DIW 2026/2027 Season Audition

Calling all dancers 8 and up! Interested in joining our year-round, pre-professional dance training program and/or being cast in our annual Spirit of Kwanzaa production? Join us on Saturday, August 15th for our DIW 2026/2027 Season Audition! 

Dancers in our pre-professional program train in ballet, modern, jazz, and cultural dance styles in a supportive environment that fosters excellence in technical skill, artistic expression, and self-discipline. We train artistic excellence at the highest level to build lifelong skills and confidence through compassion, empowerment, and academic and emotional support. Placement auditions are required for all dancers ages 8 and up.

The Spirit of Kwanzaa is DIW's most popular and longest-running cultural arts production (since 1995). The Spirit of Kwanzaa is a cultural arts celebration that focuses on the agricultural ceremonies of Africa. DIW has adapted the seven principles of Kwanzaa to convey the struggles and creativity of the Black diaspora through dance, song, live drumming, and spoken word. All dancers must register in advance and attend during their designated audition time. 

Audition Schedule (by Age Group)

• 10:00 - 11:00 AM: Ages 8 - 9

• 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Ages 10 - 12

• 1:30 - 3:30 PM: Ages 13 - 17

• 4:00 - 6:00 PM: Ages 18+

What to Expect

Dancers will participate in a structured class setting that includes technique, movement phrases, and more.

Important Notes

• Dancers must arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and warm-up

• Dancers arriving 15 minutes after the Audition start time will NOT be permitted to participate in the auditions and must register for the next audition date

• Proper dance attire is required

  • Femme-Identifying dancers: Leotard, skin toned tights, and ballet shoes

  • Masc-Identifying dancers: Form-fitting shirt, black tights, ballet shoes

  • Form-fitting clothing and socks are also acceptable

• Please bring a Water Bottle to stay hydrated

• Placement results will be shared within two weeks of the auditions

We look forward to welcoming dancers and kicking off an exciting 2026/2027 season!