Stage
NYC
July 23-26, 2026
WHERE
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Dance Lab Studios is a dynamic creative hub where dancers and choreographers come together to train, collaborate and develop new work. The state-of-the-art studio features expansive rehearsal space and a vibrant artistic environment designed to inspire creativity and innovation.
SCHEDULE, TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATIONS
The intensive runs July 23-26, with a detailed schedule provided two weeks prior. Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel, housing and meals. Numerous hotels, short-term rentals and dining options are available nearby. Major airports serving New York City include John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
Director
Al Blackstone
alblackstonechoreo
Guest Artist
Announcments
Coming Soon
THE EXPERIENCE
PIVOT Stage, led by acclaimed choreographer Al Blackstone, is designed to immerse dancers in the full spectrum of performance opportunities that define New York City. Through a dynamic balance of training, performance development and artistic exploration, dancers will gain insight into the versatility required to succeed across today’s industry, from Broadway and professional dance companies to immersive theater, commercial work, film and television. Ever wonder what it’s like to dance on Saturday Night Live, perform with a professional dance company or take the stage at Radio City Music Hall? Curious what it takes to be part of a Broadway cast? PIVOT Stage brings these worlds together into one powerful, real-world intensive experience.
Participants spend approximately 4 hours in the studio focused on movement and dance training, followed by 4 hours of performance labs and industry-insight conversations designed to expand their skills as versatile, dynamic performers.
Hosted at Dance Lab in Midtown Manhattan, PIVOT Stage offers an immersive opportunity to train within the heart of New York’s theater and dance community.
MORNING STUDIO SESSIONS
Movement. Performance. Repertoire.
Each morning begins with intensive studio work led by guest artists and industry professionals. Classes focus on building strong technical foundations while developing the performance qualities required of today’s musical theatre artists.
Sessions may include:
- Musical theater dance technique
- Precision dance technique
- Contemporary/street jazz for theater
- Broadway repertory
- Concert dance / professional dance company repertory
The studio becomes a space where dancers refine both their technical precision and stage presence.
AFTERNOON ARTIST SESSIONS
INSIGHT. PREPARATION. OPPORTUNITY.
Afternoons expand into performance-based training designed to strengthen the full range of skills required for the stage.
Topics may include:
- Acting for musical theatre
- Audition preparation
- Dance for camera
- Vocal coaching and song interpretation
- Scene work and ensemble performance
- Navigating the professional theater industry
These sessions provide insight and exploration into the many ways a well-rounded performer connects and compels an audience.
EVENING STUDIO EXPERIENCES
(SELECT DAYS)
Community. Collaboration. Performance.
On select evenings, participants may take part in informal showings, industry conversations, mock auditions, collaborative performance labs or group outings to Broadway shows (ticket prices not included in tuition).
OUR MISSION
PIVOT Stage is designed to give dancers a clearer understanding of what it takes to work in theater and live performance, while building the performance quality, storytelling ability and collaborative mindset required on stage.