It is important for all Company members, prospective members and their parents to understand what is involved in being a member of the Dance Company.

Participation in Company is a great deal of fun, but it requires a significant commitment to dance and a good deal of extra time and effort. Taking a dance class is the same as participating in any other extracurricular activity. Being a Company member is akin to being on a select sports team, and requires a sincere commitment to the team.

Both students and parents should decide if they have the time to commit to the Dance Company. No matter how talented a student is, if they don't have time to put dance first, and if they don't have enough parental support, they may be better in Studio dance classes.

All Company members must maintain regular attendance in all classes and are required to attend ballet classes a minimum of twice per week (three ballet classes for seniors).

Students who are in Company should be in class regularly throughout the summer -- especially in ballet.

If teachers decide that in any subject a student is not making the commitment required, changes can be made in the Fall prior to costumes being ordered.

Students and parents interested in Company participation must also recognize the expectations related to attitude. As members of our team, Company members and their parents are expected to support and encourage each other and to exhibit impeccable sportsmanship at all times. Our students -- without exception -- are expected to treat each other, their teachers, parents, competition judges and fellow students from other studios with the highest level of respect. Winning trophies is nice, but representing ourselves with class and dignity is an absolute requirement.

In addition, we expect participation from students and support from parents throughout the year at shows, workshops and competitions. It will be very important that all Company parents take the time to support the students and participate fully in the Dance Company Parents Association (DCPA), including regular attendance at monthly DCPA meetings. The DCPA is a non-profit group that supports our Dance Company and engages in fundraising activities to help offset a small portion of these expenses, but it should be clearly understood that a financial commitment accompanies Company membership. Parents of prospective members may contact the DCPA for an approximate breakdown of these costs.

Finally, parents of prospective members should recognize that participation in dance at this level involves additional financial commitments. Company members typically choose to attend more classes and perform more dances in our recital, which naturally results in more costume, shoe and accessory fees than studio dancers are not likely to encounter.

We have a wonderful Dance Company of dedicated and talented performers. It is an honor to be selected to be a part of this team. All students, parents and teachers should view it as such and commit to the team accordingly.