Student Companies
Dance Connections Companies
A non-competitive, service-based ensemble for dancers ages 8-18. We combine the benefits and experiences of a dance company with community service, celebrating excellence, kindness, and joy.
What We Do
Non-Competitive, Service-Based Ensembles
Under the direction of Jen Aversa, Stephanie Karl, and Carly Faye, Dance Connections Companies comprise dancers ages 8-18. We offer the benefits and experiences of a dance company without competition.
In a world where everything is becoming highly competitive, we offer an alternative. Dancers can shine individually while working together, learning concert-style dance, encouraging others, and growing at their own pace while expressing themselves as artists.
Our Compass
Excellence, Kindness & Empathy, Service, and Joy
We believe dance can express ourselves and serve our community. Dance can bring joy and happiness to everyone and help make the world a better place.
Community Presence
Where Dance Connections Performs
We perform in theaters, gymnasiums, senior centers, nursing homes, schools, and community venues. While we love to dance in a theater, dance can be enjoyed anywhere and anytime. Our mission is making dance accessible to everyone.
Major Events
Baltimore Blast Pregame & Halftime Show
Disney World Main Street Parade
Harlem Globetrotters Halftime Performance
Concert Series
Columbia Orchestra Young Artist Concerts
Hershey Park Take the Stage
Towson University Basketball Halftime Show
Community Venues
Senior Living Communities (Brightview, Charlestown Village, Sunrise)
Nursing Homes & Community Centers
School Festivals & Carnivals
Mount Hebron Nursery School Fair
School Blacktop & Playground Performances
Church Halls & Gymnasiums
Impact & Service
Making a Difference Together
$50K+
Raised for Community
Through two benefit concerts every year
2
Annual Benefit Concerts
Supporting worthy organizations
365
Days of Service
Year-round community projects
Organizations We Support
Through our performances and fundraising initiatives, we've supported the Casey Cares Foundation, Called to Care for Orphans, BeMoreCaring, Cornerstone Community House, People Who Need People, Child Life at Johns Hopkins, Cool Kids Campaign, and many others.
Throughout the year, dancers participate in holiday donations, community lunches, and the Chocolate Heart Challenge—bringing joy and happiness to everyone while making the world a better place.
Foundation
Our Core Values
Dance Connections Companies are built on foundational values that guide everything we do.
Excellence
Pursuing high-quality training and performance standards
Kindness & Empathy
Creating a supportive, inclusive community where everyone belongs
Service
Using dance to help others and make a positive impact in our community
Joy
Celebrating the love of dance and the happiness it brings to all
Whether dancers are performing for applause or simply supporting their peers, it's all a big win when they're doing something they love while helping others at the same time.
Auditions
Join the Dance Connections Companies
Dance Company auditions are held every year in June. This is where dancers can shine, work together, encourage others, and grow at their own pace—all while being part of something bigger than themselves.
Experience dance as an art form, make meaningful friendships, serve your community, and be part of a tradition of excellence and kindness.
Dance as an Art Form & Community Service
If dancers are doing something they love while helping others at the same time, it's a big win!