On Stage & Competition
Performance is an important part of the SM Dance experience. Throughout the season, our dancers grow in confidence, artistry, and teamwork as they prepare to share their love of dance on stage.
June Recital
Our annual June Recital features every dancer enrolled in our September–June season. Throughout the year, students work together in class to develop their technique, confidence, artistry, and performance skills, culminating in a memorable celebration on stage.
The June Recital is held at the University at Buffalo Center for the Arts, providing our dancers with the opportunity to perform in a beautiful, state-of-the-art theater. Recital Weekend includes three performances: a Children's Recital Showcase featuring our Creative Movement, Ballet/Jazz/Tap, Beginner Kids Hip Hop classes, and select advanced performances, followed by two identical recital showcases on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon featuring all remaining classes.
2027 Recital Dates
Location: UB Center for the Arts – Mainstage
Thursday, June 17, 2027
Dress Rehearsal (beginning at 3:00 PM)
Recital Dates: Friday, June 18 & Saturday, June 19, 2027
More information will be shared as details are finalized.
The Dreamer & Heather Moore Foundation Gala
The Dreamer is SM Dance's annual original contemporary ballet, bringing together dance, storytelling, music, and artistry in a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. Each December, our intermediate through advanced dancers perform this original production while supporting the Heather Moore Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals living with courage and hope.
Following the second performance, dancers, families, and guests gather for the Heather Moore Foundation Gala, an evening celebrating the season of giving. Each year, the Foundation honors a new recipient, with gala proceeds providing meaningful financial support. We warmly invite our entire community to experience The Dreamer and join us for this inspiring evening of performance, generosity, and hope.
2026 Performance
Location: UB Center for the Arts – Drama Theatre
Saturday, December 12, 2026
3:30 PM – Performance
5:15 PM – Performance
6:00 PM – Heather Moore Foundation Gala (UB Center for the Arts Atrium, immediately following the final performance)
For more information on the Heather Moore Foundation, visit beyond our walls
The Story of The Dreamer
The Dreamer follows the journey of a young girl whose favorite escape is reading in the quiet of the woods. As the pages of her book come to life, an approaching storm sweeps her into a dreamlike world where the elements of earth, air, fire, and water reveal the beauty, strength, and wonder of nature.
As she navigates this magical realm, she must discover the courage to trust the path before her and embrace the possibilities that await.
Filled with dynamic choreography, powerful storytelling, and original artistry, The Dreamer is an inspiring theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.
SM Dance Company & Competition Team
Why We Compete
At SM Dance, competition is an extension of the classroom. It challenges dancers to grow, experience artistry beyond our studio walls, and celebrate the creativity, dedication, and teamwork developed throughout the season.
SM Dance Competition Team
Our Competition Team is made up of selected weekly classes that are invited to perform at one local competition each season. Invitations are extended by Company Directors Emily Justinger and Kayla Washburn through classroom observation during Session I.
Selections are based on each class's overall commitment, including consistent attendance, participation in multiple classes, technical ability, and interest in competing.
SM Dance Company
The SM Dance Company is our premier performance program for individual dancers seeking additional artistic opportunities. Participation is by observation rather than audition, creating a supportive environment that reflects the values of SM Dance.
Selected dancers are invited into Advanced Choreography Classes, where original competition works are created and refined. Company members collaborate with a variety of choreographers, perform alongside dancers from multiple levels, and typically attend two competitions each season—one local and one out of the area.
Company Expectations
Company members are expected to demonstrate:
Strong technical ability
Consistent attendance and commitment
Respect for teachers and fellow dancers
A positive attitude and strong work ethic
Readiness for the demands of rehearsals and performances
To maintain choreography and team cohesion, Company members are permitted a maximum of three absences per session. Attendance at mandatory rehearsals is required, and repeated absences may affect participation in performances or competitions.
SM Dance Soloists & Small Groups
Solo Opportunities
Solo opportunities allow dedicated dancers to challenge themselves artistically while building confidence, independence, and performance skills through one-on-one instruction with their choreographer.
Participation is by application and observation rather than audition. Dancers interested in performing a solo should submit an application through our website when applications open. Final selections are made by Competition Directors Emily Justinger and Kayla Washburn.
Selection Criteria
Soloists and small groups are selected based on their overall readiness including:
A minimum of four consecutive years of ballet training (Hip Hop solos excluded)
Strong technical ability
Consistent attendance and commitment
Leadership and respect for teachers and peers
The maturity to handle the demands of performance and adjudication
Mastery of class curriculum and readiness for additional artistic challenges
Competition Opportunities
Competitions have been selected by directors to best highlight your dancers’ strengths and support their growth at this time.
Applications for the 2026–2027 season are now closed. The application for the 2027–2028 season will be available in July 2027.