A performing arts school is a specialized educational institution where students study disciplines like dance, music, theater, and sometimes even film or visual arts, with the same level of seriousness and structure as traditional academic subjects.
These schools can range from high schools and colleges to private academies and conservatories. What sets them apart is the deep focus on creativity, expression, and artistic discipline.
For people who love dance, a performing arts school can feel like a second home. It’s a place where dance isn’t just a hobby or an extracurricular—it’s part of the curriculum, a core focus.
These students go there not only because they enjoy dance, but because they’re passionate enough to want to grow, refine, and explore the art form on a professional level.
The environment fosters ambition, but it also surrounds you with others who share that same intensity and love for movement and performance. That kind of atmosphere can be incredibly motivating.
Now, when it comes to the kinds of dance taught, performing arts schools usually offer a pretty rich variety. Classical ballet is often a cornerstone, especially at schools with a strong emphasis on technique and foundation.
Alongside ballet, modern and contemporary dance are usually major components, giving students the chance to explore expressive, grounded movement and new choreographic styles.
Jazz dance is another popular offering—it’s high-energy, rhythm-driven, and often overlaps with musical theater training.
Tap dance is also taught in many schools, especially those that value its rich history and rhythmic complexity. Hip-hop has become increasingly common, especially as dance programs work to stay current with urban and commercial trends.
Some schools delve into more culturally specific styles too—flamenco, African dance, Indian classical forms like Bharatanatyam, or Latin genres like salsa and samba. These classes not only teach steps but often bring in context, history, and musicality, which help shape more well-rounded dancers.
A good performing arts school won’t just focus on physical technique either. Dance history, choreography, anatomy, improvisation, and performance theory are often part of the broader curriculum.
The goal is to produce dancers who are not just technically skilled, but artistically aware, creatively curious, and mentally equipped to work in a professional setting—whether that’s on a concert stage, in commercial entertainment, or as a choreographer or educator.
People often go to these schools to build networks as well. Many teachers are working professionals or have deep industry connections. Students might get chances to perform in showcases, work with guest artists, or audition for real-world gigs while they’re still in school.
Ultimately, a performing arts school can be a launchpad—not just a place to train, but a space to dream, experiment, and begin shaping a life in the world of dance.
Even if a student plans to focus on just one kind of dance, like ballet or hip-hop, they’re almost always required to study multiple styles. There’s a good reason for that.
Learning a variety of dance forms builds versatility. In the dance world, especially in professional settings, being adaptable can make or break a career.
A ballerina who understands contemporary movement may move more freely and emotionally in her performances.
A hip-hop dancer who’s taken jazz or ballet might have stronger technique, posture, and body control. Even choreographers benefit from a wider vocabulary—they draw inspiration and structure from many different traditions.
Schools want students to be well-rounded artists. That’s why a contemporary-focused dancer might still take ballet every morning as part of their foundation training, or why a jazz dancer might be required to take modern and improvisation. It builds not only technical skill but also creative range.
Another reason is professional survival. Many dancers end up working across genres—whether in theater, TV, film, music videos, or live performance.
A Broadway dancer might be asked to do tap in one audition, ballet in the next, and Latin or swing in another. Performing arts schools prepare students for that reality.
That said, once students reach the higher levels or specialize in college, they often get to focus more deeply on a specific form of dance. But even then, their training remains rooted in a well-rounded base that includes exposure to various styles. It makes them stronger dancers, better collaborators, and often more employable.
While students may have a clear passion for one form, the expectation is that they immerse themselves in many. It’s not just about being good at one thing; it’s about becoming a complete, adaptable artist.
A student might arrive convinced they’re going to be a ballerina or a commercial hip-hop dancer, only to discover that their body, creativity, or even personality connects more deeply with something like modern dance, jazz, or improvisational movement.
Exposure is a powerful thing. Many young dancers haven’t had access to every style before attending a performing arts school. They might have spent years in a studio where ballet or jazz was the primary focus, and they never had the chance to explore, say, African dance, contemporary, or even something experimental.
Once they start learning different forms under skilled instructors, it often opens up entirely new ways of thinking about movement—and about themselves as artists.
Some students find they have a natural affinity for styles they never considered. For example:
A tightly trained ballet dancer might feel liberated and emotionally connected in modern or contemporary dance.
A street-style hip-hop dancer might find they have strong musicality and rhythm that shines in tap.
A jazz dancer might surprise themselves with how deeply they respond to cultural or narrative storytelling in Latin or world dance styles.
Instructors at performing arts schools often help guide this discovery. Because they see a wide range of students every day, they can spot where someone’s strengths really lie—even if the student hasn’t noticed it yet.
And sometimes, it’s less about technical skill and more about fit—how a dancer expresses themselves, where they seem most alive, or how well their personality translates into a style.
This doesn’t mean students have to give up what they came in loving. In fact, many become even better at their original focus after broadening their horizons. But sometimes, yes, students shift entirely—finding that what they thought was their path was only the beginning.
It’s one of the best parts of a performing arts education: the chance to discover not just dance styles, but new parts of yourself.
Most people who genuinely love dance want to attend a performing arts school because it offers something they can’t get anywhere else: an environment where dance is taken seriously, respected as an art and profession, and treated as a central part of daily life—not just a side activity.
Here’s why that’s such a big deal.
First, they want to grow. At a performing arts school, students train intensively under experienced instructors, often working professionals.
The classes are structured, challenging, and intentional. Instead of dancing a few hours a week, they might dance several hours every day. That level of training helps them improve dramatically—both in technique and artistry.
Second, they want to be around others who share their passion. There’s something powerful about being in a place where everyone is there for the same reason. It creates a deep sense of community, support, and inspiration. You’re constantly learning not just from teachers but from peers who are just as dedicated and driven.
Third, they want exposure to more than just one style. Many dancers come from studios that specialize in a handful of forms. A performing arts school introduces them to a much broader dance vocabulary—ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip-hop, cultural dance forms, choreography, improvisation, and more. That exposure helps them become more versatile, expressive, and professional-ready.
Fourth, they want a future in dance—whether that means performing, choreographing, teaching, or working behind the scenes. A performing arts school offers the kind of serious preparation and guidance that opens doors to dance companies, college programs, auditions, and careers in the arts. It also teaches students about discipline, time management, and how to take care of their bodies and minds as working dancers.
Finally, they go because dance is more than just movement—it’s a way of life for them. At a performing arts school, dance isn’t an afterthought. It’s integrated into their identity, their education, and their future. Being in that kind of immersive environment can be life-changing.
So, in short, most who love dance go to a performing arts school because they want to live and breathe their passion every day—and that kind of focused, creative space gives them the tools, inspiration, and foundation to turn their love of dance into something lasting.
The path after graduation can vary a lot depending on the dancer’s goals, talent, and the type of training they received, but there are some common directions people take.
Join a Professional Dance Company
This is a top goal for many. Dancers might audition for ballet companies, modern or contemporary dance companies, jazz ensembles, or even more experimental or culturally specific troupes. These dancers usually perform in theaters or on tours, either nationally or internationally.
Some examples:
Ballet companies like American Ballet Theatre or Houston Ballet
Modern dance companies like Alvin Ailey or Martha Graham
Contemporary troupes like Complexions or Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Work in Commercial Dance
Commercial dance includes all the dancing you see in music videos, concerts, commercials, theme parks, and television. It’s high-energy, often trendy, and usually requires a strong foundation in hip-hop, jazz, or funk styles. Think of backup dancers for pop stars, Super Bowl halftime shows, and Vegas productions.
Performers in this area might also work:
On cruise ships
At resorts or casinos
For touring productions or event-based performances
Broadway and Musical Theater
Dancers who also act or sing often pursue careers in musical theater. Performing arts school prepares them for this by offering dance styles like jazz, tap, and theater dance, along with stage presence training. Broadway, touring musicals, and regional theater productions are popular career targets.
Go to College or Conservatory
Some students continue their training at a college or university that offers a dance major. These programs may focus on technique, choreography, dance science, or dance education. Others go to conservatories with an even more intense artistic focus. These next steps can help dancers refine their craft and open up academic or professional doors.
Teach or Choreograph
Some graduates find they love teaching—whether that’s in dance studios, schools, community programs, or even starting their own businesses. Others become choreographers, creating pieces for local companies, competitions, schools, or professional productions. A background from a performing arts school gives them the training and credibility to lead others.
Freelance or Create Their Own Work
Freelancing is more common now than ever. A dancer might work gig-to-gig, performing with different choreographers, teaching workshops, creating YouTube or TikTok dance content, or collaborating on indie art projects. Some even start their own dance companies or creative collectives.
Related Careers in the Arts
Not everyone stays onstage forever. Some use their dance background to go into:
Physical therapy or dance medicine
Dance photography or videography
Costume or stage design
Arts administration or nonprofit work
Dance journalism or academic research
The skills dancers learn at performing arts schools—discipline, body awareness, creativity, collaboration, and resilience—translate into many fields, even beyond dance. While not every graduate ends up performing full-time, most find fulfilling ways to stay connected to the art they love, whether professionally or personally.
For many, the goal isn’t just “become famous.” It’s to build a meaningful life centered around movement, artistry, and expression—and performing arts school is the beginning of that journey.
Getting into a performing arts school can be challenging, especially the more competitive ones, but it really depends on the specific school and what level you’re applying to—middle school, high school, college, or a professional conservatory.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes it hard and why:
Auditions Are the Main Filter
Most performing arts schools require an audition for dance applicants. That means showing your technique, movement quality, and ability to learn choreography quickly. You’re often judged not just on how “good” you are, but on your potential, your attitude, and how well you take feedback.
Some schools might ask you to:
Perform a prepared solo (ballet, jazz, or modern)
Participate in a class-style audition to show how you move and pick up combinations
Demonstrate flexibility, strength, and musicality
Show improvisation or creativity
So it’s not easy. You have to prepare and be confident under pressure, often in front of multiple judges or faculty members.
Top-Tier Schools Are Highly Competitive
Well-known schools like Juilliard, NYU Tisch, Boston Conservatory, or Interlochen (for high school level) are extremely selective. They only accept a small number of dancers each year from an exceptionally large, global pool of applicants. These schools are looking for dancers with exceptional technique and artistry—even at a young age.
Some Schools Are More Accessible
Not every performing arts school is ultra-elite. Many public performing arts high schools, local magnet programs, or private academies offer great training and have a more accessible audition process. These still require preparation, but they often focus more on passion, dedication, and potential.
In other words, even if you don’t have years of formal training, a strong performance and a teachable spirit can still open doors.
Training, Not Perfection, is What They Look For
Especially at the high school level, schools know that students are still growing. So while competition can be stiff, the bar isn’t perfection—it’s promise. They want to see:
Solid fundamentals (if you’ve trained before)
An openness to learning
A natural sense of movement and rhythm
Energy and stage presence
A strong work ethic
Academic Requirements Also Matter (Sometimes)
For college-level performing arts schools, you often need to meet general academic admission requirements in addition to passing the audition. That means grades, test scores, recommendations, and essays could be part of the equation too.
Getting into a performing arts school is challenging, but not impossible. If you have a love for dance, prepare seriously for the audition, and show up with passion and commitment, many schools will notice. What makes it hard is that it’s not just about skill—it’s about heart, discipline, and the ability to grow into an artist.
And the beauty of dance is that not getting into one school doesn’t define your future. There are many paths to a life in dance—performing arts schools are one of the best, but they’re not the only route.
MOST PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS DO OFFER A LOT OF SHOWS FOR THE PUBLIC, AND THEY’RE OFTEN VERY REASONABLY PRICED OR EVEN FREE. THESE PERFORMANCES SERVE MULTIPLE PURPOSES, AND THEY’RE A BIG PART OF THE SCHOOL’S CULTURE AND MISSION.
WHY THEY DO IT:
Student Growth Through Performance
Live performance is essential to a dancer’s education. Students need real stage experience to grow—rehearsing, performing in front of an audience, dealing with nerves, adapting to lighting and costumes, and learning how to recover when something doesn’t go perfectly. Regular public performances give them that.
Community Engagement
Performing arts schools want the local community to feel connected to the arts. Affordable or free shows are a way to give back, share student talent, and promote a love of dance, theater, and music among people who might not normally attend professional productions.
Showcase the Program
These shows also highlight the quality of the school’s training. It’s a chance to let donors, families, and the general public see the hard work that goes into the program. And for the students, it’s a proud moment to perform what they’ve worked so hard on.
WHAT KIND OF PERFORMANCES CAN YOU EXPECT?
Seasonal concerts (winter, spring, end-of-year showcases)
Full dance productions (modern, jazz, ballet, or mixed programs)
Musical theater shows with lots of choreography
Student choreography nights where advanced students present their own original work
Cultural dance showcases or guest artist residencies open to the public
These are often held in the school’s own black box theater, auditorium, or nearby performing arts centers.
HOW AFFORDABLE ARE THEY?
Usually:
Tickets range from $5 to $15 for general admission
Discounts for students, seniors, or families are common
Some performances are completely free, especially in educational or community outreach contexts
Compared to big city dance performances or touring musicals, the cost is incredibly low—and the quality can still be impressive, especially at well-established schools.
In Short:
Yes—performing arts schools want the public to come, support, and enjoy what their students are creating. It’s one of the best-kept secrets in local entertainment. You can see passionate, high-quality dance and theater at a fraction of the cost, and support young artists in the process.
Going to a performing arts school can be a powerful, life-shaping experience—especially for those who are passionate about dance or the arts in general. But like anything intense and specialized, it comes with highs and lows.
HERE’S A CLEAR BREAKDOWN OF THE GOOD, BAD, AND UGLY SIDES OF ATTENDING A PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL, ESPECIALLY FROM A DANCER’S PERSPECTIVE:
THE GOOD
Immersive Training
You get daily, structured dance training from skilled instructors who live and breathe the art. It’s like turning your passion into your education—and for many, that’s a dream come true.
Creative Environment
You’re surrounded by other students who are just as passionate and expressive. That kind of environment is incredibly motivating and helps fuel growth.
Performance Opportunities
Frequent shows, recitals, and showcases give you real stage experience. Performing becomes second nature, which is essential if you plan to go pro.
Exposure to Different Styles
Even if you come in focused on one type of dance, you’ll likely leave with a much broader foundation. Most schools require students to study ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, and sometimes even world dance.
Personal Growth
These schools often foster resilience, self-discipline, emotional expression, and confidence—skills that serve students well in life, not just in dance.
Networking and Industry Access
Many performing arts schools have connections with choreographers, dance companies, and universities. You get early exposure to what it takes to make it in the field.
THE BAD
Intense Pressure
It’s a high-pressure environment. Constant auditions, evaluations, and peer comparisons can be mentally and emotionally taxing. Perfectionism and burnout are common challenges.
Limited Social Life
The schedule can be demanding, with long rehearsals, evening shows, and weekend commitments. That can mean less time for hanging out, relaxing, or exploring interests outside the arts.
Academic Balance Can Suffer
While many schools try to balance academics with the arts, the intense focus on performance can sometimes make academic rigor feel secondary—or overwhelming to juggle alongside training.
Physical Strain
Daily dance classes and rehearsals take a toll on the body. Injuries, fatigue, and chronic pain are real risks if students don’t learn proper technique, recovery, and self-care.
THE UGLY
Toxic Competition
In some schools, the atmosphere can become overly competitive or even cutthroat. Students may compare themselves constantly, and jealousy or insecurity can surface, especially in high-stakes programs.
Body Image Issues
Unfortunately, dance—especially ballet—still struggles with issues around body type. Some students face unhealthy expectations or subtle (and not-so-subtle) pressure to fit a certain physical mold, which can lead to eating disorders or low self-esteem if not handled sensitively by staff.
Burnout and Disillusionment
Not every student leaves wanting to pursue dance professionally. Some discover the industry isn’t what they expected, or the joy they once had in dance gets buried under constant performance demands, critiques, and expectations. For some, this realization hits hard.
Lack of “Normal” Teen Experience
Students often miss out on things like Friday night games, after-school clubs, or downtime because their schedule is filled with rehearsals, classes, and performances. For some, it feels like a fair trade. For others, it creates a sense of isolation from the wider world.
For those who genuinely love dance, performing arts school can be a launchpad into a deeply fulfilling life in the arts. It nurtures talent, shapes character, and builds confidence—but it also asks for a lot in return. Success there often depends on your ability to handle pressure, stay grounded, and take care of yourself mentally and physically.
If someone is passionate, resilient, and open to growth, the experience can be life-changing in the best way. But it’s important to go in with open eyes, realistic expectations, and a support system—because the journey, while rewarding, isn’t always easy.
THERE ARE A FEW MORE IMPORTANT THINGS ABOUT LEARNING DANCE AT PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS THAT ARE WORTH KNOWING, ESPECIALLY IF YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT THE FULL EXPERIENCE FROM THE INSIDE OUT.
You Learn to Be a Storyteller
Dance at a performing arts school isn’t just about steps and technique. It’s about telling stories with your body. Whether it’s a ballet with a narrative or an abstract modern piece, students are trained to express emotion, mood, and meaning through movement. That’s something that separates performers from just technically good dancers.
Improvisation and Creativity Are Often Required
Many schools teach improvisation as part of the curriculum. That might sound intimidating at first, but it trains dancers to think on their feet, express themselves freely, and trust their instincts. It also helps with choreography—many students are asked to create their own movement phrases or even full solos.
Dance History and Cultural Context Are Taught
You don’t just learn how to move—you also learn why certain dances developed and what they meant to the cultures that created them. This can deepen your appreciation and give your dancing more depth and respect for tradition, especially in styles like African, Latin, tap, or classical forms.
Anatomy and Injury Prevention Are Part of the Education
Many performing arts schools include coursework in dance anatomy, kinesiology, or conditioning. Students learn how muscles, joints, and movement patterns work—and how to protect themselves from injury. This is crucial for long-term dance health.
Critique Is a Constant—and a Skill to Learn
In dance school, getting feedback is constant, both from instructors and from peers. Students are taught how to accept critiques without taking it personally, and how to give constructive feedback to others. It’s a professional skill dancers carry into their careers.
You’ll Probably Be Filmed—Often
Performances and even some rehearsals are recorded for study, reflection, or college applications. Students get used to seeing themselves on screen and using it as a tool to improve rather than as a source of self-consciousness.
You’ll Be Taught Professionalism Early
Punctuality, appearance, attitude, preparation—these are all emphasized from day one. You learn to show up on time, in the right attire, warmed up, and ready to work. It’s treated as a job from the beginning, not just a class.
You Might Have Dance-Only Days or Weeks
Some schools will have “show weeks” or “intensives” where the regular academic schedule is altered, and dancers rehearse all day in preparation for a major performance. These are exhausting—but often unforgettable and growth-filled.
Costume, Makeup, and Stage Etiquette Are Part of the Learning
Students are taught how to handle quick changes, take care of costumes, apply performance makeup, and behave backstage. It may sound minor, but it’s all part of being stage-ready and professional.
Alumni Networks Can Be Powerful
Many performing arts schools maintain strong alumni networks, and staying in touch with fellow dancers and faculty can open doors later on—for jobs, auditions, teaching gigs, or collaborations. You never know who might help connect you to your next opportunity.
In the end, dance at a performing arts school is about more than just becoming a better dancer. It’s about becoming a stronger, more expressive, disciplined, and aware human being.
It shapes how you carry yourself, how you communicate without words, and how you understand art, people, and the body itself. That’s what makes it so much more than just “dance class.”
Attending a performing arts school for dance is a powerful experience that can shape not just your skillset, but your mindset, your values, and your entire view of what it means to be an artist.
It’s a place where movement becomes language, where discipline fuels creativity, and where students learn that dance is both an art and a way of life. The training is rigorous, the expectations are high, and the growth—if you’re open to it—is transformational.
For those who genuinely love dance, the challenges of long rehearsals, tough critiques, and demanding schedules are balanced by the joy of discovery, the thrill of performing, and the deep bonds formed with fellow artists.
Students don’t just learn how to dance—they learn how to collaborate, how to tell stories, how to push past their limits, and how to stand on a stage with confidence and purpose.
Whether a student pursues dance professionally or carries it with them as a lifelong passion, the experience of training in a performing arts school leaves a lasting mark. It fosters resilience, expression, and a deep connection to the beauty of human movement. For those called to it, the journey is more than worth it—it’s a path to becoming not just a better dancer, but a fuller, more grounded person.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOLS AND DANCE TRAINING, HERE ARE SOME RELIABLE AND HELPFUL PLACES TO EXPLORE:
- Official Websites of Performing Arts Schools
Checking the websites of well-known performing arts schools like Juilliard, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater School, Boston Conservatory, or local performing arts high schools can give you detailed info on programs, auditions, curriculum, and performances. - Dance Education Organizations
Organizations such as the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO) offer resources about dance education, training standards, and career advice. Their site often includes articles, webinars, and directories. - Books on Dance Education
Titles like “Dance Teaching Methods and Curriculum Design” by Gayle Kassing or “The Art of Teaching Dance” by Jane C. G. Watson provide in-depth perspectives on dance training and pedagogy. - YouTube Channels and Documentaries
Many performing arts schools and professional dancers share behind-the-scenes footage, training tips, and performances online. Documentaries like “First Position” or “Pina” offer insight into the life of serious dancers. - Local Dance Studios and Community Centers
Sometimes the best way to learn more is to visit or contact local schools or studios. They often offer open houses, workshops, or info sessions. - Dance Forums and Social Media Groups
Online communities—like dance-focused Reddit groups, Facebook pages, or Instagram accounts of dance schools and professionals—can provide real-world advice and personal experiences. - Performing Arts Magazines and Websites
Publications like Dance Magazine and websites such as Dance Spirit regularly publish articles about dance education, careers, and industry news.