SEASON

2026 SEASON: June 29 - August 7

Young Dancemakers Company (YDC) is made possible through generous foundation funding, NYSCA, individual contributions and the Fieldston School. The company represents diverse backgrounds with one goal, to create and perform their own original work. Young Dancemakers Company is a completely free summer ensemble open to students in current grades 9-12, from public high schools throughout New York City, brought together by their love of dance and desire to create their own choreography and perform city-wide. YDC accepts a mix of experienced dance students, as well as highly motivated less experienced students with technical and creative potential and the desire to create original work. Students, male and female, are encouraged to apply through the recommendations of their city high school dance teachers, guidance counselors, or community center leaders.

Requirements: Students must be open to new ideas and ready to commit to rigorous intensive work. Acceptance is based on student potential for both artistic growth and development of skills, as well as demonstrated motivation and seriousness of purpose.

Information for Teachers

We are thrilled to announce the 31st season of Young Dancemakers Company, a prestigious, tuition-free summer dance program exclusively for NYC public high school students. This one-of-a-kind program offers students the chance to create their own original choreography and showcase their talent on professional stages across the city. We encourage you to spread the word as applications are now open.

Highlights of the Program:

• Pre-Season Concert Outing: An inspiring introduction to professional dance.

• Workshops with Guest Artists: Unique opportunities to learn from industry leaders.

• 2026 Repertory Project: Students will work with acclaimed choreographer Milton Myers, learn and perform an excerpt from his 1994 piece Seasonal Fire, taught by dancer/educator Charles Scheland.

• Artistic Collaborations: Engage with professional composers, costume and lighting designers.

• Performance Tour: Dance on stage in seven theaters across NYC.

• Special Field Trip: Visit the world-renowned Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival.

• Supportive Benefits:

  • Daily free lunch

  • Free MetroCards for travel

  • Performance stipend

  • All workshops, tickets, field trips, and costumes at no cost

Program Overview

• 2026 Summer Dates: June 29 – August 7

• Daily Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 5 PM

• Locations:

  • Pre-season concert outing in late June

  • Professional training at the Mark Morris Dance Center (Brooklyn)

  • Residency and rehearsals at the Fieldston School (Bronx)

Application and Acceptance Details

• Applications open on December 15th.

• Upon submitting an application, students will receive a link to join an Online Info Session for further details.

• Acceptances will be announced in two rounds: March 1 and April 1.