Full-Time
Training & Mentorship
Carol Stream, IL
Fall 2025 - Spring 2026
In 2020, we launched our first and only year of full-time training—an intimate, high-level experience for a small group of teenage dancers. Those dancers have since gone on to join companies like Alvin Ailey, Complexions, and Ballets Jazz de Montréal.
Since then, we’ve served as a supplemental weekend program, offering top-tier training to serious dancers from across the country.
We’re proud to return to a full-time model in the Fall of 2025.
Our Full-Time Program will serve just 20 dancers based in the Chicagoland area. It’s a focused, goal-driven experience that aligns each dancer’s aspirations with a clear timeline and plan for growth.
Classes run Monday through Thursday from 5:00–9:00 PM, combining old-school fundamentals with modern, athletic teaching styles that push both technique and artistry.
Our faculty includes internationally renowned dancers-turned-educators who have walked the path—and know how to guide others to their fullest potential. For most of our students, that means having mentors who truly understand their biggest dreams and how to build the foundation to sustain them.
Dancers age 12+ may audition by video only.
There is no fee to apply.
To see if your dancer is a good fit, please submit our online application.
Faqs
The Full-Time Program is highly personalized for just 20 dancers age 12 and up. The faculty is top tier, from companies like Alvin Ailey, Joffrey Ballet, Hubbard Street, and Deeply Rooted. The curriculum prioritizes
training like an elite artist, to prepare young dancers for high level college opportunities and performing
careers.
Classes are held Monday-Thursday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM CST in Carol Stream, IL.
Classes are focused on preparing dancers to thrive at the collegiate and professional level, including:
- Ballet
- Graham Technique
- Horton Technique
- Jazz
- Contemporary
Additional Opportunities:
- Weekend training opportunities at The Shed throughout the school year. These select weekends allow students to work alongside our national student network, gaining valuable experience and exposure.
- Participation in competitions under the studio's name
- Mid-year evaluations open to families
- End-of-year showcase performance
Download the Full-Time Training Program Calendar (2025-2026)
Dancers train Monday through Thursday as part of the Full-Time Program. The curriculum is rooted in collegiate-level classical fundamentals like ballet, modern, and jazz. Upon graduation, Dancers that train with us should be prepared to thrive in a concert dance college program or company.
SAMPLE WEEKLY SCHEDULE
MONDAY
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ballet
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Modern/Contemporary
TUESDAY
5:00pm - 9:00pm
Technique
Fundamentals
& Choreography
WEDNESDAY
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ballet
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Modern/Contemporary
THURSDAY
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ballet
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Modern/Contemporary
Our training facility The Shed, is located in Carol Stream, IL. Our address is:
The Shed
458 Randy Rd.
Carol Stream, IL 60188
Yes! While we do prioritize training over competition, dancers who are interested in competing at conventions throughout the year will have the opportunity to compete under the TDA Prep studio name. However, dancers choosing to compete will be required to complete a set number of private lessons each month to refine and clean their solo, ensuring they are performance-ready at the highest level. There will be no group pieces in competition
by TDA Prep's First Class.
Yes! We do not believe in high level pointe for every dancer, so dancers that are interested/require Pointe will have the opportunity to test into that class at the beginning of the year.
To join the Full-Time program, dancers need to complete our online application, including a video audition submission.
Dancers will be accepted based on their age, skill level, and potential. Upon receiving your application, we may
reach out seeking more information. Upon acceptance, dancers will be invited to train at The Shed before enrolling full-time. For more information on the Full-Time Program, you can always email our School Administrator at: heath@tdaprep.com
The Full-Time Program tuition is:
- $1,550 per month = One dancer
- $2,500 per month = Two dancers
High School Seniors may combine the College Candidate Program & Full-Time Training Program.
The monthly tuition also includes access to our library of weekly virtual classes and exclusive Dance Parent Masterclass series.
The Full-Time Program is limited to just 20 dancers, ensuring a highly personalized and career-driven experience.
This exclusive structure allows for focused, high-level instruction, giving each dancer the individual attention and mentorship needed to grow, refine their artistry, and prepare for a professional dance career.
Yes, dancers will perform in our TDA Prep Showcase at the end of April.