Where Dedication Meets the Spotlight
The Company represents the peak performance opportunity at Elevate Dance & Fitness Studio. Produced annually in partnership with Dance Theatre South, this audition-based performance is the studio's crown jewel, giving qualified upper-level dancers the chance to step into a full-length, full-story ballet each winter. Dancers bring theatrical storytelling to life on stage, developing deep stage presence and artistic maturity.
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The Journey to the Main Stage
Stepping onto the main stage requires seasonal dedication, disciplined training, and structured preparation. Below is the annual timeline for dancers aspiring to perform in our winter full-story ballet production. Enrolling in prerequisite technical classes at Elevate Dance & Fitness Studio before August ensures your dancer is eligible for auditions.
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Phase 1: Late August - Company Auditions
Audition & Role Casting
Held annually in late August at our Camilla studio, auditions are open to active Elevate students enrolled in mandatory prerequisite classes. Dancers execute technical combinations and expressive movement before a panel of directors to determine role placements.
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Phase 2: October - Rehearsals Begin
Choreography & Ensemble Building
Weekly rehearsals begin in October, taking place on weekends to respect academic schedules. Younger and intermediate roles feature lighter time commitments to keep participation approachable, while lead roles participate in detailed staging sessions.
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Phase 3: Late January - Full-Story Ballet Production
Theatrical Showcase Performance
The culminating artistic milestone of the season. Dancers perform in a full-length classical ballet complete with professional stage lighting, theatrical sets, and custom costuming over multiple weekend showtimes for our regional community.
Scenes From Our Full-Story Ballets
Every winter, Company dancers share the stage with Dance Theatre South in a full-length, full-story ballet, complete with professional stage lighting, theatrical sets, and custom costuming. These photos come from two recent productions, from the youngest ensemble dancers to the full cast bow.
Studio Prerequisite Matrix for Audition Eligibility
To ensure dancers possess the technical foundation, strength, and spatial awareness needed for full-length theatrical rehearsals, active enrollment in specific weekly technique classes at Elevate Dance & Fitness Studio is required. Review the eligibility requirements below to ensure your dancer's weekly schedule is aligned before August auditions.
| Target Company Tier | Age & School Grade | Mandatory Required Classes | Recommended Electives | Audition Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Performance Corps | Ages 10-12 (5th-7th Grade) | Ballet 5a or Ballet 5b (Min. 1x weekly) | Intermediate Jazz, Contemporary | Eligible with Ballet 5 enrollment |
| Senior Performance Corps | Ages 13+ (8th Grade+) | Ballet 6 (Min. 2x weekly) | Advanced Contemporary, Advanced Jazz | Eligible with Ballet 6 enrollment |
| Pointe / Lead Roles | Ages 13+ (Instructor Evaluated) | Ballet 6 + Pre-Pointe/Pointe (2x weekly) | Advanced Contemporary | Required evaluation for Pointe roles |
Clear Guidance for Company Families
Answers to common parent questions about auditioning, time commitments, and performing with Dance Theatre South.
Who is eligible to audition for The Company?
Auditions are open to active Elevate Dance & Fitness Studio students enrolled in our upper-level training program (Level 5a, Level 5b, and Level 6 / Ages 10+) who meet the mandatory weekly ballet class requirements.
Is there an audition fee?
A small audition registration fee covers production administrative costs. Detailed fee breakdowns are distributed to parents in mid-summer prior to August auditions.
What is the rehearsal schedule like and how much time is required?
Rehearsals take place primarily on Saturdays and Sunday afternoons between October and January. Younger ensemble roles rehearse for 1 to 2 hours per week, while lead principal roles require longer weekend rehearsal blocks.
Are there additional costs beyond monthly studio tuition?
Participating in a full-story ballet involves a production fee that covers theatrical costume rentals, auditorium staging, and performance tights. Payment plans are available to keep participation accessible for all dance families.
Does my child need to take all recommended prerequisite classes to audition?
Dancers must take the mandatory Ballet requirement for their level (Ballet 5 or Ballet 6). While Jazz and Contemporary are highly recommended to build stylistic versatility, they are not mandatory for audition entry.
What if my child auditions and does not make The Company?
Auditioning is a valuable growth experience. Every dancer receives encouraging, constructive feedback from instructors. Dancers who do not receive a cast placement are welcomed warmly into all regular studio classes and continue working toward our May Spring Showcase.
What is Dance Theatre South?
Dance Theatre South is a regional non-profit performance organization dedicated to bringing classical ballet productions to local audiences. Elevate Dance & Fitness Studio serves as the primary training and talent provider for Dance Theatre South productions.
Ready to Reach New Heights?
Performing in a full-story ballet is one of the most rewarding experiences a dancer can have. Discover everything you need to know about upcoming auditions, schedules, and past show galleries at Dance Theatre South.
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