Dance Company at the YMCA

Dance Company at the YMCA focuses on dance and performing arts. The program is performance-based, with company members taking regular dance classes and participating in rehearsals and performances. It includes four company levels that combine technical training and artistic exploration in dance.

• Ages: 8–18 years old

The Y’s Dance Company is designed to inspire, challenge, and empower young dancers through technical training, artistic exploration, and meaningful community connection. Annual auditions are open to all students 8 years and older who are at level Beginner 2 and up, with four company levels: Pre-Company (ages 8–12), Junior Company (ages 10–14), Apprentice Company (ages 12–16), and Senior Company (ages 14–18). Weekly commitments vary by level: Pre-Company members attend 2 classes plus rehearsals, Junior Company members attend 3 classes plus rehearsals, and both Apprentice and Senior Company members attend 6 classes plus rehearsals. Company members are expected to attend regular classes, rehearsals, and performances, and dancers in the Senior Company serve as ambassadors and mentor younger members. Dancers share their love of movement with the community throughout the year and represent the YMCA and the broader community at events throughout the Pacific Northwest, celebrating dance as a universal language that brings people together. The program emphasizes that everyone is an artist and promotes caring, respect, responsibility, bravery, honesty, persistence, and having fun. The program is led by Arts Directors Michelle Wells and Kirsten Gilmore.

Last updated February 20, 2026.