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.
Upcoming Masterclasses
Ballet Masterclass with Dance Theatre of Harlem
Experience the artistry, power, and grace of one of the world’s most celebrated dance companies. On November 15, 2026, the Detroit Opera House 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.
November 15, 2025 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Improvisation with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
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.
January 24, 2026 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Modern Technique Masterclass with Paul Taylor Dance Company
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.
April 11, 2026 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM
RELATED LINKS
Dance Theater of Harlem
November 15 & 16, 2025
A perennial favorite, Dance Theatre of Harlem returns to Detroit with an exciting program featuring iconic works of Robert Garland, Jodie Gates, and others!
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Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
January 24 & 25, 2026
For 47 years, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago has been one of the most original forces in contemporary dance – bringing top choreographers and works to Chicago and beyond. Detroit will be delighted with works from renowned choreographers including Bob Fosse.
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Paul Taylor Dance Company
April 11 & 12, 2026
Since its founding in 1954, the Paul Taylor Dance Company has been a groundbreaking force in American modern dance and has been described by The New York Times as “one of the most exciting, innovative and delightful dance companies in the entire world.”
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