Why the pre-pro program?
​​
✔ Train with a professional touring company
✔ Multiple performance opportunities
✔ Individual mentorship & career guidance
✔ Selective placements (Levels 2-4, Training/Performance Tracks)
​
This program opens doors to:
​
College dance programs and conservatories
Professional companies and touring work
Scholarships, showcases, and summer intensives
Auditions, networking, and industry-recognized training
Every young dancer reaches a moment when “taking class” is no longer enough. Talent needs direction. Passion needs opportunity. And training must evolve into something deeper — the shaping of an artist.
The Pre-Professional Program at Nickerson-Rossi Dance bridges that moment. This is where dancers stop learning steps and start building careers.
Through intensive training, real performance opportunities, and personalized mentorship, dancers gain the technical refinement and artistic confidence needed to step into the professional world. They learn how to think, create, collaborate, and perform with intention — not just execute movement.
Students aren’t just preparing for the future — they’re living it now.
Programming Structure
Step 1 – Apply
Submit your application to the Academy of Nickerson-Rossi Dance to begin the enrollment process.
​
Step 2 – Class Screening
If selected, you’ll be scheduled for a class screening during one of our Ballet or Modern Dance classes, where faculty evaluate your technique, artistry, and potential.
​
Step 3 – Program Invitation
Based on the faculty’s assessment, you may be invited to join the prestigious Pre-Professional Program or directed to another area of the Academy’s programming that best supports your growth.
​
Step 4 – Track & Level Placement
Once accepted, you’ll be placed in either the Training Track or Performance Track and assigned a Level 1–4, ensuring personalized instruction that challenges and inspires at every stage.
TRAINING TRACK
Up to 11 hrs/week
​
1 annual performance
​
Technique focus
​
Lower commitment
​
Best for growing dancers
​​
​
$448 a month
​
PERFORMANCE TRACK
Up to 13.5 hrs/week
Multiple performances
Technique + Industry Exposure
Higher commitment
Best for serious career-bound dancers
​
$600 a month
​
Class Schedule
MONDAYS
Palm Desert
5:30pm - 7:15pm
Ballet
Level 2-4
with Ellen
​
7:30pm - 8:30pm
Pointe and Variations
Level 2-4
with Ellen​​​
​
Palm Springs
7pm - 8:15pm
Hip-Hop
Level 1-4
with Corey
TUESDAYS
Palm Springs (Studio A)
4:45pm - 5:30pm
Conditioning
Level 2-4
with Chad
​
5:30pm - 6:30pm
Contemporary
Level 2-4
with Chad
​
6:45pm - 7:45pm
Jazz
Level 2 - 4
with Chad
​
Palm Desert
7pm - 8pm
Ballet / Pointe
Level 2-4
with Hailee
WEDNESDAYS
Palm Springs (Studio A)
4:45pm - 5:30pm
Pointe
Level 2-4
with Hailee
​
5:30pm - 7pm
Ballet
Level 2-4
with Hailee
​
7:15pm - 8:30pm
Horton (Modern)
Level 2 - 4
with Corey
​
Palm Desert
7pm - 8:15pm
Hip-Hop
Level 1-4
with Tim
THURSDAYS
Palm Desert
5:30pm - 6:45pm
Modern
Level 2 - 4
with Michael
​
6:45pm - 8pm
Student Choreography
Level 2 - 4
with Michael
SATURDAYS
Locations Vary
10am - 12:30pm
Level 2 - 4
Instructors Vary
NEXT UP
JAN 31
Palm Springs Art Museum | Palm Springs, CA
Nickerson-Rossi Dance's 13th Anniversary Show, Chiseled to Essence, highlights include the return of Michael Nickerson-Rossi’s acclaimed DNA, premiere choreographic works, guest choreographer Lori Bryhni’s fresh creative influence, and a feature from the pre-professional dancers.
APPLY
​Nickerson-Rossi Dance’s Pre-Professional Program offers aspiring dancers the rare opportunity to train at a professional level while gaining performance, leadership, and industry experience. Enrollment is by application to ensure that each student is committed, prepared, and ready to thrive in a rigorous environment where technique, artistry, and professionalism are equally prioritized. This selective process allows the program to maintain a high standard of excellence, foster a supportive yet driven community, and tailor training to dancers who are serious about pursuing a career in the arts.
Application Open
