California Dance Institute

In-school Program - The CDI program gives children a basic understanding of the fundamentals of movement, rhythm and music in structured, energetic dance classes with live musical accompaniment for 20-25 sessions in each school. Classes are taught during school hours, as part of the academic curriculum, ideally to all classes of one grade level (usually 4th grade). Each class is taught by a professional lead teacher, assistant teacher and musician, each of whom has been trained in National Dance Institutes methodology. CDI builds upon the school curriculum by collaborating with classroom teachers on skills-building, lesson topics and visual art projects. Schools also receive a staff development workshop for all their classroom teachers. Students perform in mid-point and culminating in-school performances for their friends, family and peers.

After-School Programs - Students from each school who exhibit particular enthusiasm and commitment are invited to attend the after-school SWAT (Super Wonderful Advanced Team) practices. SWAT dancers learn more advanced steps and choreography especially designed for their talent level. Advanced SWAT members may graduate to the after-school Celebration Teams. Advanced teams often perform in community events throughout the year.

Event of the Year Production - Each June, the school-wide Event of the Year production brings together SWAT and Celebration teams from all participating schools for elaborately staged performances in a professional theater with a live band, costumes and projected backdrops. The performances are held at the beautiful and historic Wilshire Ebell Theater in Mid-City Los Angeles, and feature over 250 children dancing for over 1500 audience members over three performances.

Volunteer Program CDI has a large and active cadre of volunteers: parents, school administrators and teachers, as well as CDI board members, participate in nearly every aspect of the program. Many contribute in-kind services in addition to hands-on project support. At schools where parent involvement was historically low, teachers and principals have found that CDI helps galvanize parents toward greater participation in their childrens education. In schools where parents speak little or no English, the dance program gives them a unique opportunity for involvement. The periodic demonstrations throughout the year afford parents an opportunity to experience what their children are learning and interact with their childrens school culture and curriculum in an entertaining and non-verbal way. To learn about volunteer opportunities, click here.

Residencies and Staff Development - CDI also conducts two week residencies and in-school professional development programs.

Expenses incurred for all programs.