Studio Policies and Dress Code

Dress Code

We embrace a dress code to enhance the learning experience for all dancers, fostering a sense of community and discipline that benefits everyone, from hobbyists to those aspiring to professionalism. This approach helps all dancers, including adults, to fully engage in their classes, promoting focus and respect for the art form. It’s about creating a positive environment where every dancer, regardless of their path, can enjoy and excel in their dance journey, celebrating the joy of dance together.

Dress Code and Studio Etiquette

  • No Outdoor Shoes: Shoes worn outside are are not permitted on the dance floors.
  • Black-Soled Shoes: Black-soled shoes are prohibited in the studio to maintain the integrity of our flooring.
  • Midriffs and Legs: Please wear attire that covers midriffs and avoid plastic pants.
  • Jewelry: Minimal jewelry is recommended to prevent injuries and distractions.
  • Hair: Hair should be securely pulled back and off the neck for all classes, unless specific instructions are provided below for particular disciplines such as ballet, where hair must be styled in a bun.

Ballet

For girls and adult women:

  • Black leotard
  • Pink tights (black or skin-tone tights optional for adults)
  • Pink leather or canvas ballet shoes
  • Hair tied up in a bun
  • Waistband for girls and young adults
  • Black skirt optional for adults

For boys and adult men:

  • Black tights/leggings
  • White t-shirt
  • Black or white socks
  • Black or white leather or canvas ballet shoes

Non-binary, gender-neutral, and gender-nonconforming

Non-binary, gender-neutral, and gender-nonconforming individuals are welcome to follow the dress code that best aligns with their comfort and identity. They may choose to wear attire from either the girls’/women’s or boys’/men’s dress code, or a combination of both. While personal expression is encouraged, we ask that all students adhere to the established dress codes to maintain the discipline and uniformity essential to dance practice.

Jazz

Ballet dress code as above, OR Black shirts and leggings/tights.  Jazz Dancers need non-marking jazz shoes.

Yoga, Stretch, Aerobics, and Tap Classes

We don’t have a specific dress code—just wear appropriate fitness attire. Tap shoes for tap.

Embracing Diversity, Ensuring Equality:
Our Commitment to Inclusivity

Dance Theatre Northwest is committed to inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for all, irrespective of age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any legally protected characteristic. Our policies guarantee fair treatment in admissions, employment, and program participation, emphasizing merit and a shared passion for dance, while cultivating a diverse and welcoming community.

See our commitment to diversity in action in this Seattle South Emerald article highlighting the diverse community at our studio.

Attendance

We prioritize flexibility with our 100% punch card system, only charging for classes attended. Regular attendance, however, remains key to a dancer’s progress and integration into our community. Should you miss a class, we highly encourage making it up by attending another session at the same level to maintain continuity in your dance education.

Insurance

DTNW does not carry medical insurance for its students. Students are required to have their own insurance. If an injury occurs, it is understood that the student’s insurance is the only source of coverage.

Holidays

Holiday vacations generally follow school schedules. Holiday dates and other closings will be posted. In the event of snow or ice, you can check our calendar page on our website or our Facebook page by 2:00 p.m.

Class Observations

Parents of all students are asked to please refrain from visiting actual classes without prior permission.

Recitals

Many performing opportunities will be available in this upcoming season, including the Nutcracker in December each year, and a School Recital in June, along with community performances. Participants must be training and in class regularly. Student-level performers who are not enrolled full-time or chronically absent will not be eligible.

Costume Fees

These fees will be due on invoicing. Costume rentals usually run from $50-75 per costume.  Costs vary, and many costumes will be rentals. We do our best to offer quality and to keep costume costs reasonable. Costume fees are non-refundable.

Video Taping/Photography

Recording or photographing at any performance is prohibited. A professional will record the performances.  Online videos and photos will be made available at a reasonable cost.

Other Policies

  • Students must follow the dress code.
  • Students arriving more than 10 minutes late will not be able to participate in that class but will observe the class. Ten minutes early is ideal.
  • Bring your own water bottle. Food or drinks are only allowed in the designated snack area, except for water. 
  • Do not leave dance bags or personal items in the dressing or eating areas after class. Take them home each night.