September 2nd, 2025 - May 24th, 2026
Pre-Professional Program
The Pre-Professional Program at the Academy of Nickerson-Rossi Dance (NRD) provides rigorous training designed for dedicated dancers aiming to pursue collegiate or professional careers in dance. This program offers comprehensive instruction in classical ballet, modern, contemporary, and jazz techniques, complemented by performance opportunities and mentorship from industry professionals.
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Programming Structure
Level 2, 3, 4
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Level 2
Intermediate Level
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Level 3
Upper-Intermediate
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Level 4
Advanced Level
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Tracks
The Training Track
Provides students level 2 - 4 who want to focus solely on their dance training and dance class schedule with one scheduled performance before summer break.​
Students can select from all classes available at their level and all drop-in classes.
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The Performance Track
Provides level 2 - 4 students with multiple performances, masterclasses, workshops, and scholarship opportunities. ​​
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Students are required to take one ballet and one modern and attend pre-professional rehearsals.
Students can select from all classes available at their level and all drop-in classes.
TRAINING TRACK
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Cost:
$448 a month​
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Up to 11 hrs of weekly training and one end-of-year performance​​​​​​​
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PERFORMANCE TRACK
Cost:
$600 a month
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Up to 13.5 hrs of weekly training, additional workshops, and multiple performances​​
Palm Springs Class Schedule
Palm Desert Class Schedule
Why the pre-pro program?
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Professional Immersion
Students don't just take classes; they train alongside and perform with the Nickerson-Rossi Dance Company. This real-world exposure fast-tracks their readiness for collegiate programs or a professional career, providing invaluable insight into the discipline, artistry, and expectations of the industry.
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Mentorship and Individual Growth
Dancers receive direct mentorship from seasoned professionals, including artistic director Michael Nickerson-Rossi. This personalized guidance helps students refine their craft, build confidence, and chart a clear path toward their future goals in dance.
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Holistic Development
Beyond technique, the program emphasizes self-expression. Students gain life skills, such as time management, resilience, and teamwork, that serve them well both in and outside the studio.
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Performance and Visibility
With frequent showcases and events, students are not only gaining experience but they’re also being seen. This visibility can lead to future auditions, scholarships, and professional connections that are otherwise hard to secure at a young age.
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In short, the program transforms passionate students into prepared, polished, and empowered pre-professionals, ready to take their next big step in the dance world.
Are you new to the Academy and are interested in enrolling?
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Apply at the link below to schedule a class placement screening
and to receive more information about our programming.
“Nickerson-Rossi Dance (NRD) is a valued Community Art Partner with Palm Springs Unified. Nickerson-Rossi Dance not only has dance programs in our schools as a partner but also has provided high-quality professional development for our dance teachers. NRD truly cares about providing all students with quality dance instruction. NRD not only has a heart for students but also is community-minded. And, on top of all of this, NRD has a world-class professional dance company. It is a dream to collaborate with Nickerson-Rossi Dance.”
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Barbara Anglin
Coordinator of Visual and Performance Arts
for Palm Springs Unified School District