Aerial Dance Chicago’s Youth Dance Ensemble is focused on the development of aerial dance artistry within the spirit of community and ensemble.


ABOUT THE ENSEMBLE

The Youth Dance Ensemble was created by Artistic Director Chloe Jensen in 2002 to take the unique vision that guides ADC's professional company and extend it to young artists. Comprised of dedicated young dancers ages 10-18, YDE provides a nurturing and challenging atmosphere for artists to rise to their fullest potential.

Youth Dance Ensemble performing at The Green at 320 in downtown Chicago, June 2024.

2024-2025 Season Details

REQUIRED 2024-2025 SEASOn COMMITMENT 

  • Commitment Period: August 19, 2024 - April 25, 2025

  • YDE dancers must be present and on time to ALL classes, rehearsals and performances. No exceptions.

  • Bookmark ADC’s School Schedule page for term dates and studio closures.

REQUIRED PERFORMANCES

  • All performances are required. You must commit to all performances below to join YDE.

    • December 6-8, 2024: Studio Production at Aerial Dance Chicago

    • April 1-5, 2025: 25th Anniversary Concert at Ruth Page Center for the Arts

    • April 25, 2025: Youth Ensemble Showcase at Aerial Dance Chicago

    • If opportunities arise, additional events and performances may be added.

REQUIRED WEEKLY COMMITMENT

This program requires THREE weekly classes:

  1. One weekly Rehearsal: Wednesdays 5:20-7:00pm

  2. One weekly Ballet Class at appropriate level:

  3. One weekly Aerial Fabric Class at appropriate level:

Kids Who Fly

Aerial Dance Chicago’s Youth Dance Ensemble is designed for young movers at the advanced level who are ready to commit to the development of their aerial dance artistry. 

 

YDE Program Information

Attendance policy

  • Excellent attendance is mandatory for this program. No exceptions.

  • If you will not be able to attend all classes, rehearsals and performances with excellent consistency, please opt to join classes instead of the YDE program.

TUITION

  • The cost of the YDE program is $680 per 8-week term.

  • This covers tuition to all required classes as well as covers expenses related to rehearsals, costumes and performances.

NEW APPLICANTS

  • Entrance into YDE is by invitation. Please complete the YDE INTEREST FORM to state your interest.

  • Interested applicants should register and attend Ballet and Aerial Fabric to be considered for the Youth Ensemble.

  • Applicants must demonstrate excellent attendance in classes as well as continued growth in both Ballet and Aerial Fabric in order to be considered for YDE.

  • In most cases, applicants must have reached the Intermediate or Advanced level in Aerial Fabric to be considered for the ensemble.

  • Contact us for more information.


Optional, but Highly RecommeNded extra TRAINING:

  • Additional ballet and aerial dance classes at ADC. Discounted rates available to YDE.

  • Additional dance classes such as contemporary, hip hop, jazz, ballet and other dance forms at other local dance studios. Ask ADC staff for recommendations.

  • Cross training to develop cardiovascular endurance (walking, running, endurance sports), and flexibility and other skills (yoga, acrobatics, gymnastics).


RETURNING DANCERS

  • To continue in the YDE program, read the season commitments thoroughly and double check your availability for all dates.

  • Once you confirm you can make the commitment, both dancer and parent must sign the contract below.

  • Mark your calendars with all required classes, rehearsals and performance dates.

  • Register each term before the registration deadlines.

  • Be on time to all YDE classes, rehearsals and performances and strive for excellent attendance.


Youth Dance Ensemble 2024-2025 Season Contract