AN INNOVATIVE PROGRAM BRIDGING THE GAP TO YOUR PROFESSIONAL CAREER

PREPARATION

Professional Dancers require a variety of techniques and performance skills.

Whether your path takes you to the concert stage, the commercial world of film & television or back and forth, The Bridge focuses on a multifaceted curriculum to ensure graduates leave prepared for every audition or any job.

WELLNESS

Mental, Emotional, and Physical health are non-negotiables when building an enriching, exciting, sustainable career.

The Bridge integrates weekly classes like psychological skills, nutrition education, and purposeful emotional regulation and mindfulness techniques to support the dancer from the inside out throughout their career and life.

EXPLORATION

Professional dancers are creators, collaborators, and contributors.

They have an artistic voice and contribution within every cast, studio creation, and performance.

Through projects, creative residencies with professional dance artists, and studio classes, The Bridge dancers create every week to build their personal repertoire and artistic authenticity.

CONNECTION

A foundation of personal resilience and fundamental process of relationship building, the Bridge prioritizes each dancers’ connection to themselves, their peers, and the faculty of working professionals who are eager to help them achieve their dreams.

BUILD THE BRIDGE TO YOUR PROFESSIONAL PATH

THE DANCING

• Ballet

• Jazz

• Contemporary

• Musical Theatre

• Tap

• Improv / Contact Improv

• Hip Hop

• Ballroom

THE DIFFERENCE

• Acting

• Vocal training

• Psychological & Mindset Skills

• Neuromuscular Training

• Nutrition

• Yoga

• Meditation & Neurosculpting

• Anatomy & Injury Prevention

• Photo / Video shoot for your portfolio

• Career Guidance / Marketing YOU

• Composition / Creation

• One on one personal mentorship

• Performance Opportunities

FACULTY

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"The Bridge Movement has quite literally changed by daughter’s life. The program is so much more than just dance. It is equivalent to a top notch conservatory in the level of instruction and exposure to an ongoing advancement in curriculum. Besides building an intimate community of mature, focused pre-professional dancers and friends, the opportunity to connect with this world renowned faculty (who become mentors to each of these dancers) is networking that just can’t be found anywhere else. The difference in Chloe is dramatic and holistic. Her knowledge about the industry, dance styles, wellness, work ethic and confidence have all blossomed under the guidance of Stacey and her faculty’s genuine love and support of these dancers. She feels prepared with the insight, motivation and courage she will need as she pursues college and a career in dance. As a parent, my heart is filled with gratitude for Stacey’s passion, vision and selfless dedication to the well being of this next generation of dancers. This community will always be the the happy place of my daughter's training and The Bridge is the launch pad into her future."

- Melanie Jeffcoat

mom of Chloe Jeffcoat - Arts Umbrella professional training program

FAQs

read the answers to our most common questions below
or watch a recording of virtual open house for more in-depth information

How long is the program?

The Bridge runs over a nine month period split into two semesters. Program: September 2024 - May 2025 Holidays: Thanksgiving: November 20-22, 2024 Winter Break: December 7th, 2024 - January 14th, 2025 Spring Break: March 2025 (exact dates TBA) Weekly Schedule: Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm
Where does the Bridge take place?

The Bridge Movement is based in South Orange, New Jersey. This beautiful suburb is conveniently located 30 minutes outside of NYC with direct train access to the heart of the city. Classes take place at Class Act Performing Arts School- a short 5 minute walk from the South Orange train station. Class Act Performing Arts School 128 Irvington Ave South Orange, NJ 07079
Who is this program for?

All dancers must be at least 17 years or older and have completed High School. 20-25 artists will be accepted into The Bridge Movement Class of 2023-2024.
Is there housing?

While we have no official Bridge Movement residence, many of the Bridge students choose to live together in local apartments. In addition to putting you in touch with a local realtor who can assist in finding housing, we will connect members of the Class of 23-24 to facilitate potential roommates. Both South Orange and Maplewood, NJ are beautiful, safe and quaint communities in close proximity to our home, Class Act Performing Arts Studio. If dancers wish to reside in the excitement of New York City, the commute is extremely convenient by New Jersey transit and a five minute walk to the studio. Please reach out if you would like further guidance on housing possibilities.
What does local transportation look like?

Although local transportation is available by bus, we recommend having a car if possible for ease. We have found that even one car per household/apartment is very helpful for getting around locally as well as to classes at The Bridge.
Can I work for extra income while attending The Bridge?

We understand that attending The Bridge is a financial commitment and encourage dancers to work outside of classes. With classes finishing at 4pm weekly and weekends off, it allows for dancers to work to help bring in extra money. Many of our Bridge dancers teach dance, babysit or work in local businesses while attending the Bridge.
What happens if a professional opportunity arises?

Our mission at The Bridge is to prepare you for your professional dance career and understand that opportunities may arise for our talented dancers while in the program. We do allow you to miss classes to work professional dance jobs but ask that absences are limited and must be approved through a written absence request form. We know at the Bridge Movement what you put in is what you get out and want to foster commitment as a value as you move into the professional world.
What is the cost of this program?

We are working hard to make The Bridge Movement as affordable as possible, especially in comparison to a college dance program. We have a limited amount of need-based Financial Aid that may be available to subsidize the cost of the program on an individual-basis. We will require a non-refundable deposit of $500 in order to hold your spot in the program, this deposit is over and above the tuition totals below. We are offering three tuition payment options to accommodate all applicants: Option 1 - Full Program Tuition $16,000 paid in full by August 15th, 2024 Includes a $500 tuition reduction Option 2 - Two Tuition Installments $8150 paid in full by August 15th, 2024 $8150 paid in full by January 15th, 2025 Includes a $200 tuition reduction Option 3 - Four Tuition Installments $4125 paid in full by August 15th, 2024 $4125 paid in full by October 1st, 2024 $4125 paid in full by January 15th, 2025 $4125 paid in full by February 1st, 2025
How do I audition?

We have a three step audition process for The Bridge Movement that can be done through our online Audition Portal. Step 1: We require two short video submissions: • A dance video no longer than 3 minutes in the style of your choice. Be sure to show off both your technique and your artistry. • A personal introduction stating your name, your age and why you think the Bridge Movement is the right program for you. Step 2: If you make it to the second round of auditions, you will be invited to an interview with Stacey. We may also request additional dance footage. Step 3: If you are a good match for the Bridge Program at this time, you will receive a link to complete the registration process. We have one in-person audition opportunity at our Bridge Intensive February 4-5th, 2023. Students who attend the intensive will get a true feeling for all the program has to offer with classes from multiple faculty members and orientation seminars in our home studio in South Orange. Attendees will automatically bypass the first round of auditions and receive priority notification of acceptance.
What are some of the opportunities available after the Bridge?

Our mission at the Bridge Movement is to foster the next generation of empowered artists. Whether your time at the Bridge is preparing you to more mindfully further your education or go straight into your professional dance career, a deeper understanding of oneself as well as connection to industry professionals will open many doors. Many of our alumni have gone on to work in TV, Film, and Stage performance as well as teach and choreograph professionally. The Bridge is responding to where we see dance going, and as a collection of professionals currently in the industry we know what it takes to be successful. Bridge dancers graduate with not only an extensive physical and artistic toolkit but also the autonomy to craft a sustainable and fulfilling career in the arts.