presence, and teamwork through Chicago’s competitive dance circuit.
BENEFITS OF JOINING OUR COMPETITION
DANCE COMPANY
A dance competition company offers many benefits beyond improving dance techniques.
At Dovetail Studios, dancers experience measurable improvements quickly, helping them gain
confidence while performing under pressure. The journey with Dovetail is more than just about
improvement; it’s about thriving in a supportive community where every dancer gets opportunities to shine during live performances.
Being part of a youth dance company or dance company means having a built-in group of friends
who share a love for dance. Company members learn from each other, bond over their passion, and get a taste of what it’s like to be a professional dancer!
THE DOVETAIL WAY
In Dovetail Studios, learning takes precedence over winning at all costs. Our courses are taught
by knowledgeable instructors who work with dancers at every stage of their journey.
As a studio run by professional dancers, we understand what it takes to be successful in this field. Our commitment is to ensure each child learns dance in a way that builds both confidence and skill. For goal-driven dancers involved in our dance competition companies, the Company
provides opportunities to excel and achieve new milestones.
OUR COMPETITIVE DANCE
COMPANIES
Dancers must be at least 7 years old to audition for the Dovetail Competition Company. We currently have three levels: Doves Debut, Doves Dreamers, and Doves Dynamic. When placing dancers, we take into account age and current abilities – but our main goal is to place them in a level (and alongside other dancers) that will allow them to shine and grow the most effectively throughout the season.
Doves Debut
Ages: 7+
Requirements: Two years of completed
dance training
Class Commitments: 1 day of Ballet, Tricks
and Turns, and 1 weekly rehearsal
Doves Dreamers
Ages: 8+
Requirements: Three years of completed
dance training
Class Commitments: 2 days of Ballet, 1 Tricks
and Turns, 1 Contemporary and 1 Musical
Theater class per week and 2 weekly
rehearsals
Doves Dynamic
Ages: 8+
Requirements: Three years of completed
dance training
Class Commitments: 2 days of Ballet, Tricks
and Turns, Contemporary, Musical Theater
and 2 weekly rehearsals
Attendance Policy
Dancers are permitted a total of two unexcused absences for rehearsals and three for classes each session. Unexcused absences include travel, birthday parties, or other sports team commitments, while excused absences include illness, religious events, family emergencies, etc. Additional absences may result in withdrawal from performing.
For your absence to be excused – please email dovetailstudios@gmail.com with Alicia cced when you can. In the event of an unexcused absence, please still email us especially if you do have advanced notice.
If families go over these allotted absences, they have a couple of options; for rehearsal absences, you will have to schedule a private lesson with the teacher whose rehearsal your student has missed (privates are $75). For missed technique classes, students can make up in a similar class (for example if they miss a ballet class, they can make up in a level below or take a Jazz class that is a similar level).
Performance Commitments and Fees
The Dovetail Competitive Dance Companies work towards one or two competition pieces per
year. Attendance at competition events, rehearsals, and classes is mandatory. Each competition
requires an entry fee set by the hosting organization, typically based on the number of dancers
and the level of the dance company. Additional fees from Dovetail for teacher accompaniment
range from $150-200, split among team members. All Doves members receive a 10% discount
on session classes.
COMPETITION COMPANY PLACEMENT
Dancers are evaluated and placed into the appropriate Doves Company based on their skills
and experience. For evaluations, dancers should bring ballet or jazz shoes and wear leotards,
tights, or other form-fitting dancewear. Hair should be pulled back and away from the face.
Joining Dovetail Studio’s Competitive Dance Company is more than just about competition; it’s
about growth, community, and the pursuit of excellence in the art of dance. Don’t miss out on
this opportunity to be part of something extraordinary!
If you are interested in a private lesson, please email dovetailstudios@gmail.com with the faculty member you would like a private with and your availability. For any birthday party inquiries, please email joannaread.read@gmail.com. For trial classes, please email dovetailstudios@gmail.com with your name, students name, birthdate and what class they’re interested in trying. Our dance classes for youth are designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and foster a love for movement in a supportive and energetic environment. We hope you book a dance class appointment with us!
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gET IN TOUCH WITH US
Reach out and anytime if you have questions or concerns about anything we offer here at Dovetail Studios! We are here to help!
