Researching and Preparing for Your Summer Dance Training
Summer intensives are one of the best ways to immerse yourself in dance training, refine your technique, and expand your artistic expression. Whether you’re looking to gain exposure in the professional world or simply enhance your skills, finding the right program takes time, effort, and strategic planning. The key to success? Start your research early.
Why You Should Start Early
The best summer dance intensives often have limited spots and require auditions, sometimes months in advance. Beginning your search early ensures that you have enough time to explore your options, prepare for auditions, and meet deadlines without unnecessary stress. Many top programs release their audition information in the fall or early winter, so keeping a close eye on application timelines is crucial.
How to Find the Best Summer Intensive for You
Not all intensives are the same, and finding the right fit depends on your individual goals. Here are some factors to consider:
• Your Career Aspirations: Are you looking for a program that could serve as a stepping stone into a professional company? Some intensives, like those hosted by major ballet or contemporary companies, offer direct recruitment opportunities. If this is your goal, look for programs that have connections to companies you admire.
• Skill Advancement vs. Professional Preparation: If you’re attending a summer intensive simply to improve your technique, you might consider programs that focus on personalized coaching, diverse training styles, and exposure to new movement vocabularies. These experiences can strengthen your foundation and prepare you for future opportunities.
• Training Style and Focus: Different programs specialize in various styles, from ballet to contemporary, jazz, and commercial dance. Research the faculty, curriculum, and class offerings to ensure they align with your interests and training needs.
• Location and Duration: Some intensives are full-time residential programs, while others offer a more flexible schedule. Consider whether you want an immersive experience away from home or a local program that allows you to train while staying in a familiar environment.
Utilize Your Resources
One of the best ways to gain insight into summer intensives is by talking to dancers who have attended them before. Reach out to your teachers, mentors, and peers to ask about their experiences. Many dancers also document their summer intensive journeys on social media or blogs, providing a first-hand look into different programs.
Additionally, attending in-person or virtual audition tours can help you get a feel for the faculty and the teaching style. If you have the chance, participate in master classes hosted by schools or companies you're interested in to see if their training approach resonates with you.
Preparing for Auditions
Once you’ve identified your top choices, it’s time to prepare for auditions. Some programs require live auditions, while others accept video submissions. Pay close attention to the requirements and start working on your materials well in advance. This might include: • Updating your resume and headshot
• Recording and editing audition videos
• Attending extra technique classes to refine your skills
• Seeking feedback from teachers or mentors to strengthen your performance
Making the Final Decision
After auditioning and receiving acceptance offers, weigh your options carefully. Consider tuition costs, housing, and scholarship opportunities. Think about where you will grow the most as a dancer and what experience will benefit you long-term.
Summer intensives can be transformative experiences that shape your growth as a dancer. By starting your research early, utilizing your resources, and carefully selecting a program that aligns with your goals, you can make the most of your summer training. Whether you’re on the path to a professional career or simply aiming to refine your technique, the right summer intensive can provide the tools and inspiration you need to take your dancing to the next level.
Happy planning,
Terrill Mitchell
