Launch Your Dance Career: An Overview of Broadway Dance Center's Professional Semester

Broadway Dance Center (BDC), a renowned drop-in dance studio and educational institution in the heart of New York City's Theater District, Times Square, offers a transformative Professional Semester program designed for advanced dancers. Founded in 1984, BDC was one of the first "drop-in" dance training schools in the world, offering classes in jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, hip hop, and theater - all under one roof. The Professional Semester is a unique program that offers technical training, as well as professional skills and powerful networking and performance opportunities.

What is the Professional Semester?

BDC’s Professional Semester is ideal for advanced dancers ready to launch their professional careers. This 4-month intensive full-time program is designed to give you the skills and connections you need to establish yourself as a working dancer. If you’re coming from a university or high school dance program, or are pre-professional looking for further momentum to establish connections in the dance industry, BDC will provide you with the practical knowledge and experience needed for a successful career in dance.

The Professional Semester is a four-month program designed for experienced dancers who are age 18-27. This full-time intensive program aims to bridge the gap between talent and professional readiness. “The number one thing we are looking for is the right talent level and maturity level,” says April Cook, BDC faculty and director of public relations. “We are trying to bridge that gap. We find that a lot of people have the talent, but they are not as aware of how to be their own brand and how to represent themselves." Most programs focus solely on the technique, artistry and craft of dance.

Curriculum and Training

In addition to your scheduled weekly classes with our Faculty you’ll attend industry seminars, networking opportunities, private curated classes in a variety of genres, mock auditions that provide real-world experience, and a final industry showcase. This program will give you the confidence to take that next step in your career.

Some elements of this full-time intensive program include:

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Ages 18+
Fall and spring semesters
Welcome orientation and placement class
Daily closed classes from 11am-2pm (Mon-Fri); 40+ closed classes offered throughout the duration of the program
Throughout the program, students will complement their training with additional drop-in classes from our schedule of over 250 classes per week
Industry Showcase auditions and rehearsals
Resident Faculty advisor
Weekly seminars addressing various aspects of the industry
Private curated classes and mock auditions
Networking opportunities with dance agencies, casting agents, and BDC Faculty and guests
End-of-program industry showcase at a New York City theater

The BDC Experience

The BDC Professional Semester provides an immersive experience in the New York City dance scene. Students have the opportunity to train with renowned faculty, network with industry professionals, and perform in a culminating showcase.

One participant shared their experience: "I have been in this program for one week, and I already feel a profound change in myself that I expect to last for the entirety of my dance career and my life… I have felt a transformation in my mind, body, and spirit in just one short week and there is more growing and evolving to come."

Auditioning and Preparation

For those interested in the audition, Cooney gives some great advice. “First of all, just be happy to be there! We know you’re nervous, but those dancers who can still enjoy the experience are the ones who really draw us in. Second, dress for success. Make sure you look your best and that you’re presenting the most professional version of yourself. Finally, have confidence. You’ve worked hard to get where you are; be proud of that. Shine the strengths you have. Expect a multi-disciplinary audition including ballet and jazz/theater. The NYC audition will include hip-hop and tap. There’s no need to prepare a solo as all audition material will be taught on-site.

Life in NYC

Participants in the Professional Semester often find themselves immersed in the vibrant culture of New York City. The city's energy and constant activity can be both exhilarating and exhausting. As one student noted, "Moving to NYC was such a culture shock for a girl from a small, farm town. The expression, 'time flies' or, 'the New York minute' really is true here. There is so much to do and see, and everyone in New York is always on the go."

Balancing dance training with sightseeing and leisure activities is essential for maintaining well-being during the program. "I’m trying to balance my dance training with sightseeing and leisurely activities to keep myself sane. After all, not everyone gets to live in this city and experience everything it has to offer."

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Key Tips for Success

The program emphasizes not only technical skills but also professional conduct and mindset. Participants are taught essential tips for success in the dance industry and in life:

Always have a pen.
On time is late; be early for everything.
View everything academically.

These tips underscore the importance of preparedness, professionalism, and resilience in a competitive field.

Financial Information and Scholarships

International Students applying from outside the US, please prepare the following requirements:

Valid Passport
Bank Statement showing $8000 USD ($2000 USD per month of program)

The US government requires proof that students can financially support themselves during the length of their program - The M1 visa is a non-working student visa. This amount does not need to be paid, but presented with a clear date, title and funds available. This can be presented in any currency, equivalent to USD amount. Once you are accepted into the program, a deposit of $2,875 (half tuition) is due within 30 days of acceptance to secure your spot. A student wishing to withdraw from the program early must notify Broadway Dance Center in writing. There are no refunds once you have begun the program, and no refunds will be given for any absences not made up during your period of study. No. You must acquire an M1 student visa.

BDC also offers scholarship opportunities to make the program more accessible:

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Stephanie Bissonnette Legacy Scholarship: A FULL Professional Semester scholarship awarded to one recipient each year.
BDC Scholarship Fund: Scholarships for people of color.

Interested applicants should indicate their interest in scholarship consideration on their application form.

Additional Programs at BDC

In addition to the Professional Semester, Broadway Dance Center offers a range of programs to cater to dancers of all levels and interests:

Drop-In Classes: BDC provides over 350 weekly drop-in classes for all levels and styles of dance. Drop-in classes are for dancers 13 and up.
Independent Training Program (ITP): A customizable program for students of all levels. The Independent Training program is open to dancers of all levels, to hone in on their training while maintaining a flexible work-life balance.
Summer Training Program: Provides a nurturing atmosphere of concentrated study for advanced dancers ages 18+.
BDC's ARC Program: BDC's ARC Program is ideal for dancers looking to develop and deepen their craft as a artist while immersing themselves in the creative process.
Register your group of 10+ dancers: Register your group of 10+ dancers for discounted drop-in classes, or book private group lessons with a BDC Faculty member! Choose from 75+ In-Person Classes, plus a variety of Livestream classes every day of the week.

A Legacy of Dance Education

Broadway Dance Center has a rich history rooted in the passion of its founder, Richard Ellner. In the early 1980s, Ellner, a business executive with a love for Broadway musicals, took his first tap class at 52 years of age. He was a great fan of Broadway musicals, such as Dancin', Sophisticated Ladies, The Tap Dance Kid, and Cats. Ellner's desire to expand his training led him to the legendary jazz teacher Frank Hatchett at Hines-Hatchett.

In 1984, Ellner assumed ownership of Hines-Hatchett, renamed it Broadway Dance Center, and set off to create a studio that would provide a new home for teachers and dancers. Each instructor was encouraged to contribute his or her personal style and expertise. In the early years, renowned teachers joined BDC's Faculty and solidified the studio's standing in the dance community. A strong word-of-mouth brought students from around the globe.

Over the next fifteen years, the studio grew from a one-story building to three stories of creative and business space, and flourished under Ellner's leadership. After facing relocation challenges, BDC rebuilt its current state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Times Square, continuing its legacy of dance education and professional development.

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