Lowry Centre for Advanced Training (CAT)
World-class dance training for talented young people aged 11–18.
Since 2004, the National Centres for Advanced Training in Dance (CATs) have supported talented young dancers across the UK, helping them develop their potential while removing barriers to high‑quality training.
The North West CAT is based at Lowry in Salford, with additional satellite classes in Penrith, Cumbria. The programme offers accessible, inspirational training in Contemporary dance for young people aged 11–18, allowing students to train at a high level while continuing to live at home.
Students on Lowry CAT programme:
- Train 10–14 hours per week
- Study a range of techniques, including: Contemporary Dance, Classical Ballet, Creative Studies, Conditioning
- Learn from inspiring local and national dance professionals
- Access specialist training within their local area
Performance opportunities
In addition to weekly training, students take part in performance opportunities throughout the year, including the annual CAT showcase each July, marking the culmination of the training year.
Previous collaborating choreographers and companies include:
- Akram Khan Company
- Company Wayne McGregor
- Company Chameleon
- Phoenix Dance Theatre
How can I involved?
Auditions for Lowry CAT take place each summer for entry to the following academic year, starting in September. Dates and booking links can be found in our upcoming events.
What to expect on audition day
The audition process is supportive and welcoming, and includes:
- A technique class
- A creative movement session
- An interview with the young person and their parent or guardian
Following the audition, all applicants will be contacted, regardless of outcome, with information about:
- Any offer made
- Guidance on next steps
- Feedback where appropriate
Fees and Funding
Due to the programme’s funding structure, we offer three types of places, all of which are auditioned for:
- Full‑Grant places: For households with an annual income below £36,392
- Part‑Grant places: For households with an annual income between £36,393 and £77,238
- Full‑Fee places: For households with an annual income above £77,239
What else do we offer?
Alongside our annual auditions for the CAT programme, we offer a range of workshops and youth dance opportunities throughout the academic year — ideal for young people who want to train regularly, build confidence and connect with us before auditioning.
Lowry Youth Dance Project
Weekly contemporary dance training for ages 9–15.
- Sep - Jul
- Thu, 4:45-5:45PM
- Lowry, Salford
This weekly programme focuses on developing dance technique, creativity and strong foundations in contemporary dance. It’s perfect for young people with a passion for movement who want to develop their skills through regular, high‑quality training led by inspiring dance professionals.
Blackpool Youth Dance Project
Free weekly contemporary dance training for ages 9–16.
- Runs Sep - Jul
- Tue, 5-6:30PM
- Based at Armfield Academy, in partnership with Blackpool Council
- Free to attend
This satellite programme offers young people in the Blackpool area the opportunity to build technique, creativity and performance skills in a supportive environment.
Get involved: Email Nicola.boyes@thelowry.com
Lowry Boys
Youth dance collective for male‑identifying dancers aged 11–17.
- Wed, 5-6PM
- Launching May 2026
- Open to young dancers across the North West
Lowry Boys is our newest programme, bringing together male‑identifying dancers to train in a creative, supportive space. Sessions focus on technical development, creative exploration and performance opportunities.
If you are interested in any of the opportunities above and which to get involved, please email CAT@thelowry.com or call us on 0161 876 2104
Additionally, if you wish to be added to our database and receive notice of opportunities when they go live, please provide your email here to be a part of our mailing list.
U Dance
Alongside our range of programmes, we are also the proud host of the Regional U Dance Northwest (NW) Festival, which is part of the National U Dance Festival framework produced by One Dance UK. For 1 weekend in spring each year Lowry is flooded with talented young dancers from the region to network, engage in workshops and present their performance work on the Quays Stage for consideration to then represent the Northwest region at the National Event held in Summer.
If you are interested in participating in U Dance North West in the future, please feel free to contact us at udance@thelowry.com where we can answer any of your questions and inform you about the process to be a part of U Dance Northwest 2027.
Upcoming events
- CAT Annual Audition: 30 MAY 2026
- CAT Annual Production: 10 & 11 JUL 2026
Lowry CAT Open Day
Lowry CAT: Audition Day Event
FAQs
What are the fees for the CAT Programme?
The fees for the CAT Programme annually are £4,193.00 however based on your annual income.
Does it matter if I haven’t had a lot of experience in Dance?
No formal dance experience is required; we are looking for enthusiastic and motivated young people with exceptional potential and an interest in pursuing dance as a career.
How will I fit this in with my schoolwork?
All classes as part of the Dance CAT schemes happen out of school hours. If your local Dance CAT offers classes during the week these are restricted to the evenings and you should still have time to do your homework, other provision occurs at weekends. The course leaders and /or mentors can help you plan your time using your Individual Training Plan (ITP) so that you fit in both your schoolwork and your dance lessons.
What about my current dance classes/school?
The Centre for Advanced Training is a prevocational training course which does need a high level of commitment. You will need to be able to attend all the classes on this course and we advise you to be realistic about how much you can take on at once. The number of dance classes you want to do each week is a decision you need to make with your parents/guardians and in conversation with the Centre for Advanced Training course leaders.
What if I can’t make all my sessions during the week?
The Centre for Advanced Training is for young dancers who can fully commit and attend all sessions. Most Dance CATs deliver their main programme at weekends and weekday provision varies across each centre. You should look at your Nearest Dance Cat page to find out what is provided.
Does the course only last for a year?
Most students stay on the programme for several years. Attendance, commitment and progress are monitored across your time on CAT to ensure you are supported and encouraged to do well. Some decide the Dance CAT is not for them and may leave after one or more years, receiving documentation to say they attended a Dance CAT.
What if I don’t know if a career in dance is for me?
The scheme will give you the dance training and information to help you decide if a career in dance is for you. Places are offered on a yearly basis and if you choose to leave at the end of a year you will receive documentation to say you have participated in the course.