Junior Performers "JPs"
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Program Overview

ImageThe Junior Performers of the WCDW companies are a junior level performing group that provide DMSODA students between the ages of 9 and 12 the opportunity to dance in a more professional atmosphere. Our goal is to provide advanced technique and choreography to students looking for additional performing experiences.

JP's are selected once a year by invitation only at the recommendation of a DMSODA instructor and the JP Director. Participation in the group lasts for one performance season, September to June, with an optional pre-season regiment during the summer months of July and August.  Click here to view a JP's photo gallery.

 
JP's Vision Statement
West Chester Dance Works' Junior Performers will embody a pure love for dance and dance production. Encompassing the epitome of technical competence and performance etiquette, we strive to be the future of West Chester Dance Works and set an example for other students at the Diane Matthews' School of Dance Arts.
 
JP's Mission Statement
To nuture and support students who have demonstrated a desire and commitment to expanding their knowledge of dance with opportunities that allow for active participation in both performance and production.
 
Rehearsal/Classes
Rehearsals for the JP's are held weekly on Tuesday evenings September through June, with additional rehearsals as needed for performances. Additionally, there is a required summer JP camp. This time will focus on the choreography, training and other production related topics such as performance etiquette and make-up. The goal is to provide the students with all of the necessary tools prior to performance, which enables them to take full advantage of their opportunities and become better performers.
 
Program Fees
There is a $40 monthly programming fee for DM Dance Machine membership. All checks should be made payable to West Chester Dance Works and are not considered tax deductible. This fee is due the first of every month. This fee assists in covering expenses related to costumes, rehearsals, performance fees, and travel. Donations from grants, individuals, and corporations contribute to cover the remaining expenses. These combined efforts enable West Chester Dance Works to continue serving the community.
 
Melissa Threadgill, Artistic Program Director Junior Performers

Melissa trained 14 years with the Diane Matthews School of Dance Arts studying ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and hip-hop.  Through training under the guidance of Ms. Diane, Melissa began to experience the joy of teaching dance at the studio.  She was also the Artistic Director of the Pioneer Dance Company of Conestoga High School.  Melissa continued her studies at Virginia Commonwealth University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.  While at VCU she expanded her training in improvisation, ballet, modern and contact improvisation.  She is currently a member of West Chester Dance Works Signature Company and has previously been a member of WCDW DM Dance Machine and Training Company.  West Chester Dance Works is pleased to announce Melissa as the new West Chester Dance Works Junior Performers' program director.

 
JP's Past Performances
  • Peter & The Wolf with the Kennett Symphony Orchestra
  • Youth Dance Festival
  • Cystic Fibrosis Walk
  • Old Fashioned Christmas
  • West Chester's May Day & Super Sunday
  • Chester county Hospital Fair
  • YMCA Winter Youth basketball Tournaments
  • WCDW Outrach Performances
 

West Chester
Dance Works

In residence at

The Diane Matthews School of Dance Arts
315 Westtown Road, Suite 9 
West Chester, PA  19382
610.692.3398 (phone)
610.692.6801 (fax)
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 West Chester Dance Works       |      315 Westtown Road, Suite 9       |       West Chester, PA  19382       |          610.692.3398

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