TRAINEE PROGRAM

Trainee Program

A Company-Integrated Pre-Professional Program

TCB’s Trainee Program is a selective, year-round training and performance opportunity designed to bridge the gap between advanced study and professional employment.

Trainees are fully integrated into the daily life of Tampa City Ballet. Dancers take company class, rehearse alongside professional artists, and perform in a wide range of repertory spanning classical ballet, contemporary works, dance theater, and original creations developed in collaboration with internationally recognized choreographers and multimedia artists.

This immersive structure provides serious dancers with meaningful stage experience and direct exposure to the professional rehearsal process.


Performance & Professional Opportunities

Trainees:

  • Perform in outreach and community engagement events

  • Serve as understudies in company productions

  • Dance alongside professional company members

  • Rehearse classical, contemporary, dance theater, and original works

  • Gain direct visibility within the company structure

Select trainees may be invited to join Tampa City Ballet upon completion of the program.

Program Schedule

September 1, 2026 through June 21, 2027

Monday–Friday
10:00–11:30 AM – Ballet / Contemporary Company Class
12:15–3:00 PM – Rehearsal with Professional Company Dancers
4:45–6:15 PM – Ballet Class

Saturday
11:00 AM–12:30 PM – Ballet Technique
12:45–1:45 PM – Pointe / Variations

The program provides approximately 30+ hours per week of structured professional training and rehearsal.


Eligibility & Requirements

  • Dancers must be 16 years of age or older.

  • Trainees must provide their own medical insurance coverage.

  • Enrollment is limited to approximately 12 dancers to ensure meaningful integration and performance opportunities.

Auditions

To audition for TCB’s Trainee Program, we require:

  • One video (MP4 format or private YouTube or Vimeo link) that includes classical (can be a class or a classical variation) and a modern piece.

  • Headshot and resume stating your training experience.

  • Audition Fee: $35

Dancers may also audition via the Summer Intensive Program.