Advanced Training Program

The UNCSA Preparatory Dance Program Advanced Training Program is designed to provide high school students with a comprehensive and rigorous training experience that prepares them for diverse careers and collegiate studies in dance. With a balanced focus on both contemporary and classical ballet techniques, we aim to cultivate versatile dancers who are ready to excel in today's dynamic dance landscape.

Program Objectives

Comprehensive Technique Training

The curriculum offers a well-rounded approach to dance training in both classical ballet and contemporary techniques.

Performance Opportunities

Students will take part in rehearsals for multiple pieces that are created by faculty and guest artists, and will showcase their talents in a variety of settings, including:

In-Studio Creative Process and Repertory Open Rehearsal Dec. 3, 2025

Group piece presented at Youth America Grand Prix Feb. 5-8, 2026

Group piece presented at the UNCSA Festival of Dance Feb. 28 – March 1, 2026

Preparatory Dance Program Spring Performance June 6, 2026

College and Career Readiness

Monthly seminars will support students in navigating the transition to collegiate study and the dance industry. From audition preparation to resume building, these workshops will equip students with the tools they need to succeed in the broad context of the dance industry.

Mentorship and Guidance

The Advanced Training Program faculty consists of experienced dance professionals who are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of dancers. Through personalized mentorship meetings each semester and individualized feedback, the faculty aim to support each student's unique journey and aspirations

Artistic Exploration

In addition to technical training, students will have the opportunity to engage in creative exploration and choreographic experimentation during improvisation and composition classes. They will develop their own artistic voices and broaden their understanding of dance as an art form.

The Preparatory Dance Advanced Training Program is designed to be flexible with four days per week of required training to meet the demands of high school academics and other non-dance activities. Students have the option to register for additional classes according to their goals and schedules.

An audition is required to gain entry into the Advanced Training Program. All prospective students are expected to successfully execute intermediate level work through Level 5 of the ABT National Training Curriculum or its equivalent, and have an intermediate to advanced understanding of contemporary technique. Current Preparatory Dance students will receive an invitation into the program following their annual assessment.

Class Schedule:

Ballet Technique: Mondays: 5:15-7:15 p.m., Wednesdays: 4:45-6:15 p.m.
Contemporary Technique: Wednesdays: 6:15-7:15 p.m., Thursdays: 5:45–7:15 p.m.
Creative Practice: Composition and Improvisation: Thursdays 7:15–8:15 p.m.
Repertory: Saturdays: 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Progressing Ballet Technique: Mondays: 7:30-8:15 p.m.

Electives:

Level 4 or 5 Ballet: Tuesdays 4–6 p.m.
Level 4 or 5 Pointe Technique (by invitation only): Tuesdays: 6–7 p.m.
Upper Division Ballet Technique: Saturdays 9–10:30 a.m.
Senior Jazz Technique: Saturdays 1:15–2:15 p.m.

Students must be a rising 9th grader by Sept. 1 to be eligible for the Advanced Training Program. Audition is required.

Upcoming Auditions and Events

Audition on Saturday, Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. according by age group, or schedule an audition outside audition dates by emailing prepdance@uncsa.edu