Classes now on Saturdays starting September 12

〰️

Classes now on Saturdays starting September 12 〰️

NexGen/Youth Dance Project

Our Fall 2026 Classes

Creative Connections Project (ages 4-6)

Saturdays, 9:00 - 10:00 am 9/12/26 to 12/12/26
This program invites kids to explore through movement. Students learn basic dance techniques and participate in age-appropriate exploration of ballet and modern dance and their connection to music, storytelling, wellness, and positive self-image.

Young Movers Project (ages 7-9)

Saturdays, 10:00 - 11:30 am 9/12/26 to 12/12/26
This program expands students’ technical knowledge in ballet and modern dance. This program also begins to teach students the connection between mind and movement by exploring movement as a means of relieving stress and enhancing joy. The Young Movers also begin to focus on how to fuel their bodies in healthy ways and explore how they can move in unique ways.

Young Dancers Project (ages 10-12+)

Saturdays, 10:00 - 11:30 am 9/12/26 to 12/12/26
This program is a challenging expansion of students’ technical foundation and creativity. Students commit to extended hours of technique classes, wellness, nutrition, basic physiology, and creation through movement.

Jazz-Hip Hop Combo Class (ages 7-12+)

Saturdays, 11:30- 12:30 am 9/12/26 to 12/12/26
Add some fun and variety to your dancer’s training! This class combines Jazz and Hip Hop in one energetic class, giving dancers ages 7–12+ a chance to let loose while building technique, vocabulary, strength, and confidence. Dancers will develop musicality, movement quality, characterization, and stage presence while learning the fundamentals of two dynamic styles.

This class can be taken on its own, and is offered at a discounted rate when you also register for one of our Core Project classes.

About the Program

NexGen/Youth Dance Project is Threads’ comprehensive, holistic approach to dance instruction. The goal of NexGen/Youth Dance Project is to foster confidence, strength, technique, wellness, and creativity in a supportive, inclusive, and diverse environment that provides quality dance technique training while holistically supporting all participants.

NexGen/Youth Dance Project provides dance classes for kids ages 4-16. It comprises a series of programs tailored to meet the needs of students at various levels of development and interest. The programs are designed to teach students how movement can be healing and help students understand their bodies and how to nourish their bodies and minds for the rigors of dance and life.

NexGen/Youth Dance Project aims to develop and nurture the next generation of dance performers, creators, and supporters.

Why Choose NexGen/YDP?

Comprehensive Instruction: Our holistic approach ensures your child receives quality dance training while supporting their overall development.
Inclusive Environment: We celebrate diversity and create a space where all children feel welcomed and valued.
Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced instructors dedicated to fostering each child's unique potential.
Culminating Showcase: All sessions conclude with a final showing, where students can proudly share their progress and achievements with family and friends.

Give your child the gift of dance and watch them flourish in confidence, strength, and creativity. Secure their spot today and be part of a community that values growth, expression, and connection.

This program was made possible with funding from Hennepin County Youth Activities Grant and the administrative support of the City of Minneapolis Arts & Cultural Affairs Department.

More Than Just Dance Training

The NexGen/Youth Dance Project empowers young dancers through high-quality training and holistic support. This video features parent testimonials and a behind-the-scenes look at how the program builds confidence, creativity, and community in the studio and beyond.

A group of youth dancers with their two instructors.

Have more questions?

Please feel free to email Odessa, our Programs & Community Engagement Manager,
at orain@threadsdance.org.

FAQ

Students must wear black or purple leotards, flesh/pink transitional tights (with a hole in the bottom of the foot), and flesh/pink ballet shoes to class.
These can be reasonably purchased online at Discount Dance or another online store, as well as local stores such as Step n’ Stretch or Grand Jete.
The Nutrition aspect of our program will explore what a balanced meal looks, noting nutrient dense foods, keeping our bodies hydrated, and the importance of rest and recovery in young dancers. We will also learn different nutrition philosophies and how they work (i.e. veganism, vegetarianism, eating ‘gluten free,’ etc.) and discuss positive self talk and the importance of developing a positive body image.
Embodied movement exploration uses movement to alleviate tension and stress, emphasizing the connection between the mind-body. We will define emotions and explore how those emotions can be demonstrated and calmed using movement. Students will be journaling during these sessions as well.

This program was made possible with funding from the Hennepin County Youth Activities Grant and the administrative support of the City of Minneapolis Arts & Cultural Affairs Department.