PROGRAMS
Young Artists Academy
By audition · faculty placement
NAOD's highest level of training and artistic development, for dancers seeking a focused, intentional dance education.
ABOUT THIS PROGRAM
Two pathways, one standard
Within YAA, dancers follow a structured curriculum built around strong technical foundations, artistry, and discipline. Both pathways require audition and faculty placement — new for the 2026–2027 season, all YAA members attend a mandatory placement audition each spring.
YAA Training Program
For dancers seeking advanced technical training within the YAA curriculum, without the full performance and competition commitment of the Ensemble.
YAA Training Program
NAOD's pre-professional performance company. Ensemble dancers serve as ambassadors of Norma's Academy of Dance both on stage and in the community.
Class structure
Pre-Academy (6–8)
3-class requirement: Ballet, Tap, Jazz.
Stellar / Elite (12+)
5-class requirement: 2 Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Horton/Contemporary. Electives by approval: Contemporary, Horton, Hip Hop, Acro, Ballet/Pointe.
2027 Auditions
May 15–16, 2027
Every dancer auditions annually to participate in YAA Ensemble — it keeps placement fair and reflects real growth, not just tenure.
Format
Ballet, jazz, contemporary, and improvisation combinations, evaluating technique, stage presence, and personality.
Bring
Solid-color leotard, tights, hair in a bun, shoes for each style, a 4x6 or 5x7 headshot, and a printed audition form.
Results
Emailed within one week. Makeup auditions may be available case-by-case through mid-July.
Is this program right for your dancer?
Strong existing technical foundation
Ready for a serious weekly training commitment
Willing to audition and train under faculty placement
Interested in pre-professional or intensive training
What to expect
All YAA dancers must attend the NAOD Elevate Summer Intensive in early June.
Outside intensives are encouraged for dancers ages 10+, but may not conflict with NAOD requirements.
Placement is determined through audition and faculty evaluation, not just age.
Frequently asked questions
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Annual placement auditions are held May 15–16, 2027 — sign-up includes a printed audition form to bring on the day.
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[Placeholder — pull from YAA-specific dress code once finalized.]
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Placement into either pathway is determined by faculty based on audition and fit, not by request alone.
Ready to get started?
Book your trial today and take the first step in your dancer's journey.