JUCO (Junior Company)
JUCO (Junior Company) is a company program for HDA dancers in Levels 1–5 who are seeking a comprehensive company experience with an emphasis on ballet, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary dance, while maintaining a lower overall commitment than HBT or HDP.
JUCO provides a strong foundation for young dancers who may ultimately wish to pursue the HBT pathway, particularly those interested in advanced classical ballet and contemporary training. It is also an excellent option for Academy Division dancers who are still exploring their individual strengths and interests, as well as dancers who want the experience, discipline, and performance opportunities of a company program without the higher class and competition commitment levels of HBT or HDP.
2026-2027 Season
The Nutcracker November 20th, 21st & 22nd
Coppelia March 6th & 7th
Bloom Dance Competition March 19th-21st
World Class Talent Experience April 16th-18th
Starz May 7th-9th
Spring Dance Concert (Recital) June 5th & 6th
JUCO Rehearsal & Competition Requirements
JUCO is divided into two required company groups, both of which rehearse on Mondays:
Level 1: One required jazz large group
Levels 2–5: One required ballet large group
Additional performance and competition opportunities may be offered throughout the season. At the discretion of the JUCO Director, dancers may be selected for solos, duets, trios, and small groups in a variety of styles, including ballet, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary. Selection for these additional opportunities is based on the individual dancer and the needs of each piece.
JUCO dancers compete at two required competitions: World Class Talent and Starz. An additional competition, Bloom, may be offered as an optional opportunity for select soloists.
JUCO dancers are also required to perform in The Nutcracker, HDA's annual holiday production, as well as the Spring Dance Concert. JUCO dancers also participate in HDA's full-length production presented every other March when applicable.
Because JUCO is a year-long company commitment, all company members are required to maintain enrollment at Hinsdale Dance Academy for the entire school year. Consistent participation in company rehearsals, performances, competitions, and regular Academy training is an essential component of the JUCO experience.
Weekly Class Requirements By Level
Level 1
1 Ballet Class
1 Jazz Class
Level 2
2 Ballet Classes
1 Jazz or Contemporary (both are recommended)
Stretch/Strengthen *recommended
Level 3
2 Ballet Classes
Pre-Pointe
Contemporary
Stretch/Strengthen *recommended
Level 4
3 Ballet Classes
1 Pointe Class (2 recommended)
Contemporary
Stretch/Strengthen *recommended
Level 5
3 Ballet Classes
2 Pointe Classes
Contemporary
Stretch/Strengthen *recommended
This is a simplified snapshot of JUCO, for more information on Junior Company, or to schedule a private audition, please email Takara@hinsdaledanceacademy.com
Auditions
All dancers must audition for company every year, this allows us to see current members next to prospective members and choose solos, duets, trios, small groups, etc. for the following year.
Fee: $20.00 per dancer (cash, check, or charge)
Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your audition time to fill out the form and warm-up.
Location: Hinsdale Dance Academy- Studio C
Please note, it is our goal to provide as many opportunities as possible, however, if we do not feel like your dancer is ready for a company experience, they may not be accepted. In these instances, we will communicate what your dancer needs to do to prepare for these opportunities in the future.
Saturday, June 12th, 2027
JUCO (Ages 7 by 9/1/2027 and current Level 1 dancers)
Attire: Leotard of your choice, pink tights, jazz shoes, hair in a bun.
1:00-2:00pm
JUCO (current Level 2 and up dancers)
Attire: Leotard of your choice, pink tights, jazz shoes, hair in a bun.
2:00-3:00pm
