
Steps Conservatory
Steps Conservatory Alumnae
The Steps Conservatory prepares intermediate and advanced dancers, ages 17-24, for careers in both concert and commercial dance. This intensive program is designed to elevate students’ technique and artistry through rigorous study and performance. It spans 2 years (4 consecutive semesters of 18 weeks each) and offers enrollment options starting in either Fall or Spring. Candidates should be at an intermediate or advanced level and have completed their high school education prior to the semester start. For dancers still in high school or under 17, please consider Steps Academy.
Every student is required to attend all scheduled classes to maximize their growth and development. Under the guidance of world-renowned masters and distinguished faculty, students at the Steps Conservatory engage in studio sessions Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 5 pm. They focus on honing technique, mastering repertoire, and preparing for upcoming performances. Additionally, during off-session periods, dancers have the opportunity to participate in classes offered through Steps on Broadway’s open program.
Upon successful completion of the program, graduates receive a Certificate of Completion, gain access to a robust network of professional contacts, and emerge as versatile, multi-disciplinary artists poised for success in the dance industry.
CURRENT & PAST CONSERVATORY FACULTY INCLUDES
Chelsea Ainsworth, Sophie Alpern, Al Blackstone, Kyle Branzel, Janis Brenner, Michelle Cave, Brandon Coleman, Devin Mae Conway, Carl Danielsen, Janete da Silva, Rachel Leigh Dolan, Celine Edmondson, Quaba Ernest, Kenna Morris Garcia, Marielis Garcia, Jack Gill, Christopher Cree Grant, Lauren Yalango Grant, Billy Griffin, Noriko Hara, Bill Hastings, Katie Homer, Casey Howes, Dava Huesca, Mindy Jackson, Angel Kaba, Bryan Knowlton, Robert La Fosse, Gabrielle Lamb, Heather Lang, Heidi Latsky, Terk Lewis, Camden Loeser, Kate Loh, JoLea Maffei, Sarah Meahl, Fredrick Earl Mosley, Paul Peglar, TaraMarie Perri, Khori Petinaud, Lizz Picini, Davis Robertson, Juan Rodriguez, Courtney Sauls, Tommy Scrivens, Bradley Shelver, Max Stone, Cori Jo Swanson, Chet Walker, Jake Warren, Jason Williams, Chaz Wolcott, Limón Dance Company, Gallim Company, Verdon Fosse Legacy, American Dance Machine for the 21st Century, Harkness Center for Dance Injuries: Injury Prevention & Nutrition seminars, “Business of Dance” workshop with Fran Kirmser (resumes, reels, marketing & self-promotion), Mental wellness with Wendy Reinert of “Being a Dancer,” private coaching and Q&A sessions with leading industry pros, mock auditions with a NYC talent casting agencies: Bloc, CESD, MSA, Wojcik, RWS Global, Royal Carribean, Lime Entertainment.
Important Dates
Spring 2025 Semester:
January 16-June 2, 2025
Fall 2025 Semester
August 18-January 15
Apply by April 1, 2025
Steps Beyond Foundation Choreography Lab:
May 4, 2025 at 8pm
Steps Studio Theater
Dance Studio Alliance:
May 10, 2025 at 8pm
KnJ Theater
Student Choreography Showcase:
June 1, 2025 at 7:30pm
Steps Studio Theater
Conservatory Spring Showcase:
June 2, 2025 at 7pm
Ailey Citigroup Theater
All dates subject to change
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Conservatory students have multiple opportunities to perform throughout each semester. Previous performance include: Steps Beyond Foundation Performance Labs, End of Semester Showcases, Student Choreography Showcases, Steps in Concert; an evening to benefit the Carol Paumgarten Scholarship Fund, New York Jazz Choreography Project, NBC Red Nose Day, Dance Studio Alliance annual performances, Earl Mosley Diversity of Dance annual benefit concerts, Steps Academy Showcases, Children’s Museum of Manhattan, Steps Industry Showcases, Bryant Park Summer Series and more!
*Steps on Broadway is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant students. International students must be 18 years or older for consideration.
SAMPLE SCHEDULE

APPLICATION PROCESS & REQUIREMENTS
Whether you are auditioning onsite or through a video, a complete application must be submitted through the website, Acceptd.
Acceptd Application Instructions:
- Select Steps Conservatory under programs
- Choose either Domestic/International or either live/video audition
- If live through Steps onsite / zoom audition, a completed application must be submitted before the audition date. Use calendar to request audition date and must receive confirmation from Director. Please note: Class fee(s) must be paid in addition to the application fee. No live auditions available on Wednesdays, Fridays or the weekends.
- Requirements for video audition include:
- Technique section: Demonstrate plies, tendus, adagio, pirouettes, petit, and grand allegro on both sides.
- Artistry section: Solo in your preferred style; no more than 3 minutes
- Vocal video: 16-32 bars if applicable or “Happy Birthday” if you’re a beginner/have no experience singing
CLICK HERE opens a new window to submit the application form through Acceptd.
SCHOLARSHIP/FINANCIAL AID
Every application is considered for merit-based scholarships. There is no formal application to request. You will be notified if funding has been granted. If you feel that your financial circumstances warrant financial aid consideration, be sure to utilize this field within your application and request form from Program Director. All supporting documents must be submitted by a given deadline. Partial funds are limited, based on availability, and not guaranteed. No full scholarships are granted. Funds only apply toward tuition, not housing, living expenses, travel, or the like. Payment plans available through written request. Families can use 529 funds to pay tuition for this vocational training. Steps is a non-accredited institution and does not qualify for FAFSA funding.
ACCEPTANCE
Notification of acceptance, via Acceptd messaging portal, will occur as soon as possible after respective application deadline, or sooner if possible.
HEALTH INSURANCE
All students are expected to have health insurance for the duration of study. Enrolling in Steps’ group health plan is available for international students upon request.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Students must have a working knowledge of the English language as course work is taught in English. Proof of sufficient funding for school tuition and living expenses must be included in application. This documentation is for Steps and the embassy in which you will obtain your M-1 student visa.
All documents must be in English and proof of support shown in US dollars in the amount greater or equal to $27,000 per year:
- Official Bank Statement or Letter – on bank letterhead and includes balance equal to or in excess of the tuition and living expenses required.
- If funds are not in applicant’s name, an affidavit of support from the sponsor is required stating their ability and intention to provide support
- Official Proof of Income or Employment of Family Member – letter from a family member proving employment and ability to provide for full tuition and living expenses.
- Affidavit of Support or Official Award Letter – Sponsor or awarding institution must submit a letter naming the individual being sponsored, the amount and duration of support, and specify if the funds are renewable on an annual basis. If the award or sponsor is not covering the total cost of tuition, fees and living expenses, additional financial documentation must be included.
TUITION & PAYMENT
Upon acceptance, a nonrefundable deposit of $3,000 is required to secure your spot in the program. This amount will be deducted from your total fees and spread across the four semesters. Your acceptance letter will detail the deadlines for the remaining tuition balances. Payment plans are based on financial need on an individual basis and must be requested in writing.
Tuition: $14,750 per year ($29,500 total for 2 years)
Payment Schedule: Tuition typically paid in 5 installments given in official acceptance letters
Application Fee: $60.00 for domestic students / $250 for international students (M-1 includes visa paperwork)
*All rates are subject to change
METHODS OF PAYMENT
- Wire transfer directly to Steps on Broadway bank account
- Credit card
- Money orders in U.S. dollars made out to Steps Studio, Inc.
- NO CASH IS ACCEPTED
REFUNDS
Time | Up to 4 wks prior to program start or Immigration Denied | Less than 4 wks to Start | Within 30 Days of Start Date | After orientation (1st day) | Application Fees, Deposits, Missed Classes, Dismissal |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Refund | 90% | 40% | 40% | 0% | 0% |
*All rates are subject to change.
SCHOOL POLICIES
All students are required to maintain proper etiquette in the classroom and on the premises. Failure to do so will result in dismissal from the program.
FlySpace Physical Therapy – official physical therapy provider for Steps on Broadway Conservatory and International Independent Study Program
Melody Hrubes, MD, FACSM, Physiatry and Sports medicine – HSS, physician for Steps on Broadway Conservatory and International Independent Study Program
FAQ
Still have questions or are trying to determine if this is the correct program for you? Please speak to the Program Director and/or stop by and take a class at Steps on Broadway.
- What age and level do you accept into the program?
Students must be between 17-24 years of age (18-24 for international students) and have completed high school or its equivalent. The program is designed for intermediate and advanced level dancers. Younger dancers please visit the Steps Academy Pre-Professional Program. - What focuses does the program offer?
The program trains dancers across disciplines in all styles preparing them for the demands of a professional career. - Does the program provide housing?
Steps on Broadway is located in what we call an “Urban Campus” here in NYC. While Steps does not make any representations or warranties regarding any housing opportunities that may be presented, we can act as a helpful starting point to your search. Steps has negotiated special terms with Student Housing Works to offer discounted rates. Another option is The Dancers Dorm located in Times Square. Click here to visit our Housing Page. - As an international student, once accepted into the program, how do I get a visa?
Steps will provide a Form I-20 Certificate of Eligibility. This, along with other required documentation, must be taken to your local US Embassy to process your M-1 student visa. Full instructions are given in official acceptance letter. - How do I apply for a scholarship?
If a scholarship is not granted prior to starting the Conservatory, students may be reconsidered during their Conservatory tenure through periodic auditions and course evaluations. Factors such as attendance, technical improvement, and professional etiquette are all taken in account. Scholarship funding is limited and highly selective. - Can I audition while enrolled as a Conservatory student?
Students in their final semester are permitted to attend auditions that do not conflict with rehearsals and private classes and have obtained permission from the Program Director. Should a particular situation arise please speak with the Program Director. Please note: Graduates have gotten work on national tours and in contemporary companies through their work with teachers in the program more so than from open audition calls. - What happens if I don’t meet my requirements or follow school policies?
Your success is our top priority. Therefore, expectations are clear and transparent. If behavior warrants attention, disciplinary meetings with Program Director and faculty will take place. Should maintaining proper etiquette in the classroom and on the premises not take place, dismissal from the program will ultimately result. - What if I am sick or injured or have a reason for not taking class?
We understand that sometimes events beyond your control may affect your attendance. Please notify the Program Director if there is a personal situation making you unable to fulfill your program requirements. Communication is critical to working out a solution. If you are sick or injured, a completed Medical Excuse form along with a note from a qualified health professional (doctor, acupuncturist, physical therapist, etc.) is required.






















