Dance Masterclasses
Dance into the spotlight with Dance @ Detroit Opera! We’re bringing world-renowned dance artists from our stage into the studio to lead masterclasses for local dancers. These classes are a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge, sharpen your technique, and learn directly from dance professionals. Masterclasses are open to dancers who meet specified requirements and are free with a ticket purchase to that weekend’s performances (or $15 without a ticket purchase). Classes are held in the Margo V. Cohen Center for Dance in the Ford Center for Learning at the Detroit Opera House.
Pre-registration is required.
This year’s offerings are:
Ballet Masterclass with Daniel Ulbricht
October 18, 2025 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
This master class, designed for intermediate and advanced dancers, will focus on refining classical technique, elevating performance quality, and cultivating the discipline that defines great artistry. With direct coaching from Daniel Ulbricht, participants will gain valuable insight into the demands of the professional stage and the joy of expressive movement.
Ballet Masterclass with Dance Theatre of Harlem
November 15, 2025 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Experience the artistry, power, and grace of one of the world’s most celebrated dance companies. On November 15, 2026, the Detroit @ Detroit Opera welcomes dancers from the renowned Dance Theatre of Harlem for an exclusive Master Class in Ballet. Open to intermediate and advanced dancers, this inspiring workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from artists who embody the company’s legacy of excellence, innovation, and cultural pride.
Improvisation with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
January 24, 2026 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Level up your artistry with Improvisation with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, a one-day masterclass presented by Dance @ Detroit Opera and led by acclaimed company artist Jacqueline Burnett. Designed for intermediate to advanced dancers ages 12+, this 90-minute session blends guided exploration with dynamic phrase work to sharpen your musicality, courage, and clarity of choice. You’ll investigate tools for spontaneous composition, partnering awareness, and embodied storytelling—the same skills HSDC artists rely on to craft bold, living movement onstage. Whether you’re prepping for auditions, expanding your choreographic palette, or reigniting your creative spark, you’ll leave with fresh strategies you can apply immediately in class, rehearsal, and performance.
Modern Technique Masterclass with Paul Taylor Dance Company
April 11, 2026 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Discover the power, precision, and poetic athleticism of modern dance in a Modern Technique Masterclass with the Paul Taylor Dance Company, presented by Dance @ Detroit Opera. Join us for an exhilarating class led by a current company member of one of America’s most iconic modern dance ensembles. Dancers will experience the dynamic contrasts that define Taylor’s work: release and control, gravity and flight, stillness and momentum. Through rigorous phrasework and thoughtful coaching, you’ll refine your technique, deepen your musicality, and explore how intention transforms movement into meaning.
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