i believe its called. good for you for riding Linda Nagle all the way to having some sort of name.! Brent Street, for all who are interested, is goin very strong and have lowered its number of fulltimers nearly inhalf to stop the rumours that they only take kids for the money. There staff are at there best, and have had some of the best results in the history of Brent street. Trust me...It is the ONLY place in NSW and some say Australia to recive tuition from the country's finest. no to dis other institutions, but EVERYONE has come through brent street at some stage, weather they are a teacher or student. If it wasnt for brent street people like YOU ROB would have a leg to stand on!!! ROCK ON ALL!!!

I've never seen such talent come out of a school in da past 5yrs.. Brent street is da Bomb and all you haters obviously got burnt and left with bigger ego's than their new building!!! Back off! as for ex students who are doggin em... your obviously not very talented!! cause if you were...you'd be singing their praises. who cares if da floors are a little dusty...your a princess obviously and never worked a hard day in your life!! wake up ya'll....

All their teachers are industry Pro's... in dance...Kelley Abbey(if you need to know who she is..you aint worth it), Cameron mitchell(same goes), Matt Lee(We Will rock you, RENT, toured with Britney spears), JACQUI HOWARD( owner of da street, Westside Story,Sweet charity, Dancin Man), Sarah Bolter(straight from da celine dion show in Vegas), Christopher Horsey (tap dogs) Bill Pengelly( cHoreographic Legend)!! Singing... Lisa Callingham, Deb Mitchellmore(both Musical theatre stars), Anne Marie Mcdonald, Christine and Sharon Muscat(s2s), Rebecca Tapia... Acting... Robyn Moase, Sam Noble, John Noble(Lord of the Rings)...Shall i go on...i will...MASTER CLASSES....Caroline O'connor(Moulin Rouge, De Lovely, DIVA of the stage) , Todd Mckenny(Dancing with the stars, Dancing man, Westside story), David Atkins(if you need to know, not worth it) ...MORE??

Who says thats a bad standard!!! International...I think so!!

quiet achievers can stay quiet...Brent street is Loud and proud..HEAR IT!! be a part of it!! i dare ya....

All you haters, JUST JEALOUS!!! move on....

I am one of many who made the move to Brent Street from Adelaide. Cameron Mitchell came from Adelaide too, and yes he is one of the best and one of the owners and hopefully he can turn the school around.

BUT, I was extremely disappointed with what I got for my money. How well can you be noticed amoungst the 100 of students dancing in the studio. Had my singing and acting skills improved. I was told as a full time performing arts student I would be 'jack of all trades' so to speak. I was an advanced dancer before I got there. Most could dance at an intermediate level. I was one of the lucky ones cos I would speak up and I fitted in. And like most places, very bitchy and you have to push your way in.

The end of year concert was very average- we have better schools in Adelaide like the one Cameron Mitchell came from.

Brent Street is an over rated and basically just a dance school. If you've got the money to pay for the course your in or thats what it used to be like.

Dont get me wrong I loved the dance classes and I loved the teachers but you can get the same standard if not better at the Sydney Dance Company for example. To be in music theatre you have to have it all!! You need a voice and you need to act and dance is the icing on the cake. There is an over abundance of good dancers and if a back up dancer is what you want to be, thats great. But I dont and I paid for a dance course basically not a performing arts course.

I reckon robo's got it right and even if he had been burned so what, I haven't. He was stating the obvious. I can see with my own eyes, and I am not stupid.

When you do read the garp in the theatre programs about where artist studied, yes they do say Brent Street but read on, most have studied elsewhere as well. I have since paid for private professional singing and acting lessons to get me up to speed after the thousands I paid for Brent Street to dance for the year.

I have now been in a couple of touring stage shows and my co performers, (many well known stage and tv professionals) agree with me about Brent Street and their recommendation to other young performers is, dont go there unless you want to dance only. There are more great dancers in Australia but fewer that can sing act and dance.. Sorry but you need it all if you want a career in Musical Theatre. Dance is not enough and my personal opinion is Brent Street does not provide an adequate perfoming arts course. If you want a dance school it was great a few years ago, I cant comment on now.

Hey I am from Adelaide and I went there too. I didnt fit in at Brent Street at all. I was too quiet and yes oh my god they are bitchy and clicky but thats females for you.

My parents made me stick out the year, I wanted to come home mid way through the year. I was getting nothing out of it. It just wasnt my thing.

I suppose the volume of dancers didnt help, 100 is just too many. I was an advanced dancer but many in the class were not yet they would push their way up the front and flaunt themselves even though they were crap. But that has nothing to do with the school. Putting up with crap every day was a nightmare, just because I could pick up routines quickly, you would get stirred. I am pretty thick skinned but my pateince wears thin after awhile, you can only take so much

My mum and my sisters came to see the concert at the end of the year and they were horrified at the standard. I agree with meagan, it was very very average. They do have a couple of performance classes that are good that go into the Mcdonald Comps and they get placed.

Brent Street was not for me and I have to agree it was not a performing arts course, mainly a dance course. I would have prefered more singing and acting.

Now I am teaching dance in Adelaide but going to a singing acting school part time. So much for the money my parents spent on a performing arts course. What a waste

You do the Math

Maybe everyone has gone throught Brent Street at some time or another and found it was a waste of time and not value for money. I did.
I completed the course because I have paid up front.

You can pick up dance training anywhere and thats all it offers. Yes it did have a good name but in the industry , it presently doesnt.

Maybe it can pick up again, who knows.

Hope the financial difficulty has gone and is not at the expense of this years new students.

I dont believe in bagging institutions but I would have liked to receive the training I paid for. It was not a performing arts course. I didnt think I was paying for dance training only with a couple of little tit bits thrown in for good measure.

OK...

So I said I would only write one, but just another one.

There has never been over a hundred students in a class. And saying that is giving people the wrong impression. There has, opver the passed years been 100 students accepted into the full time course, but when that happened those 100 students were split into Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced, so there was never more that 35 in a class and each class was approached by the teachers with the level that the students were at. And a teacher teaching a Beginner Singing class (fot those students who have NEVER sung before) can't exactly whip out an Aria for an entire class and expect results.

It is understood by Brent Street that it is very hard to teach singing to Full Time students as it is often alloted in group classes. It is, from the very beginning of the year encouraged that the students who are not strong singers to take private singing classes. A massive variety of singing teachers are available at Brent Street at ay time druing the week. Yes, this is extra money but if you're hungry enough... you'll do it.

To me it clearly comes down to the individual. You have the best teachers available to you whether or not you want to admit that , or whether you are just too ignorant or indeed young to acknowledge that. If you chose to make the most out fo your year at full time, which includes struggling with cash and going to private singing classes and extra pro classes as well as seeing shows and gigs, and if you chose to push your way to the front of each class then yes, full time will pay off.

As for the standard of the graduation concert. I dare anyone to show me a better concert than Brent Street. Anywhere in Australia. The Advanced classes that come out of Brent Street are brilliant, every year they are. For some of the other people that do the course... hey, you can't draw blood from a stone. If you're not that talented to make an impression... you're just not that talented. If you are one of those untalented people... you should still be pushing yourself to be the best you can be... and brent Street can still do that... they may not be able to make you a star... but they can make you better than you ever were before. Nowhere else can offer that to a student.

STUDENTS CANNOT SING AT ED5! Even if they have had more one on one lessons from thier teachers... they are still bad singers. Watch that graduating concert and seriously compare it to Brent Streets and you will find the better studio. Not one featured singer at ED5 nailed a single song... not one. They were singing songs far outside of their ability and with little technique training. And yes that is a teaching feaux pas and a mistake that Brent Street teachers very rarely make.

For those on this website bagging the studio... obviously you were one of the lazy ones at the back too busy bitching about how much more flexible or what not so and so is. You were the one's who didn't see the facility for what it is and couldn't see what was in front of your face and as a result have ended up back in Adelaide...

So much more stuff to be said... but some people just don't get it... and at the end of the day some people never will. If you're a bitter ex staffie, a bitter ex student or a bitter ex drop out... you are the people who help feul the fire... a fire which has been burning for many years but has never been able to bring the place down. Brent Street still stands and always will. Even if it is just a dancing school (and it is clearly so much more) it is still the best there is and if people don't want to be part of that it is there parogative.

It upsets me that people can't see that. And I'm not a Brent Street kid I'm not someone who had been around the place my whole life. I showed up for full time from out of state and it was everything I could have hoped for... becasue I made it everything I wanted... for those who didn't... you missed out. Spedning your time worrying about cliques and bitchiness did make full time a waste of time... and it's all your own faults. Not Brent Street's.

Take care everyone...

So what am I ****. I loved the dance classes, the teachers were great, I strived for excellence. I put myself out there, if you dont you go nowhere

Can only say its not a true performing arts course. Why pay thousands on a course thats supposed to offer everything then spend hundreds on private lessons that the course doesnt cover adequately. Maybe ED5 doesnt have sing classes but NIDA and WAAPA do. There courses are full on, covering equal amounts of each genre. Brent Street does not, it concentrates on dance. I have done the course remember.

Yes certain groups are excellent at Brent Street some groups are not. I understand what you are saying about how hard it is to get blood out of a stone. But have you ever been to Barbara Jaynes Concert in Adelaide, or Bev Palmer and Barbara Lynch in Melbourne or John Cleary in Perth. Spectacular. I think you need to check out a few more dance schools. I dont see Brent Street winning everything, yes they do win alot but not everything. The talented schools who enter in Ballarat, their groups from 5 years old to adult each and everyone is brilliant.

I have no bad taste about Brent Street, I have said I loved the dance and the teachers but for the money and tuition it is not a performing arts course.

I have been in major shows because I got myself there. This is mine and many others opinion in the industry

Funny you should post as Simon Cowell...Out spoken and untalented. Very fitting....

I am certainly not bagging Brent St either, I went there, enjoyed my short time, wish I could have finished the year tho and I strongly believe different courses suit different ppl and Brent St isn't for everyone. It's great **** that you have such a passion for the place, however Meagan is right there are a lot of amazing places out there whether they are just dancing schools or performing arts courses! Have you ever seen a WAAPA show? AMAZING, something Brent St students couldn't asaltho they are amazing dancers, due to the structure of the course there are very few amazing singers and actors! There is much more out there than Brent St! And as to your comment on AMAZING graduations - I have my year's on dvd and was proud of everyone and the standard, but I watched last years both graduation and drama night and the standard - particularly the singing was appalling - that year definately had a 'NON' singing year and this was agreed by ex Brent streeters AND students from that year, so it just goes to show, no matter what institution you go to, at the end of the day it comes down to personal talent and determination and it's also true you will find many Brent St students have studied elswhere but this is not always the case! I recommend the course for anyone who purely wants to dance and maybe an introduction to other performing areas but if you want to do Music Theatre - go somewhere else!

So... I don't exactly understand...

Are you aware that NIDA and WAAPA are three year degrees? If you want to go and study for three years and come out of that with a degree... then honey go for your freakin life. At Brent Street Full Time you are getting a Cert IV in Performing Arts, you are getting a one year intense full time course. You get one year to prove yourself... that's it. And when you have to study Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contempory, Singing and Drama to obtain your certificate of course it is going to seem that you concentrate more on dance becasuse the different styles of dance make up the syllabus. That's the board of education... not Brent Street.

No one at Brent Street compares themselves to the likes of NIDA or WAAPA... we'll leave those assumptions to the likes of singing studios in Newtown... Like I said in a previous post... we are the best at what we offer. Brent Street doesn't have the luxury of spending three years with a student... they have one. So... the comparison there is irrelevant because everything that each of those three institutions encapsulates is completely different. However... Cert IV in PA is also available at ED5, and that's who we compare oursleves to... well... let me rephrase... they compare themsleves to us.

PS - Eisteddfods schmesteddfod's... who cares!!!??? No, Brent Street do not win everything... at the same time... we don't enter everything. And we have beaten all those school previosuly mentioned before here and in Ballarat and abroad. Not to mentio that many of the Dancer's of the Year have been Brent Street students, including this years. Although if we wanna get petty and start looking up results lets look at who has ever beaten Brent Street in a Song and Dance section anywhere? Song and Dance sections really do ecompass everything singing and dancing... which is what everyone wants (according to these posts), right... and, why, oh yes, wait a minute that's right... no one ever has.

But like I said, it ain't about Esiteddfods it's about passion and respect... and those who make it from Brent Street are the one's who understand that.

Honey, congratulations about getting yourself there... that's fab. I wish I could be like you and claim independant greatness... I however like to show appreciation for my success... and I do to the people who really helped me get there.

Are you aware NIDA has the Triple Threat which is 1 year cert course in singing, dancing and acting. Are you aware WAAPA too has the one year MT certificate course in singing dancing and acting.

I have been to Brent Street, I have my cert. How can you tell me Brent Street compares to the rest. WAAPA performance's are speccy. Man, have you missed something, if you've not seen this.

The dance classes were great and so were the dance teachers, I said that before and I am so so greatful for that training. But it was not what I wanted in a performing arts course.

You can get personal and throw around abuse. It does not bother me. I am stating my opinion. If you want to dance go to Brent Street it is great but if you want a performing arts course go elsewhere.

I think its great that you are passionate about Brent Street but each to their own.

Yes I am very happy with my individual achievement, isn't that what its all about. I have performed in 2 major touring shows. If I dont get another so be it, but I have achieved my goal. I did whatever it took to get there.

A 20-year veteran of the music industry, an executive with BMG Records. He has helped to shape the modern pop music industry. Over the last 15 years his acts have achieved sales of more than 100 million albums, and he has had over 50 No. 1 records. His most recent discovery is the pop-opera quartet Il Divo, whose debut album has sold over 5 million copies around the world and has entered into the top 5 in 23 countries. The UK version of AMERICAN IDOL, “Pop Idol,” is where Cowell became a celebrity in his own right and now one of the richest men in the UK.

Outspoken and untalented WHO GIVES A RATS. Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha ha

Hey DONE THE MATH I've DONE THE RESEARCH

Wow these posts have been amazing.

As a dance teacher I have known heaps of kids who have gone from SA to Brent Street and really Brent Street was down the line of preferences and last resort for many. SA unfortunately does not provide further education in performing arts.

WAAPA was the one most wanted to get into, then NIDA, VCA, Danceworld 301, Dance Factory then Brent Street.

Out of 10 students, I would say only 1 really enjoyed the Brent Street course and he got a job on cruise ships. All the others said it was ok. So one out of 10 isn't bad.

All of these kids were very strong in song and dance.

Reading these post it appears that Brent Street is not happy about the place at Newtown. The Sing Over King keeps poping up. Maybe a past teacher starting up something himself. Ah well I can see it happens in every state. Maybe sour grapes, but hey you have to get over it. One provides dance and the other provides singing and acting. From what we have heard in SA the newtown course is fantastic. The teachers are top quality. But ultimately its what the students want to achieve themselves.

PS

Who knows who provided the dancers in the Cadbury Favorites TV ad to the tune of Anything Goes, is that Brent Street.

That Commerical was shot in Melbourne...so your looking at some dance factory and dance world students mixed in with some Pro's.

I suppose this all comes down to personal taste... what's someone else's trash is another persons treasure...

BS has been goin strong for 20yrs now, and will continue to do so...there kids strive for excellence, and those are the students who have been there from a very young age. Just look at there High School... those kids could show you all a thing or 2.

Adelaide certainly has alot to say... isnt it funny the courage people get when there sitting behind a computer screen.

But..enough.. this thread is becomming tiresome and old...just like those who are posting!

your just as boring and obviously have way to much time on your hands... back to work on that career!

hmmm... i feel better now :)

To whom are you refering. We are all working on our careers but I like to unwind and check out this site to see what dribble ppl have to write. Word has spread fast in Adelaide about this forum as Adelaide is a sleepy country town nothing much happens here, so the forum is good value.

Thats why most of our talent goes interstate or overseas cos there is nothing here for us. Our theatre and dance ppl have great interest in this site and reply to your silly arguments for a laugh.

There is obviously someone involved deeply with Brent Street replying to the posts. Everyone is entitled to an opinion but I think it reflects negatively on a school when ppl dont value other ppls opinion. Not everyone likes the same thing.

I dont know Brent Street or have every been involved with it but having someone on a forum tell others who have completed the course they are wrong really gets my back up. This is life, no one can tell you what is right for you except you yourself.

Obviously too mature for your immature comments.

This comment was removed at the request of Wayne Aspinall wayne.aspinall@brentstreet.com.au on 19 July 2006 for reason libellous content. Grant Malcolm Site Administrator

Yes I do. I was in a car accident and have another 2 weeks in hospital so the net is what I do during the day. Plenty of time.

My career is on hold

HI EVERYBODY,

INTERESTING ISN'T IT THAT THOSE WHO STRUGGLE COMPLAIN. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR WHAT HAPPENS TO YOU

THIS IS YOUR CAREER AND YOUR LIFE, MAYBE YOU SHOULD BE AT THE GYM OR OUT DANCING TONIGHT!

DREAM YOUR DREAMS AND MAKE THEM HAPPEN....A HUGE WAS OF TIME BLAMING OTHERS! STARS SHINE AND STAND ON THEIR OWN!

BRENT STREET ROCKS!

Just as well I can dance, cause I can't spell!

Hello everybody, great to read your comments and your feedback.
I have been around Brent Street since the day it began, and when I reflect on where we have come from and going to, it has been an amazing journey......a huge learning curve. I was there on the first day when there were 8 students, second week there were 16 and 20 years later, we are still overwhelmed by the number of enquires for enrolment.

Of course we don't always get it right, but we certainly strive to listen to your comments, and improve in the areas that we need to!

We have introduced heads of each department, Drama, Musical Theatre, Singing, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Leah Howard is now Principal of Full Time........she has planned the most exciting year for the students this year!.

We have had amazing teachers over the years, and I would like to think whether they are in their own business now, or teaching else where, that we are all in the business of support people who wish to learn and grow in the industry! All the other institutions that you have named are also specialist and do incredible work.

We have approx 54 students in full time this year, and I am amazed by the talent of those who have enrolled. The number of people auditioning for full time this year was overwhelming! We are striving to meet their expectations this year!

Thanks for your feedback. I am always delighted to hear about your disappointment, or negative experience and take your comments with great interest to continue to grow into the school our students are looking for! Thanks for your honesty, and sorry we didn't met your needs! Thank goodness for chat lines so everybody can be heard!

Thought I might just clear up a few comments. Cameron is one of our very valued staff member, but certainly not an owner, he is too busy enjoying his ever growing career!

Last year being responsible for the financial stability of the business, I can assure you there were no staff members, or teachers that weren't paid for 3 weeks! The rumours have been amazing, but I guess the exciting thing is, Brent Street is on peoples lips!

Yes we are planning to move to Fox, to accommodate our growing Drama Department and our ever emerging and flourishing Singing Department. Our high school is creating huge enquiries for those wishing to begin or continue their careers at a young age. We have an intimate and exciting high school of 43 students!

Enquiries are coming from all sorts of talented students, who wish to learn a different way!

Enrolment for the part time school this year..over the last 3 days have been fun and extraordinary, with many students from other school....It is so important that each person finds the "right " place for them! I have had conversations with the few who are choosing to move on, and support them in the decision to do what most appropriate for them.

We have some exciting dancer/choreographers visiting each term from the US to teach, and can I invite you to our pro classes at night. Jacqui is doing a Wed night class, and our "import” for this term will have a Pro class during the day and a night class! Matt and Cameron continue to be in demand for their Pro classes!

I have been watching your discussion as the phone has been running hot telling me about this chat, and thought I would just clear up some of the issues!

Brent Street continues to strive for excellence, and as we are reflect over the past 20 years, intend to improve each year as we learn and grow!!!

I am now back managing Brent Street and have been for the past 8 months. Hope this info clears up some of the storiesÂ…Love to meet you at Brent Street

Whatever we donÂ’t get rightÂ…Â…We make every attempt to make everything else exceptional!

What If I don't need the acting and singing?

I was thinking about Brent street to get my dance up as I only really did Jazz until I was like 14. Do Brent Street take people who aren't already great dancers? I never did ballet etc, but I am very competent in my singing and acting. How much does it cost?

Log onto www.brentstreet.com.au for any details you might need.

there's always a place for anystandard of dancer.

I have to say Charity has proabably given the best advice to everyone. If it was all bad reviews, I'd have to concur that Brent St proabably does suck. (I've never been there, or even auditioned.) But since the reviews are mixed, it sound like some people are just making lemonade with the lemons they have and others are looking at the lemons and going "What? This costs too much!"
Regardless of what actually happens at Brent St, you really have to make what you can of what you have. So go for it. Good luck to all the new pupils, I'm sure you'll love it. And if it truly does suck, consider it a learning curve and move on.
It also concerns me that, if what "Whacky" has said is true, all of Adelaide is logging on and laughing at these posts. Interesting. Maybe these long arguments aren't the best way of discussing an issue. (yes, I'm right.)

No Brent Street doesn't suck! Just make the most of it, enjoy it and learn as much as you can from the fantastic teachers that you get! ENJOY!!!

Wow guys thanks for answering my original question. I didnt know it would open a can of worms.

*MuSiCaLs_FaN* I am interested to know why you didnt go back and finish the course. I know you were injured but couldn't you go back the next year and complete it. Sorry I know all of that is personal. My thoughts were you would get the certificate which would be helpful in getting a position in musical theatre/dancing.

Thank You Denise Love for your input and I'm sure from what you have said Brent Street will grow in the future. I wish you good luck

In Adelaide, in the dance/competition circles, it is very small. Everyone knows each other and basically everyone knows what others are doing. We have Alex, Jess and Sophie going to WAAPA MT and Mel going to Brent Street etc. With many doing the contemporary dance course at the Adelaide TAFE centre performing arts. Our 2 big course in Adelaide is Drama at Flinders Uni and Dance (contemp/classical) at the Centre Of Performing Arts.

In previous years many of our top dancers have gone to Brent Street and it was always a place to aspire to but lately the feedback has been negative. We had already heard all the information that Robo had explained in his post and it is interesting that he, from interstate, should inform us the same information we had heard from past students. Obviously this makes me think the information was correct. Thats why I asked the question in the first place.


Each to their own and everyone has an opinion. But if someone doesnt like a course because its not for them, you cant tell them they are wrong. Denise Love is great by accepting feedback whether its positive or negative. Isnt this what businesses have to know, to take it on board and make changes or whatever.

Well to my anonymous friend (210.84.56), while I am flattered that I am in your thoughts I'm afraid I cannot take the credit for "Robos Epose'' on Brent Street.

My name is Darren Mapes and I am co-owner, along with Linda Nagle, of Sing Over King as referred to above. I am not in the habit of participating in debates such as this but as I have been unwillingly and mistakedly dragged into the discussion, I felt I should try and clear a few issues up.

Firstly I met Linda Nagle almost 13 years ago when we did a show together at the Tilbury Hotel, Parramatta Riverside and Glen Street theatres. We instantly formed a lasting friendship and it was her who introduced me to Brent Street and recommended me for the position as a vocal coach. So my loyalties have always been to Linda first and formost.

I am indeed grateful to the Howard Sisters for giving me the opportunity to work for Brent Street. I was always a hardworking, honest and reliable employee, and I have fond memories of my time there.

I resigned from Brent Street almost 4 years ago now, and I did so because I saw a great opportunity to specialise in my field of expertise, be my own boss, and create something new and exciting. While it was difficult to leave Brent Street, I have never regretted the decision and certainly did not leave "with a sour taste in my mouth." Obviously other people, for whatever reason have resented me for starting my own business with Linda, but that is out of my control. Linda and I have a great business relationship and friendship and I hope it continues for many years to come.

I have no interest in Brent Streets financial position, or their student woes. It simply doesn't interest me, it's none of my business, and as I haven't been there for almost 4 years, I would'nt know.

If you want to really know what's going on at Brent street refer to Denise Loves post. Denise is a wonderful human being who will always tell you the truth.

At the end of last year I performed my cabaret show at the Statement lounge. The show was well attended by some of the directors, management, staff, students and parents of Brent Street. I am so grateful for their support. I remain in contact with many of my Brent street colleagues and have never understood any animosity towards myself or Sing Over King by a very small minority.

In relation to looking at different institutions please keep an open mind. Be it be ED5, Brent Street, Mcdonald college, Sing Over king, Glenda Yee, Sydney Vocal Arts Centre, or the smallest of suburban dance schools, all have a place in the community/industry. All (even mine) have positives and negatives going for them. Shop around, ask around and go with what YOU think is best. We are all on our own journey and no-one is more right than the other.

It's great to have an opinion on this site but personally attacking individuals and institutions is just not cool. Everyone take a deep breath and chill out.

Kind Regards

Darren Mapes

ps if anyone has an enquiry about Sing Over King you can visit www.singoverking.com or email darren@singoverking.com

oh my god dont even bother

really, why not??

All I can say is, as someone who attends Brent Street, it is far from going downhill. Brent Street is known for their dancers, but for their actors and singers too. A lot of kids have audtioned for the agency over the years, and not all have gotten in. Brent Street is a very 'real' place. I would really love you all to not 'bagg' it out, as it has done nothing to you. Every student that attends there learns differently under the circumstances and situations that they're put in. Students who have finshed their Full Time Course might say that they didn't enjoy it, on the other hand, they might say that they loved it. Please don't judge Brent Street based on the negative comments that they may receive. I'm not sure if it's true, but if Brent Street has not received work for a while, you must remember that these people in the industry are looking for a certain look and acting ability. It is a cut-throat industry and not a lot of 'talented actors/dancers/singers' make it. Take the advice of someone who knows what Brent Street's like. Ciao!

I also attend Brent street at the moment and am enjoying it by far. I'm not just sayng this because i got there its because i have attended both dance factory and danceworld 301, yes they both have been great in the past however accepting peopple off the street is no way encouraging to other performers. Brent Streets pupils are of the highest quality and after a term i am still astounded as some of the pupils talenst not only in Full timer but in the school and high school. The teachers are awesome and are industry professional who not only teach but guide us in the right direction, emotionally, physically and mentally. The new structure of the course is a tribute to Leah Howard and her crew. Originally I didnt think this course would offer me the training to make it as a professional and was going to use this year as a way to improve on what i did have before auditioning for WAAPA, however after a term in, I have improved immensivly along with the majority of the year and now am wandering if i need further training, im am not saying im going to be the next big thing and i would still love to attend WAAPA but after dancing for 16 years i can tell when somethings good and Brent Street is. Anyone who is downgrading Brent Street should either (if your not an ex full timer) go and have a look at a day in the schedule or if you are a full timer look at how you spent the year-as someone said were you the one at the back who was to synical to perfomr to their fullest and would rather bitch about how good(or bad) the people up the front are???? Anythin can happen if you aim high and work hard, yes teachers help and they guide you but ultimately it is up to you and only you to succeed. Thankx

As far as im concerned all that has been coming out of many professional dancers and teachers that i have encountered from Brent street are negative comments ( both teachers and students whom have worked/attended there) and has become nothing but yesterdays' dance school and ED5 and other schools in Vic. or perth are increasing in status. for that person whom commented that ED5's concert last year is pure 'amateur,' many that i have spoken to have thought last years full timers at brent street only had a voice,that was about it ( not to mention only about 3 were selected into Detour out of 70 or so students)And if need to compare just look at the Mcdonald/ City of Sydney. Brent street use to rule all sections, and over the years other schools have pissed all other them. schools like ED5 and RGDAnce have portrayed more quality dancers in comparsion. It is obvious that over the years Brent street has decreased in the quality of dancers ( the ballet taught is so bad having gone there myself) and other dance schools are becoming more successful. many of Brent streets best teachers have left and taught elsewhere from all the money bullshit that is going on so i don't see how Brent street could live up to the reputation it used to have years ago.

ummm......i have thought bout going 2 brent street, it sounds good 2 me,so i'll go after my skool cert. i dont care bout wat other people think...lol!

Yeh i went to brent street last year. And i only went for a year. Sure they may get good results and have good dancers, but it was hell expensive and in some of the dance studios i danced in .. the ballet bars were broken and so we had to hold onto a wall.. its a pretty crappy joint.

Oh yeh- as well as jazz and ballet i also did acting and singing. Both had nothing like the attention they deserved. Brent street continues to fail to think about anything other than dancing, which isnt that great neway.

there has been a lot of negative talk about brent street in this thread, my good friend is currently attending their one year full-time course and has told me a few things that i wish to share... just to even the odds with all you doubters... YES the dance training is extensive and why should they apologise for producing fantastic dancers? it is a bloody hard slog... do you think the business isn't going to be even harder than the training?... the cost, it may be expensive but think of what your getting in return, for a private organisation that doesn't get the government funding that say a university would, it is incredibly expensive to give what they do... that said i'm not saying my opinion is any more or less valid than the others on this thread but just make sure you check the website, go to open days, talk to students, present and past before you "MAKE UP YOUR OWN MIND!!!"... it may not be for everyone but then again it may be just right for you...? he that dares not grasp the thorn, should never crave the rose. Anne Bronte "The Narrow Way"

I've been doing full time this year and I'm having the most awesome time. The teachers are brilliant, everyone is friendly and so professional. I don't know what people are on about when they say it is just a dance course. The acting and singing are awesome. So to all you wannabe never had the drive failures who are knocking this course and the school, I think you don't know what your talking about. There are a lot of jealous, spiteful nasty individuals out there. Loving life at Brent Street.