Featuring Ava, 2024 Summer Intensive Dancer & Clara in The Nutcracker
When Ava enrolled in San Jose Dance Theatre’s Summer Intensive, she was looking to strengthen her ballet technique and grow her confidence en pointe. Having started pointe later than many of her peers, she was determined to challenge herself—and SJDT gave her the opportunity to do exactly that.
“I wanted to improve my ballet technique and take on new challenges,” Ava said. “Especially with pointe, I knew I needed to build strength and stamina. The summer program really pushed me to grow.”
Through rigorous classes and supportive faculty, Ava’s training took a leap forward—literally and figuratively. New combinations, increased stamina, and the chance to step outside her comfort zone gave her the tools she needed to thrive.
“The combinations pushed me to not hold back,” she shared. “I started trying things I didn’t know I could do. That helped me feel more confident in my dancing.”
That confidence paid off in a big way. When casting for The Nutcracker rolled around, Ava landed the role she had dreamed of—Clara.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she said. “I felt so proud and grateful that SJDT trusted me with such a big role. It was a huge challenge, but I knew the training I had during the summer prepared me.”
Ava believes the judges saw her potential during the audition because of the growth she showed over the summer.
“The summer intensive helped me understand my own strengths and weaknesses,” she explained. “It made me feel more comfortable dancing in center and more confident overall.”
But what makes SJDT different? According to Ava, it’s not just the exceptional training—it’s the community.
“I felt welcomed right away. The students were friendly and the teachers really care. The small class sizes meant I got personal feedback, and that made a big difference.”
Ava’s ballet journey began unexpectedly. Originally a competitive dancer, she auditioned for The Nutcracker with a friend in 2021 and fell in love with ballet during that first experience at SJDT.
“That audition led to the most wonderful experience,” she said. “It completely changed my path.”
Her advice to other dancers considering the Summer Intensive?
“Do it! If you’re looking for growth or just want to try something new, SJDT’s Summer Intensive is amazing. The teachers challenge you but keep it fun, and the environment is so warm and supportive.”
Ready to grow as a dancer this summer?
Join dancers like Ava and discover the training, confidence, and community that makes San Jose Dance Theatre’s Summer Intensive a truly transformative experience.
Photo Credit- Diane Rose Photography
