This distinguished program is designed to develop young dancers (ages 8–18) in the art of performance while equipping them with the technique, discipline, and training necessary for a successful career in dance. Structured in a conservatory-style format, the program is modeled after leading institutions such as the School of American Ballet.
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Students train a minimum of 10 hours per week (Levels 2 and 3) or 7 hours per week (Level 1) within a structured curriculum that now includes specialized training tracks. In Levels 2 and 3, dancers select a focus—Classical, Commercial, or Broadway—allowing their required coursework to be tailored to their individual strengths, interests, and long-term goals. While all students train together in Company Class, additional required coursework varies by track and may include ballet, pointe, contemporary, jazz, lyrical, musical theatre, tap, hip hop, voice, drama, and PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique).
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In addition to required training, students must enroll in at least one elective course and are encouraged to expand their training by adding additional electives as their schedules allow. Elective offerings may include leaps & turns, contortion, and acro/tumbling.
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This program serves as a launching point for students to pursue professional opportunities within the St. Louis community and beyond. Students are encouraged to audition and perform with other respected organizations and are provided with the resources, guidance, and training necessary to succeed in professional environments.
Pre-Professional Dance Program
Advanced Training
The Pre-Professional Program offers rigorous curriculum-based training taught by Bridgeman Academy’s experienced and distinguished faculty. Instructors hail from prominent companies such as Joffrey Ballet, Ailey II, ABT, SAB, Alabama Ballet, St. Louis Dance Theatre, and Saint Louis Ballet. Additionally, the program provides training from renowned companies through Master Classes and Auditions. We offer individualized mentorship and jury evaluations to identify each student’s strengths and opportunities, nurture aspirations and tailor personal recommendations for growth.
Key Benefits
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One complimentary elective course per student Add unlimited* courses for an extra $50/month per student
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Discounted $25 private lessons
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Personal locker
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Company leotard & tights set
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Complimentary headshots & artistic photos
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Ignite Performing Company membership, eligible for principal production roles
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*Does not apply to limited capacity courses such as Lyra
Program Levels
Pre-Professional Program students are split into three skill levels. Each skill level is also subdivided into A (less advanced) and B (more advanced). This structure allows us to better serve the individual needs and goals of our students through smaller class sizes while also enhancing the overall quality of the program.
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Level 1 is for students looking to master basic foundational dance disciplines. Through guided training, students learn the fundamentals of Balanchine technique and vocabulary with an emphasis in musicality and muscle memory. Students develop body control, physical endurance, strength, flexibility, and coordination.
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Level 2 is designed for students who have substantial technique training and are ready to take their technique, flexibility, and strength to a higher level. This level focuses on technical development and artistic growth. Students work to perfect their alignment through PBT and technique classes to prepare them for more advanced Repertoire in Level 3.
Level 3 is geared towards students who have a strong foundation in dance with advanced technique and are ready for more intensive training. This level focuses on advanced technical skills, artistic expression, and challenging repertoire. Students work to increase their stamina, memorization, and stage presence preparing them to advance into professional companies.
Pre-Pro Tracks
All Level 2 and 3 Pre-Professional students will select a focus track to guide their training. Each track is designed with specific required coursework to support the student’s individual strengths, interests, and long-term goals, creating a more specialized and intentional training experience.
Teaching Opportunities
Pre-professional students are encouraged to participate in our teacher training course which is offered two times each year. Once certified, students have the opportunity to assistant teach lower level classes that take place outside of their class schedule.
Tuition & Scholarships
Student tuition is $2499 annually (includes pay-in-full discount) or $249 monthly.
Family tuition (up to 3 students) is $3499 annually (includes pay-in-full discount) or $349 monthly.
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Each year, Bridgeman Academy provides thousands of dollars in scholarships to support prospective students and their families. This support is evaluated based on need and not awarded for student skill or talent. Complete the simple, secure online form to be considered for financial assistance.
Courtney, Level 3 Pre-Pro Member
“My favorite part of the program is all of the performance opportunities to show people your talent."
Other Fees
Audition Fee: $0 There is no fee to audition for the program.​
Registration Fee: $80 One-time (per season) fee, includes the Company leotard and tights set.
Summer Repertoire Intensive Fee: $199 Read more about this intensive in the Program Handbook.
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Students are also responsible to pay for any required dancewear items (outside of the company leotard & tights), audition fees, costume fees, and fees related to Company performances (such as tickets to Busch Stadium for the St. Louis Cardinals performance).
