Youth Opportunities
While our festival classes are open to ages 16+. we are also excited to offer additional opportunities for young artists to participate in WMDF 2025!
ELEVATE
Youth Dance Package
Ages 12-16
Saturday August 8th, 2026
Get a glimpse into the professional dance community in West Michigan through ELEVATE!
ELEVATE Youth Dance Package includes a masterclass with local dance company directors Kendra DeFazio and Lachan Niedbala, an experience of a tech rehearsal, and a ticket for the Main Stage dance concert! All events to take place at the Grand Rapids Civic Theater.
Cost: $50
ASPIRING ARTIST Scholarship
Ages 16-18
We are excited to invite dancers ages 16-18 to apply for our ASPIRING ARTIST Scholarship, featuring a free full weekend pass to the entirety of WMDF and Choreography Concert!
This scholarship is intended for the upper high school dancer looking to take the next steps in their dance career!
To apply, dancers must submit a minimum of 150 words answering this question: “How will attending the West Michigan Dance Festival positively impact my personal dance journey and local dance community?” to westmichigandancefestival@gmail.com by July 19th.
Please include dancer’s name and home studio in submission. One winner will be announced prior to the festival!
