New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble celebrates over 45 years of excellence as a pre-professional training school and performing company. Since its inception in 1969, NJDTE has maintained a successful dance curriculum with an unparalleled outcome of artistic excellence. The Ensemble provides mentorship programs and access to master artists and choreographers as role models, providing a network for the dancers to succeed as performing artists in higher education and as professionals in the field. An esteemed advisory panel of the country’s most inspired dance artists supports the Ensemble. Throughout the year, a full schedule of classes in ballet, modern, pointe and contemporary dance for dancers ages 7-18 are taught by faculty from prominent companies and schools, including the Paris Opera Ballet, Limón Dance Company, Twyla Tharp, Lar Lubovitch and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, among others. NJDTE also fosters advanced programming in contemporary and improvisational skills in New York City for dancers ages 17-22. The Ensemble presents a full-length production of “The Nutcracker” at Montclair State University, annually premieres new works by emerging artists-in-residence, and maintains a diverse repertory by renowned choreographers. The company also offers continuing support for its alumni with employment opportunities as NJDTE staff members and guest artists.