Moving in the Spirit (MITS) is comprised of several interconnected programs that offer participants the opportunity to grow and mature within the organization over time. Students typically begin in our introductory Stepping Stones program, with the opportunity to advance to the Junior Company, and ultimately the Apprentice Corporation. It is common for participants to stay with Moving in the Spirit throughout their childhood and adolescence.

Stepping Stones (ages 3-18) provides age-appropriate weekly dance classes to children during the school year. Under the direction of alumna Corissa Castlewood, Stepping Stones is Moving in the Spirit’s largest and most diverse program, with classes serving children in community sites across the Metro Atlanta area. Stepping Stones is the introductory level of MITS programming, with enrollment open in September and January.

The Junior Company (ages 8-12) accepts Stepping Stones participants and members of the community who demonstrate an aptitude for and commitment to dance. Under the direction of alumna Corissa Castle Wood, Junior Company members receive 4 hours of instruction each week in modern dance, ballet and life skills. The company performs at local community venues, and on a three-day regional tour. Registration and an informal company audition take place every August.

The Apprentice Corporation (ages 13-18) is Moving in the Spirit’s most intensive program, for teens who demonstrate a strong commitment to MITS classes and values. Under the leadership of Artistic & Executive Director, Dana Lupton, Apprentice Corporation members receive 7 hours of instruction each week in modern dance, ballet, choreography, and life skills. Students develop and rehearse dance pieces that reflect relevant social issues, promote diversity, and explore their unique voices. The dancers speak and perform in local venues and on the annual national tour, during which they also participate in service projects. Apprentice Corporation dancers are encouraged to take advantage of leadership opportunities with MITS, including teaching positions and office internships. Registration and a company audition take place every August.

Our Apprentice Corporation dancers also travel the country, while inspiring diverse audiences with powerful performances that address racial injustice and reconciliation. Since the program began, Apprentice Corporation members have taken their thought-provoking shows to more than 35 US cities and countries, including New York City, Toronto, Chicago, Los Angeles, the Czech Republic and France. During the tour, our teens visit college campuses, participate in public speaking engagements, and conduct service and educational activities with youth organizations in other cities. We strive to teach the Apprentice Corporation teens workplace skills and consensus-building techniques by involving them in the planning and implementation of the tour’s production.

Men in Motion works congruently with the Junior Company and Apprentice Corporation to provide additional support, performance opportunities and mentorships for young men enrolled in MITS classes. Under the direction of alumnus Chris McCord, Men in Motion provides a comprehensive set of activities for young men, including a weekly dance class, life skills workshops and special field trips.

The Mentor Program pairs Moving in the Spirit dancers with caring adult mentors who provide support, encouragement and exposure to new experiences. Mentors encourage students’ academic success, social development and understanding of the world around them. Mentors commit to at least a one-year relationship and interact with their MITS dancer through weekly phone calls, bimonthly activities, community service outings and school functions.

Summer Camp is a two-week summer day camp for 8-14 year olds that highlights the features of Moving in the Spirit’s regular programming. Each day, campers take classes in modern, African and Hip Hop dance. Additionally, they participate in life skills workshops, play interactive games and take adventurous field trips. Campers do not need formal dance experience in order to participate. Summer Camp 2008 will take place July 21-August 1. To download forms and applications for Summer Camp 2008, please click on the following link: summer-camp-2008-forms1.