At this time, classes are only being offered for 5-to 6-year-olds. For students under the age of 5, please email juniordivision@alvinailey.org to be placed on a contact list. Please include the following in your email:

• Student's Name
• Student's Date of Birth
• Student's age as of September 1
• Parent Name
• Parent Email Address

First Steps

In this program, 3-year-old boys and girls, and 4- to 6-year-old girls develop their mind and muscle memory through a weekly series of fun exercises that lay the groundwork for proper dance technique. They develop body awareness and control while exploring their own creativity and develop an understanding of the connection between dance, rhythm and music. Children are encouraged to think creatively and listen attentively while they develop rhythmic awareness and learn the healthy habit of exercising at an early age.

Classes convene once per week (on either Saturday or Sunday) and are split into four age groups.

• First Steps I:    age 3 (boys and girls)
• First Steps I:    age 4 (girls only)
• First Steps II:   age 5 (girls only)
• First Steps III:  age 6 (girls only)

Bounding Boys

An extension of the First Steps program, Bounding Boys offers a creative, athletic experience for young boys, ages 4-6, to develop dance skills and coordination through music, movement and tumbling techniques.

Classes are once per week on Saturday and are separated into three age groups (boys only):

• Bounding Boys I:    age 4
• Bounding Boys II:   age 5
• Bounding Boys III:  age 6

A dress code is strictly enforced for both programs. To purchase dress code items, please visit The Ailey Boutique located inside The Ailey School. For store hours, please call 212-405-9100.

For information on training for ages 7-17, please visit the Pre-Professional Program page.

First Steps and Bounding Boys are introductory classes and do not require an audition. Classes are held on Saturday mornings, September through May.

Enrollment is happening now through mid-October. 
To enroll in the First Steps and Bounding Boys Program please submit an inquiry form and indicate a preferred class time.

First Steps and Bounding Boys Inquiry and Class Request Form

Please note: At this time, classes are only being offered for 5-to 6-year-olds. For students under the age of 5, please email juniordivision@alvinailey.org to be placed on a contact list. Please include the following information in your email:

• Student’s Name
• Student’s Date of Birth
• Student’s Age as of September 1
• Parent Name
• Parent's  E-mail Address”

To view a sample schedule, click below.

Class Offerings

Important Dates
 

Tuesday, August 30, 2022 – First Steps and Bounding Boys Program Orientation Week Activities
Orientation activities will take place via zoom. Communication will be sent by email.

Saturday, September 10, 2022 – First day of First Steps and Bounding Boys in-person dance classes

Annual tuition for First Steps & Bounding Boys is $1330. For more detailed information on payment plans, deadlines, and discounts, please see the Tuition and Fees Price Chart.

NOTE: FAQs listed below pertain to procedures at The Ailey School prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and may not be applicable during the current school year. Click here for current FAQ's