Dance Connection Performing Company

Philosophy/Mission Statement

The Dance Connection Performing Company is dedicated to developing the whole person with dance as a contributing aspect of the learning process. Not only is it important to learn correct dance technique, our philosophy is to teach dancers about discipline, honesty, commitment, dedication, team work, self-control and to provide them with the confidence to work through experiences they may encounter in all aspects of their life. Dance comes from the heart and we hope that their love, passion and desire to succeed in dance will help each and every person achieve their goals in life.

What does it mean to be part of the Dance Connection Performing Company?

The Dance Connection Performing Company is a community and competitive dance company. The Company attends approximately 3-4 weekend dance workshops and competes in anywhere from three-five competitions each year. We attend local workshops and competitions, however, we have opportunities to attend camps/workshops/competitions outside of the area (Southern California, Las Vegas) if there is interest. The Performing Company also participates in community events: parades, benefit performances, half-time performances, etc.

What does it take to become part of the Dance Connection Performing Company?

In it’s inception, the Dance Connection Performing Company did not hold auditions and dancers were invited to be a part of the company based on how well they do each and every week they come to class so they are essentially auditioning every time they come to class. All teachers are constantly evaluating their students. We look for dancers who are dedicated, work and try hard, have good dance technique and have performing potential. Most dancers chosen for the Performing Company have danced at Dance Connection for at least one year. Although this philosophy has not changed, the need for auditions has. In 2008, we held our first auditions. The interest in the company was so great that we found it necessary to hold auditions.

Being a part of the company is an honor and a privilege and we strive to develop the dancer as a “whole” person through their dance experiences. Those who are chosen set good examples for the rest of the studio by: maintaining their schoolwork, attending classes and rehearsals regularly, learning from all their experiences and being responsible.

Dance Connection Performing Company Yearly Evaluation

When you are asked to be a part of the Performing Company, it is a one-year commitment (September through August). You are constantly evaluated and there is no guarantee that you will be asked to be a part of the Performing Company the following year. We realize that not being asked to be part of the Performing Company in subsequent years can be a major disappointment. Ideally, we would love to have everyone on the Performing Company but that is simply not possible. The teachers make difficult decisions when it comes down to choosing Performing Company members. Everyone at our studio is a great dancer and whether or not you are on the Dance Connection Performing Company or not, remember that dance is a lifelong experience. Anyone who has ever danced will always have dance in their heart and that is one of the most important things to remember. Believe in yourself and strive towards your dreams, desires and passions.

Who are the Dance Connection Connectors?

The Dance Connection Connectors are a group of dancers who are invited to participate as a non-competitive dance team. These dancers are chosen based on their weekly dance class commitment. It is also a group of dancers who wish to further their dance ability by participating in extra workshop/master classes as well as rehearse (outside of regular weekly classes) for a dance that will be performed in Dance Connection’s Spring show in June and any other opportunities that may arise. Most Connectors invited show a strong interest in the company and partipate in the annual audition.

When are auditions?

Auditions are held the 2nd or 3rd week of August. It is held the Sunday prior to the start of Dance Connection’s annual Workshop Intensive Here is a link to last year’s audition information: 2009-10 Performing Company Audition Information. Please keep in mind that next year’s auditions could vary slightly but most of the information from 2009-10 will be similar for 2010-11.