Aerial Dance Chicago’s Youth Dance Ensemble is focused on the development of aerial dance artistry within the spirit of community and ensemble.
ABOUT THE ENSEMBLE
The Youth Dance Ensemble was created by Artistic Director Chloe Jensen in 2002 to extend the vision that guides ADC's professional company and extend it to young artists. Comprised of dedicated dancers ages 10-18, YDE provides a nurturing and challenging atmosphere for students to rise to their fullest potential.
ADC’s Youth Dance Ensemble performing at Ruth Page Center for the Arts in downtown Chicago, April 2025
2025-2026 Season Details
REQUIRED 2025-2026 SEASOn COMMITMENT
Commitment Period: August 18, 2025 - April 25, 2026
YDE dancers must be present and on time to ALL classes, rehearsals and performances. No exceptions.
Bookmark ADC’s School Schedule page for term dates and studio closures.
REQUIRED PERFORMANCES
All performances are required. You must commit to all performances below to join YDE.
December 12-13, 2025: Winter Flight at Aerial Dance Chicago
March 6-7, 2026: Studio Concert at Aerial Dance Chicago
April 24, 2026: Youth Ensemble Showcase at Aerial Dance Chicago
If opportunities arise, additional events and performances may be added.
REQUIRED WEEKLY COMMITMENT
This program requires two weekly classes and two weekly rehearsals:
Two weekly rehearsals: Wednesdays AND Thursdays 5:30-6:50pm
One weekly Ballet Class at appropriate level:
Beginning Ballet: Saturdays 12:40-1:30pm OR
Intermediate/Advanced Ballet: Wednesdays 4:30-5:30pm
One weekly Aerial Fabric Class at appropriate level:
Advanced Aerial Fabric: Tuesdays 5:50-6:50pm OR
Pre-Professional Aerial Fabric: Thursdays 4:30-5:30pm
Kids Who Fly
Aerial Dance Chicago’s Youth Dance Ensemble is designed for young movers at the advanced level who are ready to commit to the development of their aerial dance artistry.
YDE Program Information
Attendance policy
Excellent attendance is mandatory for this program. No exceptions.
If you will not be able to attend all classes, rehearsals and performances with excellent consistency, please opt to join classes instead of the YDE program.
TUITION
The cost of the YDE program is $680 per 8-week term.
This covers tuition to all required classes as well as covers expenses related to rehearsals, costumes and performances.
FOR NEW APPLICANTS
Entrance into YDE is by invitation. Interested applicants should register and attend Ballet and Aerial Fabric classes to be considered for the Youth Ensemble.
Applicants must demonstrate excellent attendance in classes as well as continued growth in both Ballet and Aerial Fabric in order to be considered for YDE.
In most cases, applicants must have reached the Intermediate or Advanced level in Aerial Fabric to be considered for the ensemble.
Contact us for more information.
Optional RecommeNded extra TRAINING:
Additional ballet and aerial dance classes at ADC. Discounted rates available to YDE.
Additional dance classes such as contemporary, hip hop, jazz, ballet and other dance forms at other local dance studios. Ask ADC staff for recommendations.
Cross training to develop cardiovascular endurance (walking, running, endurance sports), and flexibility and other skills (yoga, acrobatics, gymnastics).
Youth Dance Ensemble performing at The Green at 320 in downtown Chicago, June 2024.
RETURNING DANCERS
To continue in the YDE program, read the season commitments thoroughly and double check your availability for all dates.
Once you confirm you can make the commitment, both dancer and parent must sign the contract below.
Mark your calendars with all required classes, rehearsals and performance dates.
Register each term before the registration deadlines.
Be on time to all YDE classes, rehearsals and performances and strive for excellent attendance.