Is your dancer hungry for more time on stage? For students who can’t get enough of the spotlight or just want to take their dancing to the next level, we offer a variety of programs with differing commitment levels for dancers to enjoy, and work towards their goals. All programs perform in our Annual Winter Showcase, Benefit Concert, and Dance Concert. In addition, some programs may also participate in conventions and competitions. When considering the overview of the programs below, please use your student’s grade for the 24.25 school year, or their age as of January 1st, 2025.
Crew
Crew is a non-competitive performance program for Kindergarten through 12th grade, that offers dancers the opportunity to explore their love for dance, work as a team, and gain additional performance experience. Instructional focus is on individual development in quality of movement, coordination, musicality, and on group execution. This program can also be an avenue for dancers to determine if pursuing additional dance opportunities will be part of their dance journey. There is no audition required for the Crew program, and enrollment for Crew opens along with ND recreational classes in late June.
Team
This program for 5th-12th grade introduces dancers to performance and competition on a local/regional stage, by training fundamentals in jazz technique and choreography. Team is a great opportunity for dancers who love performing on stage and are looking to test the waters with competitive dance. In addition to the Jazz competition dance, Team dancers also train weekly in required Jazz and Ballet classes, as well as one additional class of their choice. Team is a one day a week commitment. The Team program requires an audition.
Jumpstart
This program introduces our littlest four to six year old dancers to performance and competition on a local/regional stage by training fundamentals in jazz and performance. Jumpstart will expose these dancers to the process of learning and rehearsing a dance for the competition stage in an effort to inspire, motivate, and spark the young dancer’s passion for dance and for excellence. Jumpstart is a two day a week commitment, and an evaluation class is required for placement on the Jumpstart program.
Core
Core will train dancers from 6 years through 4th grade to compete at a local and regional level by building on fundamentals in multiple dance forms. Core will provide an opportunity for dancers at a variety of ages and experience to train at the commitment level they desire for where they are in their current journey as a competitive dancer. This can be a two to four day a week program, depending on the optional addition of extra classes and dances. Core will emphasize discipline, work ethic, focus and fun, in an effort to build the foundation of training to set them up for growth towards their future dance goals. An audition is required for placement on the Core Program.
Troupe
Troupe trains dancers in 5th through 12th grade at a high level in multiple disciplines, preparing for both local and regional competitions. Troupe dancers will be challenged within a concentrated two-day-a-week program, emphasizing technique, peer camaraderie and execution. The mission of Troupe is to see dancers grow in their passion for dance and excellence. Placement on the Troupe program is determined by audition.
Company
Company will intensely train dancers in 5th through 12th grade, to compete at the local, regional, and national level through instruction in multiple disciplines. This program will focus on technique, style, execution, and peer camaraderie. Company dancers will be challenged to their highest potential through curriculum and choreography tailored to their specific level and strength, setting a standard of excellence at Nebraska Dance. Company is a four day a week commitment, and an audition is required for placement on the Company program.
Tap Program
The Tap Program is for 8th-12th graders who are interested in enhancing their dedication and discipline towards tap dancing, while instilling a love for the history of this American art form. The Tap Program is offered to students currently on the Troupe and Company Programs as an additional opportunity. Tap Program is offered by teacher recommendation and evaluation.
Squad
Squad is designed to offer an opportunity for dancers in 2nd-8th grade to gain competitive pom and hip hop experience. Dancers who, in the future, may want to audition for a high school dance team will learn pom and/or hip hop technique, and work on team skills to help them prepare. Weekly rehearsals and technique classes will emphasize precision, execution, athleticism, and performance through upbeat, themed pom and/or hip hop choreography. Squad competes on a local and regional level, and is an option to be added as an additional program opportunity for students already on Crew, Core, Team, Troupe or Company. An audition is required for placement on the Squad Program.
Solo Program
The solo program is designed for dancers who are meeting and exceeding the expectations of their current program of Jumpstart, Core, Troupe or Company, and looking for a further challenge to add to their training. This program is for dancers who are prepared physically, mentally, and emotionally to handle dancing as a soloist on stage. Dancers should be at an advanced level for their age and program to be considered for a solo. An audition is required for the solo program.
Program Information
Our first annual Nebraska Dance Program Expo will be an informational open house style event, for families to come and meet with Program Directors. The event takes place on Tuesday, April 16th from 7:00-8:30 pm at our Lighthouse location, 11212 Chicago Circle. Program Inquiry paperwork will be available, outlining further requirements and details of the 24.25 season for each program. If you have a dancer NEW to ND programs, and would like to receive more detailed program information, including audition dates and audition prep class registration, please complete the 24.25 Program Inquiry Form.
We look forward to sharing our Program opportunities with you and helping you find the best fit for your dancer!
