WELCOME!

Philadelphia Dance Theatre is the region's premier classical ballet school and performing company. Under the direction of Joy Delaney Capponi the school provides exceptional dance training for beginner through pre-professional students. Alumni have gone on to study with internationally recognized schools. PDT'S performing company presents an acclaimed Nutcracker each December and a new works each spring.

PDT's commitment to excellence:

• Quality training in an inspiring environment
• A dedicated professional staff
• A unique artistic experience open to dancers of all ages!
  
  

Why should I choose Philadelphia Dance Theatre for my child?

Outstanding Philosophy:

Our program is designed to treasure the process of learning. Some programs offer a “fun and no stress approach,” other programs offer “training for the serious dancer.” PDT’s philosophy is that learning is pleasurable, whether there is a desire to dance professionally or for recreation. The exposure to the arts and discipline that dance instills is an invaluable asset for all. It is through a consistent approach to mastering technique that the young dancer will obtain the tools necessary to reveal their individual artistry.

Outstanding Instructors:

All instructors are qualified adults. Some schools use students to teach younger children in an effort to cut costs. It is imperative that all the instructors are qualified adults and are able to attend to the individual developmental needs of the growing dancer. At PDT all of our instructors have professional experience, some are still currently performing and many have college degrees or supplemental education in dance and education. Our school promotes a positive environment with a dedicated interest to the needs of young children, while instilling in older students a sense of responsibility to mentor to the developing younger performers. Whether the dancer desires a professional career that requires steady attention or a recreational activity that is constructive and engaging, PDT can meet the individual dancer’s need.

Outstanding Facilities:

Hardwood floors with a special surface to absorb the shock of jumping and a non-slippage surface designed especially for pointe work.

Three spacious, light filled studios.

A waiting room with one way viewing windows, where parents may observe without disrupting the class or distracting their child.

A convenient location in Mt. Airy that is accessible to public transportation within walking distance to train and bus stops and plenty of off-street parking.

No Expensive Recitals:

Philadelphia Dance Theatre uses class time for learning technique, not a dance number. Rehearsing a dance number in class for a recital or competition takes time away from learning the syllabus designed for the class level. There is an extensive syllabus for class whether it is Ballet, Jazz or Modern.

Twice yearly we host an Observation Week where classes are open for family to come into the studio to observe your child’s progress. If a dancer would like the opportunity to perform they may audition for Philadelphia Dance Theatre to participate in the Nutcracker (ages 7 and up) or the Spring Concert (ages 3 and up.) Rehearsal times are outside of class for these performing opportunities.

Opportunities for Growth:

In addition to membership with Regional Dance America Northeast, Philadelphia Dance Theatre offers a “Dance with the Masters” each year bringing in high profiled artists and master instructors to teach class in the upper levels. It is an exciting opportunity for aspiring young dancers to have the opportunity to work with notable artists at home in the comfort of their own studio.

Dancers who are committed to dancing professionally may have the opportunity to compete in Youth America Grand Prix where students from PDT have qualified to compete in the international finals held in New York City.

Whatever our students aspirations may be, PDT is committed to meeting their individual needs. Whether the need may be a letter of recommendation for college applications, video compilations of their past performances or choreography for upcoming auditions, it is the staff’s endeavors to support each student’s objective to be prepared for the next step in their development.