We understand our Dance Etc. program has a lot of details. Over the years we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you find the answers you need!
What is Dance Etc.?
Dance Etc. is a vibrant recreational program created for dancers who are eager for more time on stage and more chances to shine. Dancers learn a jazz-based routine and take it beyond the studio, performing at exciting community events throughout the year—including summer festivals, our Holiday Magic showcase, the Class Act Dance Troupe annual concert, competitions, studio recitals, and more. With both annual (fall–spring) and summer session options available, Dance Etc. provides an exciting pathway to the stage—no audition necessary.
Who can participate in Dance Etc.?
The Dance Etc. program is divided into three groups:
- Dance Etc. II (ages 5½ – 8)
- Dance Etc. (ages 9 to 12)
- Dance Etc. Teens (ages 12 and up)
Dance Etc. membership is open to students who have completed at least one year of dance training at DCSD in ballet, tap, jazz/hip hop, jazz, or hip hop. Students age-eligible but currently enrolled in Rising Stars will be eligible for Dance Etc. the following season/summer. During the annual season, dancers must be enrolled in a core discipline (ballet, tap, jazz/hip hop, jazz, and/or hip hop) in conjunction with the Dance Etc. class to continue technical dance education. Positions are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning with members returning from the prior session.
Why should my child join Dance Etc.?
Dance Etc. is a place where dancers build lasting friendships, grow in confidence, and develop a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork. Through collaboration, creativity, and performance, students strengthen their skills while experiencing the joy and excitement of being part of something bigger. If your child loves to perform, they’ll thrive in Dance Etc.!
What is the difference between Dance Etc. and Class Act Dance Troupe?
Whether you choose Dance Etc. or Class Act Dance Troupe for your child, both groups welcome new dancers like family and foster a passion for dance through performance opportunities and teamwork. Each program offers unique experiences, so no matter which path you choose, your dancer will grow in confidence, skill, and community.
Dance Etc. (DE)
- Required: One year of dance training at DCSD in ballet, tap, jazz/hip hop, jazz, hip hop
- Additional Training: Must enroll in at least one other dance class in conjunction with Dance Etc. for the annual season (September-May), not required for summer
- Rehearsals: Dance Etc. class held during the week
- Competition: Participation in one competition per annual season
- Choreography: Select guest choreographer opportunities
- Audition: No audition required
- Routines: Dancers learn three routines per annual season
- Practice Commitment: Approximately 1 hour of practice outside of weekly lessons
- Age Requirement: Enrollment begins at age 5½
- Performances: Various optional summer performances are offered. Students enrolled in the annual season participate in Holiday Magic, the CADT Annual Concert, and the DCSD Annual Recitals. Additional performances may be scheduled throughout the year as opportunities arise.
Class Act Dance Troupe (CADT)
- Required: Enrollment in ballet and two other disciplines in conjunction with CADT rehearsals during the annual season, required summer rehearsals and classes
- Rehearsals: Held on Saturdays during the annual season
- Competition: Participates in two competitions per annual season
- Choreography: Guest choreographer opportunities
- Audition: Audition required
- Routines: Dancers learn three or more routines
- Practice Commitment: Approximately 5 hours of practice outside of weekly lessons
- Age Requirement: Audition begins at age 8
- Performances: Participation in many summer performances, Holiday Magic, CADT Annual Concert, and the DCSD Annual Recitals. Additional performances may be scheduled throughout the year as opportunities arise.
Both programs provide valuable training and performance experience, so the best choice depends on your dancer’s schedule, goals, and level of commitment!
How do I register for Dance Etc.?
There are four ways to register:
- Online: Dance Etc. Registration
- Through the Parent Portal
- Over the phone at 574-267-7055
- In person at the studio
Finalize your child’s registration by submitting the contract by:
- Returning the attached contract to the registration packet
- Submitting it online: Dance Etc. Contract
What is the attendance policy?
Consistent and prompt attendance is imperative as dancers learn their routine(s) at an accelerated rate. When an absence is unavoidable, it is the dancer’s responsibility to learn any new choreography from another member or the Google Drive folder prior to the next rehearsal. In order to keep the class progressing, choreography cannot be retaught.
- Summer: Dancers may miss two in-studio rehearsals
- Annual Season: Dancers may miss three in-studio rehearsals before January 31, and three in-studio rehearsals before May 31
- Please note: If a student has a prior commitment on a performance date, the absence will be excused if a written note is given to the office before the final rehearsal before the performance. If an absence is unexcused, it will be counted as one of the permitted absences.
- Important! To participate in a performance, you must attend the class AND dress rehearsal directly preceding it.
What should my child wear?
In-studio Rehearsals
- Summer: One-piece leotard and tights OR shorts and a T-shirt, with black slip-on jazz shoes and hair secured in a bun
- Annual Season: One-piece leotard, tights, black slip-on jazz shoes, with hair secured in a bun
- Male dancers may wear comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing for in-studio rehearsals
Dress Rehearsals and Performances
- Summer: Dance Etc. performance shirt, black shorts, suntan footed tights (ladies only), black slip-on jazz shoes, performance makeup, and hair secured in a bun
- Annual Season: Designated costume, tights, black slip-on jazz shoes, performance makeup, and hair secured in a bun. Dancers will wear the same costume for community performances, Holiday Magic, CADT Annual Concert, Competition, and DCSD Annual Recitals.
- Male dancers will have a coordinating costume for performances with black slip-on jazz shoes
Click the button below to view the applicable Dance Etc. rehearsal schedules and performances.
Click the buttons below to view the applicable Dance Etc. reminders that were distributed this season.
