Business Details
20 Years
experience
Youth Ballet Training & Performance Opportunities in Rochester, MN
Founded in 2006, Rochester Dance Company (RDC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding opportunities for dance students in Rochester, Minnesota. We provide professional-quality performance experiences and rigorous training programs for youth aged 7-18, emphasizing ballet and theatrical artistry. Our mission is to cultivate discipline, creativity, and technical excellence through collaboration with guest artists, master teachers, and choreographers. RDC produces annual productions like *The Nutcracker* and *Robin Hood*, offering students mentorship and exposure to professional dance environments.With over 20 years of community impact, we rely on donations, grants, and volunteer support to maintain accessibility and artistic excellence. Our structured programs include mandatory classes, rehearsals, and performance contracts, fostering a culture of commitment and mutual support among dancers and families.
Services
Youth Ballet Training
Nutcracker Production
Robin Hood Performance
Summer Ballet Boot Camp
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in youth dance education and professional production.
- Our students train with professional guest artists and choreographers annually.
- Comprehensive programs include ballet, jazz, modern, and theatrical performance training.
- Annual productions like *The Nutcracker* provide unmatched stage experience.
- Community-driven model integrates family volunteerism and local partnerships.
Services
Youth Ballet Training
Structured ballet training for ages 7-18 with weekly classes, mandatory rehearsals, and performance contracts. Students receive mentorship from professional artists and participate in two annual productions. The program emphasizes technical excellence, artistic growth, and discipline.
Nutcracker Production
Annual professional-quality *Nutcracker* performances at Mayo Civic Center featuring elaborate costumes, live orchestration, and student-artist collaborations. Includes school shows and public performances, complemented by the Sugar Plum Fairy Tea event for community engagement.
Robin Hood Performance
Spring theatrical production offering roles for students in character-driven ballet and contemporary dance. Features auditions for lead and ensemble parts, with rehearsals integrated into the academic calendar to prioritize education and family commitments.
Summer Ballet Boot Camp
Annual summer program focusing on advanced ballet technique, choreography, and performance preparation. Designed to refine skills through masterclasses with guest instructors while fostering creativity and peer collaboration in a professional environment.
Volunteer Opportunities
Parent/guardian volunteer program (RDCA) offering roles in costume design, stage crew, marketing, and event coordination. Strengthens productions through community involvement while providing hands-on experience in theatrical operations and arts administration.
People
Daniel Klinkhammer
Co-Artistic Director
A former RDC member, Daniel teaches acro, ballet, and modern dance. He graduated with a BFA in Dance from the University of Minnesota and brings professional performance and competition team coaching experience to his role.
Morgan
Co-Artistic Director
A Rochester native, Morgan holds a BFA in Dance from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has performed nationally and internationally, including at the Kennedy Center, and teaches at Dance Conservatory and The Dance Lab.
Questions
How do I audition for Rochester Dance Company Company?
Auditions are held annually in November. Visit our website for dates, required ballet training prerequisites, and role availability for upcoming productions like *Robin Hood*.
What performance opportunities are available?
Students perform in two annual productions: *The Nutcracker* (December) and a spring show (e.g., *Robin Hood*), with roles for all skill levels from apprentices to pre-professionals.
What training programs do you offer?
We provide ballet-focused training with mandatory weekly classes, summer boot camps, and masterclasses from guest artists. Jazz and modern dance components are also included.
How can families get involved?
Parents join the Rochester Dance Company Company Associates (RDCA) for volunteer opportunities in costume design, stage crew, marketing, and event coordination.
Is Rochester Dance Company Company a nonprofit?
Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations and sponsorships are tax-deductible and support our mission to provide accessible dance education and performances.