The North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble's mission is to preserve and promote percussive dance forms.
What is NCYTE?
The North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble is repertory tap dance company comprised of a group of young dancers who are between the ages of 8-18. Founded by Gene Medler and led by Artistic Director Emily Shoemaker, the company has performed all over the world. In 2016-2017, the dancers performed in Chicago, West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida!
What is expected of NCYTE dancers?
The company is built around a repertoire of dances that begin with classic dances and evolves into advanced, cutting edge choreography. Dancers grow in skill and experience as they move through the company, which requires patience, hard work, and dedication. As a dancer-led company, older dancers are expected to teach and guide younger dancers, and younger dancers are expected to seek out support and help from the older dancers. Together the group works to support and encourage each other’s growth as dancers.
How often do you rehearse?
Company rehearsal is every Saturday from 1-4, with additional rehearsals held as needed. Dancers are also expected to put in additional hours outside of rehearsal learning dances and polishing choreography.
How can I join?
2024-2025 Season auditions are being held at the Ballet School of Chapel Hill on August 24, 2024. Dancers ages 8-18 are welcome to attend auditions for the upcoming season. Register and learn more below.
2024/25 Season Audition Information:
August 24th, 2024: 1-2pm: 8-12 year old dancers. 2-3pm: 13-18 year old dancer
At the Ballet School of Chapel Hill (1603 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514).
Please come early to sign-in and warmup. Everyone will learn a combination and improvise in small groups. Final decisions will be released the following week and rehearsals for the 2024/25 company will begin Sept. 7th, 2024.
If you have any questions you may contact us at: info@ncyte.org
Bring NCYTE to your school or event!
We are always looking for opportunities to connect with our community and share the history and joy of tap dancing. If you want share an opportunity you know of, are organizing an event, or would like to invite us to your school or studio. please fill out the form below. A member of our team will be in touch to follow up.
Thank you for your interest in NCYTE!
Our Partners & Sponsors
The North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble is an independent youth arts non-profit organization. We believe that tap dance should be accessible to everyone and continue to be available to tap dancers free of charge.
The North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble gratefully acknowledges the generous support of many individuals, businesses and foundations in our community.
This program is supported by the Orange County Arts Commission.
We are honored to be awarded the Grassroots Art Program Grant to support our 41st season of promoting tap dance in Orange County, NC.
Contact
North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble
For General Information:
Email us at info@ncyte.org
To Book NCYTE:
Emily Acree
Company Manager
North Carolina Youth Tap Ensemble
P.O. Box 9161
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
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