New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble

Hello, fellow New Jerseyans! Are you or your aspiring dancer seeking a truly exceptional and pre-professional dance training experience right here in the Garden State? Look no further than the New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble (NJDTE) in Summit. Founded in 1969 and under the artistic direction of master teacher and choreographer Nancy Turano since 1994, NJDTE has established itself as a leading institution for serious dance education, recognized for its commitment to artistic excellence and its innovative programs. This esteemed organization provides a nurturing yet rigorous environment where young dancers, typically aged 7-22, can hone their craft, grow physically and mentally, and truly prepare for higher education and professional careers in the dance world.

NJDTE is more than just a dance school; it's a home for dance where "Art happens." With a faculty comprised of seasoned professionals who have lived the life of a dance artist, students receive unparalleled instruction and mentorship. The ensemble empowers dancers with both traditional dance forms and contemporary approaches, ensuring they are well-rounded and prepared for the evolving landscape of dance. If you're passionate about dance and dedicated to reaching your full potential, NJDTE offers the highest quality training right here in the heart of New Jersey.

New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble is ideally located at 315B Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, USA. This prime address places it in the vibrant downtown area of Summit, a charming and affluent town in Union County, New Jersey. The location offers excellent accessibility for families across Central and Northern New Jersey, as Summit is well-connected by major roadways and public transportation.

For those traveling by car, Springfield Avenue is a main artery in Summit, making the studio easy to find. While downtown Summit can be busy, parking options are typically available, including street parking and municipal lots, though it's always advisable to plan ahead during peak hours. Public transportation is also a significant advantage of this location. The Summit NJ Transit train station, part of the Morris & Essex Lines, is within walking distance or a very short drive, providing direct access from various towns in New Jersey and connections to New York City. Numerous local bus routes also service the Summit area. The studio's integration into the lively downtown environment means students and families can enjoy the surrounding shops, restaurants, and amenities, making the commute to dance class a more convenient and pleasant experience. This accessibility solidifies NJDTE's position as a premier dance destination for New Jersey locals.

New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble is dedicated to providing the highest quality, pre-professional training, primarily focusing on core dance disciplines essential for advanced study and professional careers. Their services are structured to empower aspiring dancers with comprehensive skills and performance opportunities.

• Pre-Professional Dance Training: NJDTE offers a rigorous curriculum designed for dancers aged 7-22, emphasizing classical ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. The training is structured to prepare students for college dance programs and professional company auditions.

• Advanced Ballet Programs: Ballet forms the foundation of their training, with a strong emphasis on technique, alignment, strength, and artistry. This comprehensive ballet instruction is crucial for all other dance forms.

• Modern and Contemporary Dance Programs: Beyond ballet, students receive in-depth training in modern and contemporary techniques, exploring diverse movement vocabularies and fostering individual expression. This includes exposure to various modern dance pioneers' techniques.

• Professional Experiences with Renowned Artists: A unique offering is the opportunity for students to work directly with world-renowned dancers, teachers, choreographers, and musicians. NJDTE commissions new works from acclaimed choreographers, giving students the invaluable experience of learning and performing original repertory.

• Performance Opportunities: Students are given significant performance opportunities, including the annual production of "The Nutcracker" and repertory performances at prestigious venues such as Montclair State University, Purchase Performing Arts Center, and Peridance Capezio Center in both New Jersey and the New York City metropolitan area.

• Mentorship for Higher Education and Professionalism: NJDTE actively mentors dancers towards pursuing dance in top universities (e.g., Juilliard, NYU, Ailey/Fordham, USC) and transitioning into professional careers with prestigious companies. They also provide employment opportunities for alumni as staff and guest artists.

• Innovative Training and Mentoring Programs: The ensemble is acknowledged for creating programs like the "Movement Invention Project (MIP2)," which provides unique opportunities for dancers and choreographers in the NYC Metro Area.

New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble distinguishes itself through a range of impressive features and highlights that underscore its reputation as a premier institution for serious dance training.

• Exceptional Faculty and Mentorship: NJDTE boasts "top-notch" faculty who are "professionals who have lived the life of a dance artist." They are described as providing individual corrections to "improve technique and avoid injury," and effectively "pass on their knowledge and artistry." Artistic Director Nancy Turano, an award-winning master teacher and choreographer, is praised for her visionary leadership and for bringing "great works and great choreographers to these young people's lives."

• Beautiful, State-of-the-Art Facilities: The studio offers "beautiful facilities" that are described as an "8,000 sq ft state-of-the-art home." These include "spacious studios with skylights," a dedicated "pilates & physical therapy space," a media library, dressing rooms, and ample storage for costumes, props, and scenery. This creates an inspiring and professional environment for learning.

• Proven Track Record of Success: NJDTE has a strong history of sending its alumni to top universities (e.g., Juilliard, NYU, Ailey/Fordham) and prestigious professional companies worldwide (e.g., National Ballet of Canada, Houston Ballet, Netherlands Dans Theater, Les Ballets Jazz de Montreal). This demonstrates the effectiveness of their pre-professional training.

• Holistic Development: Students at NJDTE "grow physically and mentally." The instruction not only refines technique but also builds confidence and fosters a deep understanding of the art form, preparing dancers for the demands of a professional career and life.

• Exposure to World-Renowned Choreography: Students perform works by master choreographers such as Twyla Tharp, David Parsons, and Robert Battle, and work with internationally renowned contemporary choreographers. This exposure to diverse and challenging repertory is a unique educational advantage.

• A "Home for Dance": As described by a long-term student, NJDTE feels like a true "home for dance," indicating a supportive and nurturing community where artistry flourishes and students feel a strong sense of belonging.

• Focus on Injury Prevention: The instructors' attention to "individual corrections to improve technique and avoid injury" highlights a commitment to dancer health and longevity, a crucial aspect for aspiring professionals.

To connect with the New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble and explore their renowned dance programs, please use the following contact information:

Address: 315B Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, USA

Phone: (908) 273-5500

Mobile Phone: +1 908-273-5500

It is highly recommended to visit their official website or contact them directly via phone for the most up-to-date information on class schedules, audition dates for their performance ensemble, tuition details, and any specific inquiries regarding their pre-professional training programs. Given their focus on individualized attention and professional development, direct communication will provide the most comprehensive answers for your dance aspirations.

For local New Jersey residents, particularly those serious about pursuing dance at a high level, New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble in Summit is an unparalleled choice. Its suitability for locals stems from several critical factors. Firstly, its convenient location in downtown Summit, with easy access via major roads and NJ Transit, makes it a practical and accessible option for families across Northern and Central New Jersey. This eliminates the extensive travel often associated with securing world-class dance training, allowing students to integrate their rigorous dance schedule more seamlessly into their lives.

Secondly, NJDTE offers truly pre-professional training with a faculty of "top-notch" industry veterans. This level of instruction, combined with personalized corrections and a focus on injury prevention, is vital for aspiring dancers. The opportunity to work with and perform choreography by internationally renowned artists is a rare and invaluable experience, putting NJDTE students on a path distinct from many other local studios. This exposure is crucial for preparing dancers for the competitive worlds of higher education dance programs and professional companies, a feat evidenced by their impressive alumni network attending prestigious institutions like Juilliard and dancing with leading companies globally.

Ultimately, NJDTE is not just a school; it's a "home for dance" where "Art happens." It fosters holistic growth, ensuring students develop physically, mentally, and artistically. For any New Jersey family seeking the highest quality dance education that provides a clear pathway to advanced study and professional opportunities, all within a beautiful and supportive local environment, New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble is undoubtedly the premier destination.

New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble

315B Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, USA