Residential Programs

Pre-Professional Division

June 26–August 15, 2026
Ages 16–21

This prestigious program is geared toward advanced dancers either preparing to enter, or having recently entered, the professional dance world. The program has a major focus on individual artistic growth, technical improvement and performance confidence. Some of the dancers training in this program will be asked to perform with visiting professional companies or ballet companies in residence. Dancers will also have the opportunity to choreograph work on their colleagues for an in-studio presentation in collaboration with the Chautauqua School of Music students. Along with the technique training, dancers will be offered small group coaching sessions, an extraordinarily rare opportunity provided at a summer dance program. Additionally, coaching in the George Balanchine style is expertly taught by Patricia McBride both in the form of performance opportunity and variations class. With three performances on the Chautauqua Amphitheater stage, one of which is accompanied by the Music School Festival Orchestra, it is unlike any other summer dance program in the country.

Festival Division

July 5–August 15, 2026 
Ages 13–16

The Festival Division is designed for talented young dancers who are eager to embrace an intense and fulfilling 6-week comprehensive dance program. The program includes ballet, pointe, variations, character, contemporary, Pilates, musical theatre and guest lectures with resident faculty and visiting guest artists. The dancers in this division will perform twice in the world class facilities of the Chautauqua Amphitheater.

Workshop Division

June 28–July 4, 2026 
Ages 11–13

This ballet division for talented young dancers enrolls 20 girls and up to 6 boys for a one-week intensive program designed to introduce the student to the rigors of a complete summer program without the anxiety and burden of being away from home for an extended period. The program includes classes in ballet, pointe, variations, character, contemporary, Pilates and musical theatre with resident faculty and visiting guest artists. This week of intense training will culminate in a studio presentation for family and friends.

Non-Residential Program

Mini-Intensive Weekend 

August 1–4, 2026 (non-residential) 
Ages 10–14

In this four-day program, students will have three classes each day with Chautauqua Dance faculty, including ballet, pointe (and intro to,) variations, repertoire, and more. Students also have the opportunity to see the performance of our Pre-Professional Division with the Music School Festival Orchestra in the Amphitheater on Monday evening.