BERTIE JEFFREY

Name of CAT: Swindon Dance 

Student Name: Albert “Bertie” Jeffery 

Bertie Jeffery joined the Centre for Advanced Training programme at Swindon Dance in 2019 when he was 15. During his time on CAT he worked with artists such as Banxy, Kieran Warner, Robia Milliner, Shanelle “Tali” Fergus, Dylan Mayoral, Bgirl Vanessa, Steady and Swoosh from Flawless, Clara Bajado, Reuel Elijah. 

How did you discover the CAT scheme?  

I was recommended to audition by my breaking teacher- Banxy. He put me forward for the audition process and gave me so much support and encouragement during my training. 

What had been your experience of dance before the CAT scheme?  

I hadn’t really experienced much advanced dance training, nor was I involved in the wider dance scene, that’s why I wanted to audition for the CAT scheme and elevate my training. 

What has the CAT scheme taught you?  

To keep pushing myself to work harder and find every opportunity to perform. The opportunities I’ve gained since my training with the CAT scheme has brought my dancing to places I wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. 

Where has the scheme led you so far? 

I joined Zoonation youth company in 2021 and performed my first shows in the royal opera house and the peacock theatre. I also started my BA degree in contemporary dance at Trinity Laban conservatoire, at the same time, I am additionally training with the Boy Blue adult company while in London. 

What are any of your future aspirations?   

To perform professionally as both a hip hop and contemporary dancer and work with established companies such Boy Blue, Zoonation and Far From The Norm. I also aspire to elevate my choreography, work with other acclaimed artists and potentially direct a professional show. 

What advice would you give to a young person who is interested in auditioning 

Don’t hesitate to audition, this can be the first step in elevating your training to professional level. The training you get in Swindon was invaluable to me, especially when making the decision to begin my advanced dance training.