The GFDC Competition Teams are unified under one name with three internal entities;
Ignite, Core & Elite Company Teams.
Each level is determined by skill assessment and scoring. Dancers are placed where they can grow best with clear class requirements for each tier and progression built into the structure. Placement into GFDC Ignite Company based on skill assessment and scoring.
IGNITE
(Novice)
Who It’s For:
Dancers who are new to competition or still developing the technique, commitment and confidence needed for more advanced levels.
Vibe:
Energetic, team-building, foundational. It’s about igniting the passion for dance and learning what it means to be part of the GFDC Company family.
Details:
- Dancers typically attend class 1-2 nights per week
- Focus is on core technique, musicality, and performance presence
- Perform at 2 regional competitions, 1 in house convention & 1 optional local convention
- Lighter time and financial commitment to make it accessible
- Perfect for dancers who love performing and want to grow at their own pace
- Solos/Duets/Trios MAY be offered based upon skill assessment and scoring
- Teams within Ignite are based on age
Why It’s Special:
This is where the spark starts. These dancers are valued, visible and encouraged. It’s not “less than”, it’s a space built for growth, confidence and connection.
Class Requirements:
- 1 Ballet Class
- Progressions/Leaps & Turns
- Acro
CORE
(Intermediate)
Who It’s For:
Dancers who have solid technical foundations and are ready to push harder, take on more responsibility and deepen their commitment to training and team goals. Placement into GFDC Core Company based on skill assessment and scoring.
Vibe:
Focused, motivated and team-driven. This is the core of the company, where dancers develop consistency, stamina and style.
Details:
- Dancers typically train 3-4 nights per weekMust meet technical and attendance benchmarks
- Perform at multiple regional competitions, 1 in house convention and 1-2 regional conventions
- May begin working with guest choreographers and specialty groups
- Strong emphasis on teamwork, accountability and growth mindset
- Solos/duets/trios offered based on skill assessment
- Teams within Core are based on age
Why It’s Special:
Core dancers are the glue of the company. They’re building real skill, experiencing leadership moments and preparing for Elite Company, if that’s their path.
Class Requirements:
- 2 ballet classes
- lyrical/contemporary
- Strength and stretch
- Leaps and turns
- Acro
- Elective class matching choreography, placement based on skill assessment and scoring
ELITE
(Advanced)
Who It’s For:
Highly dedicated, technically advanced dancers with a serious focus on pre-professional training, performance and leadership.
Vibe:
Driven, intense, elevated. This is where passion meets excellence and where dancers become leaders and role models.
Details:
- Dancers train 4 or more nights a week
- Participate in full regional and national competition circuits including multiple conventions (1 in house mandatory and 2 regional mandatory, others optional)
- Work with guest choreographers, especially routines and possible solo/duo/trio opportunities
- Must demonstrate consistent technique, effort and studio community
- Represent the studio in community performances, social media and team features
- Eligible to audition for small group choreography pieces they wish to be a part of
- Teams within Elite Company are age based
Why It’s Special:
These dancers set the tone. They are the most visible performers of GFDC and are expected to uphold the values of professionalism, positivity and perseverance.
Class Requirements:
- 2 Ballet Classes
- Jazz
- Progressions
- Strength and Stretch
- Leaps and Turns
- Lyrical
- Contemporary
- Elective Class matching choreography placement based on skill assessment and scoring
NEW TO GFDC?
Interested IN COMPETITION?