Why the pre-pro program?
✔ Train with a professional dance 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
7:30pm - 8:30pm
Pointe and Variations
Level 2-4
TUESDAYS
Palm Springs (Studio A)
4:45pm - 5:30pm
Conditioning
Level 2-4
5:30pm - 6:30pm
Contemporary
Level 2-4
6:45pm - 7:45pm
Jazz
Level 2 - 4
Palm Desert
7pm - 8pm
Ballet on Pointe
Level 1
WEDNESDAYS
Palm Springs (Studio A)
4:45pm - 5:30pm
Pointe
Level 2-4
5:30pm - 7pm
Ballet
Level 2-4
7:15pm - 8:30pm
Modern
Level 2 - 4
THURSDAYS
Palm Desert
5:30pm - 6:45pm
Modern
Level 2 - 4
6:45pm - 8pm
Student Choreography
Level 2 - 4
SATURDAYS
Locations Vary
10am - 12:30pm
Performance / Rehearsal
Level 2 - 4
Instructors Vary
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
