apprentice program

BBD's Apprentice Program invites Missoula’s most talented young dancers to train, create, be mentored by and perform with the Bare Bait Dance company. Many past Apprentice Dancers have gone on to prestigious college and conservatory programs but more importantly grew into thoughtful art-makers of their own.

APPRENTICE COMPANY MEMBERS ARE INTEGRATED FULLY INTO THE SEASON BY BEING INCLUDED IN:

  • Season Company Performances (1-3 productions per season - BBD takes on all production expenses including costuming)

  • Weekly Company Classes to train alongside the Company and Guest Performers - taught by BBD Executive Artistic Director, Joy French

  • Weekly Rehearsals (1-2 rehearsals per week)

  • Guest Artist Master Classes (approx 3 per season)

  • Marketing and performance photo and video shoots to boost dance portfolio

  • Potential opportunities depending on the season: regional company touring, one-off local performances, choreographic mentorships

  • Upon request: Letters of Recommendation from BBD Executive Artistic Director for any College or future Continuing-Education opportunities for which the Apprentice is applying

Apprentice dancers must be 14-18 years old, preferably with a diverse range of dance and movement training.

TUITION and SCHEDULE

  • Apprentice Position Commitment for our 2025|2026 Season: August 2026 - April 2027

  • Annual Apprenticeship Tuition: $1,200

    • $135/month for our 9-month season with Choreographer’s Toolbox classes and performance

    • payment plans and sponsorships available

AUDITION PROCESS

Interested dancers should attend our Season Audition held every May.

2026|2027 Season Auditions have already been held.

If you or someone you know may be interested in becoming a BBD Apprentice and you have any questions, please reach out to Executive Artistic Director, Joy French: joy@barebaitdance.org

current Apprentice Program Dancers

From Left to Right:

Genevieve Hedstrom — 3rd year

Plum Heuwinkel — 2nd year

Aubrie Phillips — 1st year

Isis Franczyk — 1st year

Pia Koelle — 1st year

Mara Reynoso — 1st year

Charley McDowell — 1st year

Florence Byrne — 1st year

Laurel Franchell — 1st year

Past Apprentice Program Dancers

  • Audrey Kurz

    Audrey Kurz

  • Gabi Wilson

  • Maeve Fahey

  • Lindley Erickson

  • Bella Campbell

  • Betty Wicks

  • Grace Nolan

  • Cate Gibbons

  • Liana Dillon

  • Mylan Marcum

  • Carmen Cavanaugh

  • Rylee Moore

  • Thalia Lambros

  • Phoebe Dillon

  • Ruby Wicks