CURRENT PROGRAMS
We develop programs designed for emerging and established dance artists with ballet technique and traditional modern training. To build our capacity to service the greater Washington, D.C. area, we have created the following programs.
Apprentice Program
The Apprentice Program is designed for previous trained dancers interested in becoming a member of Dissonance Dance Theatre. Apprentices work alongside company members, within the same duration of hours, during rehearsals and performances to develop an understanding of the company aesthetic, style and approach to training. Apprentices begin at twenty years of age and perform with the company. This is a non paid position; however selected apprentices have the opportunity to become members of Dissonance Dance Theatre.
Work Study Program
Dedicated, focused Work-study volunteers take classes and workshops in exchange for performing basic administrative duties. Work-study personnel handle administrative duties off-site, at Dissonance events and performances. Twenty is the minimum age required for work-study staff. Dissonance accepts 2-3 work study dancers a season. Season runs from summer through spring of the following year.
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Trainee Program
Designed to further the training of interested dance artists, the Trainee Program nurtures and develops dancers between the ages of 16 and 23 years old who are interested in contemporary and classical ballet forms of dance. Selected Trainees have the opportunity to perform at community engagements, artistic events and Dissonance Dance Theatre productions.
Starting at ages 16-23 years old, 6-8 selected trainees take 2-3 classes and workshops each Sunday with Artistic Director Shawn Short.
Tuition is $100 a month for approximately 20 weeks (9 months). Classes are currently scheduled on Sundays 3:30pm.
Interested dancers please send an email entitled “Trainee Program” attached with a body shot and dance resume to Shawn Short at sshort@ddtdc.com. For dancers outside of the age range, please contact Shawn.
Registration is ongoing and classes are held at Flashpoint 916 G St NW. Please accompany your $100 or checks payable to DDT Arts LLC during first day of class.
PROGRAM REVIEWS
"Thanks to the Summer Contemporary Ballet program, my daughter Diamond auditioned and was accepted into the Dance Theatre of Harlem Residency at the Kennedy Center!"
— Sandra Ebron, Proud Parent of Diamond Ebron,
Student of DDT's Summer Contemporary Ballet Program
"Thank you so much for allowing my daughter to be part of your workshop. Dedication, discipline and determination is key for our youth. Please continue to keep us in mind for future workshops."
— LaShawn Lewis, Proud Parent of Jakai'la Lewis,
Student of DDT's Summer Contemporary Ballet Program
"It's one thing to be able to explain something but it takes a good instructor to make their students see...that's what Shawn does."
— Sedrick Moody, English Teacher,
Student of DDT's Summer Contemporary Ballet Program
"I really enjoyed you teaching my daughter. The way that you stayed on her while she is in class is good because she respects you and I also respect your outlook on her dancing."
— Ms. Hubbard, Proud Parent of Shoanna Hubbard,
Student of DDT's Summer Contemporary Ballet Program
"I really want to thank you for everything your training has made me so confident in dance calls. I love you!"
— Patrick Cragin, Former DDT Company Member,
Performer with National Touring Cast of Grease
