new to dance
training programs that support growth, artistry, and technical excellence at every stage
Caulfield’s Technique, Performance, and Professional Training Division (PTD) Programs are thoughtfully structured to support dancers at different stages of their training. These programs balance technical foundations with performance opportunities, guiding dancers through a clear and supportive pathway as their skills, commitment, and confidence grow. From early performance experiences to advanced company training, each program emphasizes artistry, discipline, and a genuine love of dance, while maintaining realistic expectations for families. The following outlines are designed to help you understand how each pathway works, how dancers are placed, and how training progresses over time.
What is a Technique Class?
Technique classes focus on building the fundamental skills needed for all styles of dance, including strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, control, musicality, and proper technique. Rather than learning choreography, dancers develop the strong technical foundation needed to succeed in every genre.
- Build Technique – Improve strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and control.
- Train Safely – Develop healthy movement habits and proper technique.
- Improve Skills – Refine turns, jumps, leaps, and musicality.
- Supports All Styles – A strong foundation benefits every dance genre.
- No Choreography – Focus entirely on skill development.
- Required for Company & Performance – Essential training for program dancers.
- Open to Everyone – No performance or competition commitment required.
- No Performance Fees – No costumes, recital, competition, or media fees.
What is a Performance Class?
Performance classes focus on learning choreography, building confidence, and applying technique while preparing dancers to perform on stage throughout the season.
- Learn Choreography – Rehearse routines throughout the season.
- Perform on Stage – Perform in our Christmas and Year-End Recitals (where applicable).
- Build Confidence – Develop stage presence, expression, and teamwork.
- Apply Technique – Put technical skills into choreography.
- Genre-Specific – Available in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, and more.
- Costume – Includes a costume and recital participation.
- Media Fee Required – An annual media fee covers professional recital videography and digital access to your dancer’s performances.
- Technique Required (Ages 7+) – A corresponding technique class is required to support safe progression and continued development.
What is a Closed Class?
Closed classes are by placement or Director approval and are intended for dancers who meet the required age, experience, and technical level. These classes maintain consistent training groups and may include additional performance opportunities.
What is the Professional Training Division?
Our Company Program is designed for dedicated dancers who are passionate about training, performing, and personal growth. Company dancers follow a structured schedule of technique and performance classes while participating in competitions, workshops, team-building activities, and special performances. They develop strong friendships, lifelong skills, and a love of dance in a supportive environment.
Company Program Benefits
- Tuition Cap – Annual fees are capped, allowing dancers to take additional eligible classes at no extra tuition cost.
- More Performance Opportunities – Competitions, community events, and special performances.
- Well-Rounded Training – A balanced schedule of technique and performance classes.
- Lifelong Friendships – Train and grow alongside a supportive team of dancers.
Not Sure Which Program is Right?
Every dancer's journey is unique, and choosing the right pathway can feel overwhelming at first. Our faculty is happy to help you find the program that best matches your dancer's age, experience, goals, and interests. Whether your family is exploring dance for the very first time or looking for advanced training, we'll help you begin with confidence.