The Dance Theatre of Harlem

Dance Theatre of Harlem School (DTHS) is a cultural, social, and educational institution committed to providing young people of diverse backgrounds with an opportunity to receive training in classical ballet and the allied arts.

The school's comprehensive programs strive to instill discipline and self-esteem, and to encourage creativity, enabling students to develop to their fullest potential and to excel in their chosen endeavors.

The school's positive presence in Harlem offers individuals a safe haven in which to explore and express themselves both emotionally and physically, and helps them develop into contributing members to the community at large.
-Mission Statement

Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, the Dance Theatre of Harlem School quickly emerged as a leading arts education center and an accredited dance training institute. From an initial enrollment of just thirty students, DTHS has grown to a registration of over 500 students per year, and developed a varied curriculum that, in addition to ballet and tap, has included modern, jazz and African dance, gymnastics, karate, Tai-chi, and even Irish step dancing. Other classes include music theory and dance history. Classes are offered in three programs (Community, Pre-Professional, and Professional) during the fall and spring semesters, for all levels of experience, ages 3 to 24 years. The summer semester features a six-week intensive program of study.

Dance Theatre of Harlem School's distinguished international faculty has extensive experience and training. From their first steps as beginners to advanced levels of instruction, our students experience the best aspects of Russian, English, and American traditions and training. The faculty also includes former DTH company members, insuring that the DTH style and the "artistic memory" of the organization remain intact and are passed to future generations.

Dance Theatre of Harlem School is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, and is listed as an institution of higher learning by the New York State Department of Education. This school is authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant students.