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Katie Sopoci Drake and Zoica Tovar from the Washington School of Ballet break down their Junior and Senior Repertory Week programs in this episode.

The two programs serve different levels of dancers, and our guests explain how each one works and what participants can expect. They discuss the school's teaching methods, how they work with different learning styles, and what it takes to move from student training to professional dancing.

The conversation covers mentorship structures, choreography opportunities for participants, and performance requirements at each level. Katie and Zoica also share what traits they look for in successful dancers and how artistic director Edwaard Liang's involvement shapes the training experience.

If you're researching summer intensives or want to understand how pre-professional ballet training works, this episode provides a practical look at what happens during these programs and why the school structures them the way they do.

Learn more about The Washington School of Ballet's Summer Programs here: https://www.washingtonballet.org/nw-summer-intensives/

Takeaways:

• The Junior Repertory Experience is designed for aspiring dancers aged 12-17.
• The Senior Repertory Experience mirrors a company training week for dancers aged 15-22.
• Both programs culminate in a performance for family and friends.
• Edwaard Liang's involvement enhances the quality of training and choreography.
• Dancers learn to adapt quickly to different styles and choreographers.
• The programs focus on building stamina, artistry, and technical skills.
• Students are encouraged to ask questions about their future careers.
• Choreography and composition classes are integral to the training.
• The audition process is open to video submissions.
• The programs aim to develop well-rounded artists, not just professional dancers.

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