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BRIDGE INTO THE INDUSTRY
​The Mather Dance Company Bridge Into the Industry Program is an immersive, 11-month training experience designed for dancers ages 17+ who have graduated high school and/or their formal dance programs and are ready to take the next step—but are still discovering their unique path in the industry.
This program provides elite training, real industry connections, and personalized guidance, helping dancers confidently transition from student to working professional artist.
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How Do I Apply?
Step 1
Complete the contact information form on our website.
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Step 2
Once contacted by the Director, submit:
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A solo video from your most recent competition season
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An in-studio solo or improv video (high quality), showcasing:
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Contemporary/Lyrical
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Hip Hop
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Tip: Wear form-fitting dancewear so we can clearly see movement, technique, and alignment.
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Step 3
Include a headshot (professional not required).
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Step 4
Tell us what makes you stand out:
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What makes you different from the dancer next to you?
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Why do you love the art of dance?
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What are your goals?
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How the Bridge Program Works
Accepted dancers train 14–16 hours per week, including:
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8–10 hours of Bridge-specific training
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Additional MDC Advanced-level (or higher) classes, scheduled nightly throughout the week
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Training Includes:
Ballet
Contemporary
Jazz
Hip Hop
Ballroom
Partnering
Technique
On-Camera Training
Body Conditioning
Social Media & Marketing
And more
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Final schedules are released mid-August | MDC class schedules are released in September
​Customized Training: After the first week of classes, Company Director Shannon Mather creates a personalized schedule for each dancer. Within the first two months, every Bridge member receives a private one-on-one meeting to ensure training is aligned with individual goals and needs.
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Industry Opportunities & Exposure
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Dancers may attend conventions, auditions, and LA classes outside the Bridge schedule
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Image consultations and headshot guidance available for unrepresented dancers
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Access to recommended photographers and agencies
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​Housing & Transportation
Housing and transportation are not provided
Housing assistance is available for dancers relocating from outside the area
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Ready to bridge the gap between training and the professional dance industry?
Your next chapter starts here.
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Who Is This Program For?
This program is ideal for dancers who:
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Are 17+ and graduated from high school and/or a dance program
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Want professional-level training without committing to one specific career path just yet
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Are passionate about growing technically, artistically, and professionally
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Are ready to explore what their future in the dance industry can look like
What You’ll Experience:
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A full season of professional-level training
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Refinement in multiple dance styles
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Personalized coaching and critiquing
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Direct exposure to top Los Angeles agents
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Mentorship from industry professionals, including Shannon Mather, Nicole Smith, and more
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Career guidance to help you identify your direction in the industry
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By the end of the program, dancers leave with the skills, confidence, and clarity needed to truly bridge into the professional dance world.
Program Dates
September 2026 – August 2027
(11-month program)
MDC Annual Show
Bridge members have the opportunity to perform in the MDC Annual Show (July)—often attended by guest agents from Los Angeles looking to sign dancers.
This is a powerful opportunity to be seen and perform live in front of industry decision-makers.​
Optional: Compete with Mather Dance Company
Bridge dancers may choose to audition privately to compete as a Senior member of Mather Dance Company.
Eligibility Requirements:
Must be 19 years or younger on January 1, 2027
Financial responsibility includes competition fees, costumes, and props
Auditions are scheduled through the Bridge Director with Company Director Shannon Mather.​​