HSA’s Dance Program offers courses that develop students’ physical wellbeing, creativity, technical ability and performance skills. Classes are offered in Ballet, Modern, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Ethnic and Traditional West African dance. Students have the opportunity to audition for two performance ensembles. Audition schedules may be obtained from the
Dance Program staff. Students also attend performances by the Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, HSA’s professional dance company-in-residence.

HSA’s Dance Program is divided into three distinct stages, and students are
continually challenged as they progress from one level to the next. All new students must audition for entrance into classes level IA or higher. This informal audition takes place in the student’s initial dance class.

To contact the Dance department:
please call Krystal Hall-Glass, Director at (212) 926–4100 ext. 316
or email khall-glass@harlemschoolofthearts.org

Classes are offered as Open Enrollment or through the sequential College Prep curriculum that will help prepare the students for advancement to the study of dance on the college level. To find out more about the College Prep Dance Program, Click Here.

For information about Financial Assistance, visit the Attending HSA webpages by Clicking Here.

Dance Curriculum

HSA’s Dance Program is divided into three distinct stages, and students will be continually challenged as they progress from one level to the next. All new students must audition for entrance into classes level IA or higher. This informal audition takes place in the student’s initial dance class.

Students will be placed in levels that are appropriate to their age and/or ability. At the end of the year, each student will be required to have their work reviewed by a movement jury to demonstrate a full understanding of, and ability to perform, the material that was presented during the year. After passing the jury, the student will graduate to the next level.

STAGE I: For students ages 4 and above, with beginning classes that will develop a foundation of physical awareness, creativity and self-confidence

STAGE II: For students ages 7 and above who are interested in studying one or more forms of dance from the most basic to the most advanced. Stage II students are required to follow a specific curriculum.

STAGE III: For students 7 and above who are interested in a more intensive course of study in preparation for entrance into a performing arts high school, college or for a professional career in dance. Children ages 7–12 may join the HSA Children’s Dance Ensemble (CDE). Students ages 12–18 may audition for the HSA student company, Renaissance II or join the Apprentice company.

For complete descriptions of classes,
please continue onto the Dance Courses webpage: Click Here.