Junior Company

Dance Theatre Northwest’s Jr. Dance Ensemble Program!

The DTNW Jr. Dance Ensemble Program is aimed at young dancers aged 9-19 who are dedicated to enhancing their dance skills to advanced levels. This program offers a comprehensive training curriculum, high-quality instruction, and extensive performance opportunities, helping participants expand their technical skills, artistic expression, and performance abilities. It includes a weekly schedule with regular classes and specialized training sessions. The ensemble also provides valuable experience for those aiming for pre-professional or collegiate dance opportunities.

Junior Ensemble Auditions

Junior Ensemble auditions are not currently scheduled. Our next planned audition period is expected to take place this summer. Dancers who are interested in joining the Junior Ensemble and would like to be considered before the next scheduled audition may request a private audition. Private auditions are available by appointment.

To inquire about a private audition, please contact us at info@dtnw.org.

Why Our Jr. Ensemble Stands Out

  • Advanced Training Curriculum: Our program is meticulously crafted to expand your technical skills, artistic expression, and performance capabilities. It’s designed to provide a strong basic technical foundation that will prepare you for higher levels of dance, education, and auditions.
  • Train under Artistic Director Melanie Kirk-Stauffer, a nationally recognized dancer, choreographer, and educator whose career includes principal roles in major ballet productions and extensive professional experience in both classical and contemporary dance.
  • Extensive Performance Opportunities: Participants will have numerous chances to perform, providing valuable performing and community service outreach experience that is beneficial for college applications and dance scholarship opportunities.  Participants in the Jr. Ensemble will have the unique opportunity to perform special numbers.

Program Schedule

Jr. Ensemble participants are required to attend three regular classes during the week to maintain a consistent training regimen. Additionally, the Jr. Ensemble training session is held on Saturday mornings at 9:00 AM.

Meet Melanie Kirk-Stauffer – the Artistic Director

Few opportunities compare to training under the direction of Melanie Kirk-Stauffer. Her career includes:

  • Principal dancer roles in productions such as Paquita, Pas De Quatre, La Bayadere, and Grande Tarantelle.
  • Professional performance experience with The Huntington Dance Ensemble (later Ballet Repertory, NY).
  • Choreographer and director for productions including Swan Lake, The Snow Queen, Les Sylphides, Back to Broadway, and The Nutcracker.
  • Recipient of prestigious dance scholarships to the Joffrey Ballet and San Francisco Ballet.
  • Multiple awards for artistic excellence, including the Margaret K. Williams Arts Award and two Awards of Excellence from the City of University Place.

Her depth of experience and artistry is rare—and your child can learn directly from her in the studio, on stage, and in rehearsals.

Join Our Program

If you are passionate about dance and interested in advancing your skills, our program is continuously looking for new talent. Auditions are held throughout the year on an ongoing basis, providing flexible opportunities for you to join. Please call (253) 565-5149 or email info@dtnw.com at any time to schedule your audition appointment and to obtain an application. This is your chance to become a part of our dynamic dance community and take your skills to the next level.

Take your dance to the next level with Dance Theatre Northwest and discover where your talent can take you.