As we continue to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic, the safety of our students, families, teaching artists, accompanists and staff is our top priority. For this school year we have designed an in-person schedule that incorporates virtual options, with the ability to pivot to a fully virtual schedule if needed. Safety Protocols continue at TU Dance Center including recommended use of masks for all, hand washing before and after class, smaller class sizes, social distancing, and more (please review the TU Dance Community Safety Statement).
The School at TU Dance Center is changing to a yearly-based enrollment, with the exception of Creative Movement and Dancing Together which continue by sessions (Fall and Spring). This change will simplify the enrollment process for both families and staff.
2022-2023 Pre-Professional Program | September 12, 2022 – May 20, 2023
To register, please complete the five-step registration process. 1) Please find the online pre-registration below under the specific level you are interested in and select a payment option, 2) Make a tuition payment (in full or by selecting a payment plan), 3) If requesting a payment plan please submit the 2022-2023 Payment Plan Form, and 4) click here to submit the 2022-2023 Pre-Professional Online registration form.
Registration Deadline Extended: September 11, 2022
Please read the TUDC Tuition Policy.
For level placement for new students (for ages 11-24), please email a video with a 1 minute modern/improvisation phrase and 1 minute ballet phrase to education@tudance.org. Please provide the student name, desired level to enroll and a brief description of dance training if any.
If you wish to apply for financial aid, please submit the Financial Aid Application with supporting documents via email. Contact us at education@tudance.org or (651) 724-9708 with any questions.
The School at TU Dance Center Portal (password protected):
https://www.tudance.org/portal/
Level 1
An entry level into the Pre-Professional Program for students typically aged 11 and above who wish to experience a more focused training in TU Dance Center’s pre-professional dance program. Students train in Ballet, Modern, African Dance, and attend weekly Workshop classes.7.75 hours/week: Tuesday 6:00-7:30pm; Wednesday 4:30-5:30pm; Thursday 4:30-6:00pm & 6:15-7:15pm; Saturday 1:45-4:30pm. View Pre-Professional Level 1 weekly schedule
Tuition: 2485.00
LEVEL 2
Students, typically aged 12 and above, placed in Level 2 continue focused training in Ballet, Modern, African Dance, conditioning, and attend weekly Workshop classes.10.75 hours/week: Monday 6:45-8:15pm; Tuesday 4:30-7:30pm; Wednesday 4:30-5:30pm; Friday 4:30-6:00pm; Saturday 12:15-2:30pm & 3:00-4:30pm. View Pre-Professional Level 2 weekly schedule
Tuition: 3285.00
LEVEL 3
Level 3 is designed for students typically aged 13–16 with four or more years of formal training and a solid grounding in technique. Students train in Ballet, Modern, African Dance, conditioning, and attend weekly Workshop classes.11 hours/week: Monday 6:45-8:15pm; Tuesday 4:30-7:30pm; Wednesday 5:00-6:30pm; Friday 4:30-5:30pm & 5:45-7:30pm; Saturday 12:15pm-2:30pm. View Pre-Professional Level 3 Weekly Schedule
Tuition: 3360.00
LEVEL 4
This level is designed for students (ages 13-16) who demonstrate a strong commitment to their dance education. It is recommended that students have four or more years of formal training and a solid grounding in technique. Students train in Ballet, Modern, African Dance, conditioning, and attend weekly creative Workshop classes.15.75 hours/week: Monday 4:30-6:00pm AND 6:15-8:00pm; Tuesday 4:30-6:00pm, Wednesday 5:00-6:30pm; Thursday 4:30-7:30pm; Friday 4:30-5:30pm & 6:00-7:30pm; Saturday 12:15-2:30pm & 2:45-4:30pm
View Pre-Professional Level 4 weekly schedule
Tuition: 4225.00
LEVEL 5
This program is designed for pre-professional students (ages 17-24) who are interested in pursuing careers as professional dancers. Individuals in Level 5 have a comprehensive understanding of dance techniques and are committed to developing as artists. Students train in Ballet, Modern, African Dance, conditioning, and attend weekly creative Workshop classes.15.75 hours/week: Monday 4:30-6:00pm & 6:15-8:00pm; Tuesday 4:30-6:00pm; Wednesday 5:00-6:30pm; Thursday 4:30-7:30pm; Friday 4:30-5:30pm & 6:00-7:30pm; Saturday 12:15-2:30pm & 2:45-4:30pm View Pre-Professional Level 5 weekly schedule
Tuition: 4225.00
2022-2023 Children & Teen Program | September 12, 2022 – May 20, 2023
The TU Dance Center Children & Teen Program introduces the joy of creative movement and beginning dance technique. Classes, divided by age, provide a comprehensive base on which to expand by developing body awareness, coordination, balance, flexibility, strength and musicality. Click here to download the 2022-2023 Children & Teen Daily Schedule. All classes in the Children & Teen Program are offered in person with a virtual option, unless otherwise noted.
To register, please complete the five-step registration process. 1) Please find the online pre-registration below under the specific level you are interested in and select a payment option, 2) Make a tuition payment (in full or by selecting a payment plan), 3) If requesting a payment plan, please submit the 2022-2023 Payment Plan Form, and 4) click here to submit the 2022-2023 Children & Teen Program online registration form.
Registration Deadline Extended: September 11, 2022 (yearly programming and Fall session) & January 7, 2023 (Spring session)
Please read the TUDC Tuition Policy.
If you wish to apply for financial aid, please submit the Financial Aid Application with supporting documents via email. Contact us at education@tudance.org or (651) 724-9708 with any questions.
The School at TU Dance Center Portal (password protected):
https://www.tudance.org/portal/
DANCING TOGETHER
A child and parent/caregiver Creative Movement class. This 8-week workshop is designed for children (ages 2-4) and their parent/caregiver who are interested in a shared movement experience that engages the senses of curiosity and play. Both child and caregiver will participate in developmentally appropriate movement exercises that incorporate elements such as effort, shape, and tempo. Music will play an essential role in the class as students will be asked to respond to sounds as well as make sounds themselves. Participants will be encouraged to join at their own comfort level with the understanding that observation is often the best form of learning with younger children. This class will give children and caregivers the opportunity to learn more about themselves and one another through the art form of dance.Session 1: October 1 - November 19 (no classes November 21-27)
Session 2: January 14 - March 4
Session 3: March 11 - May 13 (no classes April 3-15)
Saturdays, 9:00-9:45am
Tuition: 120.00
CREATIVE MOVEMENT
In Creative Movement for ages 3-5, 5-6 & 6-7, children will grow in physical awareness and build basic movement skills, balance, coordination, flexibility and strength. Students will expand their knowledge of musical instruments and the connection between dance and music, learn basic rhythmical movement phrases, and improvise and create dance ideas that communicate an experience or theme.Creative Drum (only for ages 5-6 & 6-7) introduces students to the basic concepts of hand drumming techniques (hands and sticks), tempo, rhythm, and music theory. These concepts help students develop their physical and mental dexterity, creativity, and musicality to inspire joyful performance and improvisation.
Session 1: September 12-December 10 (no classes November 21-27)
Session 2 (8 weeks): March 6-May 13 (no classes April 3-15)
Mondays, 11:05-11:50am (Creative Movement, ages 3-5)
Saturdays, 9:00-9:45 & 9:50-10:20am (Creative Movement & Drum, ages 5-6 & 6-7)
Tuition: 180 (ages 3-5, Session 1); 120.00 (ages 3-5, Session 2); 300.00 (ages 5-6 & 6-7, Session 1); 150.00 (ages 5-6 & 6-7, Session 2)
MODERN
Ages 7-9, 9-12 and 13-16. Through introduction to modern dance techniques, students learn the basic elements of dance which help to develop coordination, balance, flexibility, strength and musicality. Although technique is central to the class, it will be encouraged through exploration and discovering the joy of movement.Saturdays, 11:45am-12:45pm (ages 7-9)
Saturdays, 11:15am-12:15pm (ages 9-12)
Saturdays, 3:00-4:30pm (ages 13-16)
*NOTE: Students enrolled in Modern are encouraged to enroll in the Ballet class for their respective age (additional tuition applies).
Tuition: 515.00 (ages 7-9 & 9-12); 770.00 (ages 13-16)
BALLET
Ballet (ages 7-9) and (ages 9-12) is a class that introduces the basic concepts of ballet technique. There will be a focus on balancing the concentration and discipline required of this technique while also encouraging the students to bring their own joy and unique expression. Classes will include floorwork (strengthening and stretching), barre work and simple center-work. Students in Introduction to Ballet are encouraged to also take Modern for the respective age.Beginning Ballet (ages 13-16). An introduction to the basic concepts of ballet technique concentrating on alignment and placement. Classes will include floorwork (strengthening and stretching), barre work and simple center-work.
Saturdays, 10:45-11:45am (ages 7-9)
Saturdays, 9:45-10:45am (ages 9-12)
Saturdays, 1:45-3:00pm (ages 13-16)
Tuition: 515.00 (ages 7-9 & 9-12); 645.00 (ages 13-16)
BRIDGE LEVEL
This level serves as an intermediate step for students aged 10-14 placed in the Children & Teen Program who would like to deepen their engagement and prepare to join the Pre-Professional Program. In this level, students train in beginning modern and ballet, and also participate in weekly Workshop classes.4 hours/week: Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30pm
Note: Tuition does not include the one time $35 registration fee. Tuition: 1540.00
HIP HOP
This Hip Hop class is for beginners, ages 9-16 and will provide students with knowledge in the foundations of Hip Hop dance and foster skills in coordination, groove, musicality and freestyle (improvisation). While students will learn specific foundational movements, this will consistently be supported by an emphasis on individual exploration and expression. The class will also incorporate the culture and social & historical contexts of Hip Hop dance. Students should bring clean soled tennis shoes to wear in the studio and comfortable clothing that they can move in (no jeans please).Saturdays, 12:45-1:45pm
Tuition: 515.00
AFRICAN DANCE
African Dance (Ages 9-16) is for those who are new to West African rhythm and dance. This class will teach foundational movements and incorporate the historical knowledge about traditional West African rhythms. Students will focus on strength, relaxation, isolation, and musicality, all while individually exploring the movements learned and contributing to the community-based culture of African diasporic dance.Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm
Tuition: 515.00
TEEN 1&2
Teen 1: A level for students aged 13-16 who are interested in experiencing a variety of dance techniques including Ballet, Modern, African Dance, and a Workshop class. We welcome beginners to this level as well as students with minimal dance experience. Students in Teen 1 take all classes alongside students in Level 1 of the Pre-Professional Program. This program can be for Level 1 and beginner students looking for a smaller time commitment.5 hours/week: Tuesdays, 6:00-7:30pm; Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm; Thursdays, 4:30-6:00pm & 6:15-7:15pm
Teen 2: A level for students aged 15-17 who are interested in experiencing a variety of dance techniques including Ballet, Modern, African Dance, and a Workshop class. We welcome students with a minimum of two years of dance experience. Students in Teen 2 take all classes alongside students in Level 2 of the Pre-Professional Program. This program can be for Level 2 and beginner students looking for a smaller time commitment..
5.5 hours/week: Tuesdays, 4:30-7:30pm; Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30pm; Fridays, 4:30-6:00pm
Note: Tuition does not include the one time $35 registration fee. Tuition: 1610.00 (Teen 1); 1,770.00 (Teen 2)
Open Classes & Workshops

OPEN CLASSES
A confirmation e-mail will follow your successful online class card purchase. Please show your confirmation e-mail/receipt at TUDC to receive your 10-class card.10-Class Card: 140.00
To learn more about our current open class offerings click here.
MASTER CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
- Community Class with Alanna Morris | March 18, 2023
This community class is part of a series of classes at TU Dance Center in connection with The 3-Women Project. Alanna Morris's workshop in contemporary forms is designed to build community and encourage confidence in your creative expression. Expect citations from African diasporic movement, music and philosophy–specifically Trinidad and Tobago, READ MORE>> - Flow Space | Class With Guest Artist Gregory Dolbashian, November 17
Join us for Flow Space, an atmosphere that allows for the act of “pure play” to help dance artists use more capacity, intellect, sense, courage, and imagination in their movement styles. Conducted by director of The DASH Ensemble, Gregory Dolbashian, the class is a highly developed series of improvisational tools and READ MORE>> - Urban Bush Women’s Technique & Repertory Master Class | April 21
TU Dance and Northrop presents "Urban Bush Women's Technique & Repertory Master Class". Participants will explore Urban Bush Women’s legacy works and learn phrases from repertory included in their upcoming Legacy + Lineage + Liberation concert performance. They will also engage in movement study rooted in the “Liberated Pelvis,” a movement READ MORE>> - Master Class with Marcus Jarrell Willis | April 30
Join us as visiting choreographer Marcus Jarrell Willis teaches a Modern/Contemporary class at TU Dance Center. The class is a blend of familiar Horton-based technique exercises with other modern release forms during the warm-up portion. The remainder of the class is an exploration of the continuous development of Marcus' own READ MORE>> - Class + Connect | Traditional Flow: African Dance and Yoga with Kenna
Please join us this Spring for a series of 3 open adult class offerings (each offering will include 4 weekly classes) featuring 3 different Twin Cities teaching artists. Join for all 3 offerings or drop-in as your schedule allows. Each class will be followed by an optional time to connect READ MORE>> - Body Watani in Water by Leila Awadallah | April 16, 2022
Body Watani (body-as-homeland) is both an improvisational movement practice and an emerging contemporary dance form. A site where improvisational research guides practitioners into their personal ‘body watani’ through spending time with ancestries, contemplating our complex relations to land / water / home, and activating embodied memories into dancing. Developed by READ MORE>> - Class + Connect | OLD SKOOL DANCE HOUSE PARTY
Please join us this Spring for a series of 3 open adult class offerings (each offering will include 4 weekly classes) featuring 3 different Twin Cities teaching artists. Join for all 3 offerings or drop-in as your schedule allows. Each class will be followed by an optional time to connect READ MORE>> - Open Classes at TU Dance Center – Spring 2023
TU Dance Center is reinitiating its open class offerings for intermediate/advanced participants starting Monday, February 27, 2023 until Friday, May 5, 2023 . Teaching artists include TU Dance Artistic Director Toni Pierce-Sands, Laurel Keen, Leila Awadallah and Abdo Sayegh-Rodriguez. The regular class schedule is detailed below. Please see the class calendar READ MORE>> - Class + Connect
Please join us this Spring for a series of 3 open adult class offerings (each offering will include 4 weekly classes) featuring 3 different Twin Cities teaching artists. Join for all 3 offerings or drop-in as your schedule allows. Each class will be followed by an optional time to connect READ MORE>> - Dance Innovation for Seasoned Adults 55+, Fall 2022
Dance teacher Tamiko French has developed a program centered around revitalizing creativity of storytelling with the building blocks of dance creation that infuses the visual and literary arts. The 8-week workshop is designed to be sequential for participants, with each class building on the previous class. From a first class READ MORE>>