At Danceworks, leadership is more than a concept—it’s a calling.
Rooted in our guiding vision, “Training dancers on the outside. Inspiring leaders on the inside,” we believe that every student has the potential to lead with purpose, passion, and integrity.
Leadership stands proudly among our five core values: Faith, Family, Community, Leadership, and Personal Excellence. It’s woven into the fabric of everything we do.
That’s why we offer a variety of meaningful opportunities for students to grow as leaders both in and out of the studio. From our Danceworks Student Assistant (DSA) and Junior DSA programs to our Internship program, performance companies, and National Honor Society for Dance Arts (NHSDA) chapter, students are encouraged to step up, shine, and make an impact.
Scroll to discover how you can lead with Danceworks!
Danceworks Student Assistant Programs
At Danceworks, we believe that leadership is nurtured through experience, guidance, and meaningful connections. That’s why we offer two unique opportunities for dancers who are ready to step into leadership roles within our studio: the Junior Danceworks Student Assistant (Jr. DSA) Program and the Danceworks Student Assistant (DSA) Program.
Junior Danceworks Student Assistant Program (Ages 12+)
The Jr. DSA Program is designed for dancers who are just beginning to explore leadership and mentorship. Perfect for dancers ages 12 and up, this program gives students the chance to:
Assist and demonstrate in at least one class per week, working alongside an experienced Danceworks teacher
Learn classroom management, stages of child development, and leadership skills through specialized training
Develop responsibility, confidence, and communication skills
Begin building a foundation for future roles as a DSA or Intern instructor
Eligibility Requirements:
Must be 12 years or older
Maintain regular attendance in their own Danceworks classes
Exhibit Danceworks Core Values: Faith, Family, Community, Personal Excellence, and Leadership
Danceworks Student Assistant Program (Invitation-Only, Typically Ages 14+)
The DSA Program is an invitation-only leadership role for dancers who have consistently demonstrated maturity, responsibility, and a passion for sharing dance with others. As a DSA, dancers gain valuable, real-world experience in the studio and classroom setting while continuing their own dance training.
Benefits of becoming a DSA:
Hands-on experience teaching dance and assisting younger students
Leadership development in a supportive, professional environment
Fulfill community service hours OR receive a tuition discount
Strengthen college applications and resumes with meaningful extracurricular experience
Connect more deeply with the Danceworks community and faculty
Required Leadership Training
Both Jr. DSAs and DSAs participate in a Leadership Training Camp each season, where they’ll receive essential guidance on:
Expectations and responsibilities
Classroom systems and processes
Child development stages
Best practices for leadership and communication
This training ensures that every assistant is equipped with the tools they need to thrive, whether they’re just starting out or returning for another season. Attendance at this training is required for all Jr. DSAs and DSAs, but there is no obligation to commit to serving after attending—it’s a valuable experience on its own!
Interested in Learning More?
Whether your dancer is ready to start their leadership journey or curious about what's involved, we’d love to chat with you.
Danceworks Intern Program
For Emerging Dance Leaders Ages 16+
The Danceworks Intern Program is our most advanced leadership opportunity, designed for dedicated dancers ages 16 and up who are ready to step confidently into a teaching role of their own—and get paid for it!
Interns at Danceworks go beyond assisting. They are entrusted with the responsibility of leading their own classes, guiding young dancers with care, and setting a positive example in the studio community. This program is ideal for mature, responsible students who are passionate about teaching, leadership, and making an impact—all while gaining valuable work experience and earning a paycheck.
What It Takes to Be a Danceworks Intern:
In addition to all of the expectations and core values upheld by our Danceworks Student Assistants (DSAs), Interns must demonstrate:
Strong leadership & communication skills
Exceptional reliability & time management
A genuine passion for working with children and fostering their growth
Confidence in classroom management and instructional skills
Creativity and initiative, especially when it comes to choreography and lesson planning
A positive role model attitude, both in and out of the studio
Intern Responsibilities:
Teach and manage a weekly dance class independently
Choreograph original pieces for both our annual Nutcracker Tea (if teaching ballet) and Spring Recital
Regularly attend staff meetings and planning sessions
Demonstrate consistent adherence to Danceworks' Core Values: Faith, Family, Community, Personal Excellence, and Leadership
Maintain regular attendance in their own classes to continue personal dance training
Receive paid compensation for their work as a valued part of our teaching team
Ready to Lead?
If you’re a dancer who’s eager to step into a meaningful, paid teaching role, grow as a leader, and make a lasting impact, the Danceworks Intern Program might be the perfect next step in your journey.
Performance CompanIES
Movers & Shakers Dance Company | Elevate Dance Company
Movers & Shakers Dance Company: Where Confidence, Connection & Leadership Thrive!
What is the Movers & Shakers Dance Company (MSDC)?
The Movers & Shakers Dance Company is a select group of dedicated Danceworks dancers who have a deep passion for dance, are motivated to work hard, and are committed to leadership and teamwork. If your dancer is eager for more time in the studio and loves new performance opportunities, this program is the perfect fit! MSDC members enjoy strong connections with fellow dancers through community service, performances, rehearsals, and fun activities beyond their weekly dance classes.
What does MSDC do beyond class?
Movers & Shakers perform at notable community events like the Waxahachie Christmas Parade, the annual Danceworks Nutcracker Tea, the Dancing With The Ellis County Stars performance (benefiting the Texas Baptist Home for Children), and our annual Spring recital. Company dancers also participate in the Motion Composers Intensive, where they train with master instructors from across the DFW area to sharpen their skills and deepen their love for dance. Additional performance opportunities may be added throughout the year.
Who are MSDC members?
Company members serve as positive representatives of Danceworks in all performances and public events, embodying the values of teamwork and leadership while working toward shared rehearsal and performance goals. Movers & Shakers is a program that builds dancers' skills on the outside and inspires leaders on the inside.
Company Details:
The Movers & Shakers Dance Company is open to dancers in Levels C and up, who are enrolled in Ballet and at least one additional technique class (Jazz or Contemporary). Admission is by audition each Fall.
Cost:
Contact the studio for current pricing.
Company Levels:
Senior Company: High school students, Levels 3-4
Junior Company: Levels 1-2
Petite Company: Level C
Ready to shake things up?
If you would like more information about MSDC or are interested in auditioning, please fill out this form by clicking the button below, and one of our team members will reach out.
Elevate Dance Company: Take Your Dance Journey to New Heights!
Elevate Dance Company is our advanced performance group for dancers in Levels C - 4 who are ready to take their dance journey to the next level. Designed for committed and passionate dancers, Elevate offers more performance opportunities, travel to dance conventions and workshops, and the chance to compete in one dance competition throughout the year. It’s a chance to grow as a dancer, connect with others, and experience the world of competitive dance—while maintaining a focus on balance, health, and personal growth.
Audition Requirements
To be eligible to audition for Elevate Dance Company, dancers must:
Be enrolled in Level C or higher
Be enrolled in ballet and at least one additional technique class (Jazz or Contemporary)
Attend an additional hour of rehearsal every week
Commit to participating in all performances, workshops, conventions, and competitions throughout the year
Take class during the summer of 2026 to ensure continued growth and training
Program Details
Cost: Contact the studio for current pricing.
Audition: The Elevate audition will be held at the same time as the Movers & Shakers Dance Company audition.
Dancers in Elevate can also participate in Movers & Shakers Dance Company, offering even more performance opportunities and flexibility in their training.
Why Join Elevate Dance Company?
Advanced Training: Elevate dancers will experience a more rigorous and challenging training environment, pushing them to refine their technique, performance skills, and artistry.
Performance & Competition: This company offers increased performance opportunities and the exciting chance to travel to workshops, conventions, and participate in a dance competition—all while staying true to our studio’s mission of creating a supportive, positive atmosphere.
Personal Growth: Elevate dancers are encouraged to grow not only as performers but as individuals, learning discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
Healthy Balance: We believe in maintaining a healthy approach to competition, with an emphasis on personal well-being, creativity, and joy in the process of learning and performing.
Ready to elevate your dance journey?
Join us and be part of a company that challenges you, supports your growth, and celebrates every step along the way. If you would like more information about Elevate Dance Company or are interested in auditioning, please fill out this form, and one of our team members will reach out.