Presentation

Our pre-professional training

The multidisciplinary TOTAL MOVE training program offered at UMA is built on two main pillars: Parkour and dance, with an optional third pillar, skateboarding, as a creative and performative discipline. The objective is to encourage dialogue between these disciplines and to combine theory and practice within a curriculum designed for young people aged 18 to 23.

The TOTAL MOVE training program is characterized by technical improvement, the development of improvisational skills, openness to other disciplines such as contemporary dance, theater, music, and new technologies, as well as regular stage practice in various contexts.

The objectives of the training

• Develop a personal identity and artistic approach,

• Acquire the theoretical and technical tools necessary for professional practice,

• Gain practical stage experience and develop a connection with the audience,

• Encourage students to think, research, communicate, and adapt to different languages and contexts,

• Foster open-mindedness,

• Understand the performing arts industry and build a professional network.

All students, whether dancers, traceurs (Parkour practitioners), or others, follow the same program, which alternates regular fundamental courses with experienced instructors, workshops with guest artists, creative processes, and stage experiences.

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Cursus

An intensive two-year program designed for students who wish to embark on a professional career as performers or simply refine their skills.

It emphasizes the individual, the imagination, the interpretative aspect, and multidisciplinary practice.

A strong connection is established between theoretical and practical training through creation and regular interaction with the public via performances inside and outside traditional venues. Students take part in a unique creative process, guided by a team of professionals who prepare them with the highest level of rigor. They then perform as interpreters, facing the audience, industry professionals, and critique.

By invitation and after completing the two-year program, students may continue their training for a third year within a post-graduate troupe (the UMA Troupe), in a company-like environment.

This program is also open to students who wish to initiate and specialize in creation, whether in choreography or audiovisual arts. These students will have the opportunity to create works for the Total Move training program or the post-graduate troupe, under conditions similar to those offered to professionals.

Any student who completes the full training program will receive a certificate of training issued by UMA – Urban Move Academy, as well as personalized career support for job placement.

Program
(In progress)

Typical weekly schedule

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Meet the public

Students in the Total Move program are regularly asked to perform in public. Whether on or off-site, these events are an essential part of the transition from student to professional.

On the premises

Training sessions and public rehearsals, performances and concerts are regularly organized at the Maison des Compagnies.

Off-site

UMA students may be invited to perform as part of original creations produced by UMA at the invitation of theaters, festivals, etc. in Switzerland and abroad. They take part in a unique creative process, supervised by a team of professionals who prepare them to the highest standards. They then go on to perform, where they come face-to-face with audiences, professionals, and critics.

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Registration / Prerequisites

Online registrations for the next academic year open in January. Selection is based on application review.

The next in-person auditions for the Total Move training program will take place on March 22-23, 2025, and May 3-4, 2025, at UMA for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Online application form: [Access the form]

Or by request at the administration office:

+41 (0)22 980 99 95
info@urbanmoveacademy.ch

Prerequisites

• Completion of prior schooling;

• Advanced level in urban and/or contemporary dance or Parkour;

• Medical certificate confirming fitness for practice;

• Successful audition selection.

Exceptions may be considered based on age, experience, and motivation.

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Fees

Annual tuition fee for the multidisciplinary Total Move training program: CHF 3,000.

UMA – Urban Move Academy may grant scholarships to students who lack sufficient financial resources and have not been able to obtain scholarships from other funding organizations.

UMA does not cover accommodation or meals for students.