cda’s competition team
(Company)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When are auditions?
A: Our auditions are always held in May. Auditions for the 2026-2027 season are currently Saturday May 9th and Sunday May 10th but subject to change. On May 9th, dancers will learn audition combos (jazz, lyrical, ballet, & tap. Hip Hop, if auditioning for a hip hop routine placement.)
Q: Who can audition?
A: We have programs and levels for dancers aged 2nd-12th grade. You do not have to be a current CDA student to audition for our program.
Q: What classes/styles do they need to be proficient in to join Company?
A: We require our dancers to have a strong foundation in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary and Tap. We also suggest having a background in Hip Hop and Musical Theatre for further opportunities.
Q: How many years in that style are important prior to joining Company?
A: While we don’t have a set number of years that are required, as all dancers blossom at different times, most dancers have a strong foundation in all required styles.
Q: How much on average does the program cost me? What do those costs typically cover?
A: Our program is a competitive travel program and on average costs $3500-$4000 for a new dancer, and slightly less as a returning dancer as we wear the same warm up attire year after year. This includes company rehearsal fees, competition costumes, competition entry & on staff fees, intensive week and choreography fees, convention fees. We provide a detailed fee schedule if your dancer were to make our program for planning purposes and these costs are broken down into monthly payments. This cost doesn’t include your dancers monthly technique class tuition, show costumes and fees.
Q: How do I prepare for the audition?
A: Most of our dancers are already in weekly technique classes for each required style. Many participate in our audition prep workshop hosted in the spring that gives specific insight on that season’s audition. Families often choose to participate in private lessons as well to get specific needs addressed.
Q: How many weekly classes do they take and can I pick when those classes are?
A: We place Company dancers in specific classes based on skill level so your dancer is getting the most out of their dance training. Company dancers are required to take a minimum of 6 hours of technique classes a week along with 3 thirty minute weekly rehearsals and once a month Saturday rehearsals.
Q: Are we required to attend every competition or convention?
A: CDA’s Company attends 4 regional competitions every year. All regional competitions are required. We do participate in Nationals every other year. We offer two conventions for participation. Company dancers are required to attend one per season, many choose to attend both options.