CityDance Conservatory
Pre-Professional training for ages 12+

Conservatory Classical Ballet Track

Overview

Advanced Training for Serious Students

Students train in Vaganova-based ballet and pointe, building a strong technical foundation through a structured and progressive approach. The curriculum is complemented by individual variations coaching, classical ensemble rehearsals, and pas de deux, alongside dedicated classes for boys and men. Additional training in character, conditioning, contemporary, and jazz ensures a well-rounded experience that supports both technical development and artistic growth.

Offered at our North Bethesda & Falls Church locations.

Photo credit: LK Studio

CityDance Conservatory Annual Concert

June 5 & 6 | 7:00pm

The Klein Theatre

Experience the Conservatory’s breadth, depth, and talent across two nights, as our students perform on Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre stage.

SUMMER

Summer Intensives

CityDance Summer Intensives offer a residency-style program for dancers (ages 9–19) seeking rigorous training and inspiring repertory experiences. Students will train under the guidance of renowned guest artists, professional companies, and our esteemed in-house faculty.

CityDance Awards
Photo credit: Sardana Photography
Dancer in red tutu dancing onstage
Photo credit: LK Studio

Competitions

Classical Ballet Track students may be invited to participate in select competitions, including Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP).

We believe competitions are an enriching extension of a dancer’s training—supporting growth, confidence, and performance experience—while consistent weekly training remains the foundation.

This year, we were honored to be recognized at the Youth America Grand Prix Semi-Finals in Washington, DC receiving the Outstanding School Award along with additional distinctions including invitations for seven dancers and three group works to compete at Finals. Visit our Awards & Accolades page for more details.

ON THE STAGE

Performance Opportunities

Conservatory training includes year-round performance opportunities, both through CityDance presentations and partnerships across the region and nationally. Classical Track students perform classical variations and ensemble works, re-staged by faculty, as well as original contemporary works.

2025 – 2026 Performances include:

  • Mary Day’s The Nutcracker (The Klein Theatre)
  • Conservatory Annual Concert (The Klein Theatre)
  • Summer Intensive Showcases (Strathmore)
Ballet dancers standing onstage
Photo credit: David Dowling
CityDance guest artists
Photo credit: David Dowling

connections with the professional community

Guest Artists & Companies

Weekly masterclasses, seasonal residencies and summer intensives connect Classical Track dancers directly with world-renowned guest artists and professional companies.

Within the past year, the Classical Track has been lucky to work with Alexei Moskalenko, Veronica Part, Xiomara Reyes, Rinat Imaev, Brooklyn Mack, and more.

BOYS PROGRAM

Boys / Male-Identifying

CityDance fosters a strong and supportive environment for boys and male-identifying dancers. Focused mentorship and training ensure healthy technical development and long-term growth.

Male dancer with right leg extended in air
Photo credit: David Nguyen
CityDance ballet college
Photo credit: JHsu Media

Student Support services

College & Career Preparation

CityDance Conservatory provides tailored guidance to help rising and graduating seniors launch their dance careers and prepare for college programs.

  • Professional readiness advising and career planning
  • College application guidance for dance programs
  • Résumé and headshot/photo support
  • Senior solo choreography & coaching
  • Internship opportunities in production, marketing, and administration

Recognized Excellence

Awards & Accolades

CityDance Conservatory Dancers have received outstanding awards and accolades over the past several years at Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP).

  • 2026 YAGP Hope Award (Olivia Liu)
  • 2026 YAGP Outstanding School Award
  • 2026 YAGP Outstanding Choreographer Award (Robert J. Priore)

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Success Beyond CityDance

CityDance Conservatory takes pride in preparing dancers not only for their next step — but for sustainable, long-term success in the field. Conservatory dancers step into the next stage of their careers and life as accomplished young artists.

PROFESSIONAL COMPANIES

Graduates have joined professional companies, trainee programs, and second companies, performing on stages throughout the U.S. and abroad.

UNIVERSITIES & DANCE PROGRAMS

Alumni have been accepted into leading BFA and BA programs nationwide, continuing their artistic and academic development at top institutions.

SUMMER INTENSIVES & SCHOLARSHIPS

Students consistently receive acceptances, scholarships, and merit-based offers from prestigious summer intensives and year-round training programs.

Connected across the DC-metro area

In the heart of our Nation’s Capital – Conservatory locations

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The Music Center at Strathmore

5301 Tuckerman Lane North Bethesda, MD 20852

301.581.5204

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Strathmore Square

(Ravel & Royale Apartments)
10511 Strathmore Hall St North Bethesda, MD 20852

240.242.3646

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CityDance at Falls Church

Ground floor of The Oak Apartments
255 West Falls Station Boulevard, Suite 160 Falls Church, Virginia 22043

703.634.5238

Conservatory Locations