The Let's Dance Summer Dance Camp

July 2025

The Let’s Dance Summer Camp delivered an exciting and enriching week of dance programming. Hosted by the Philadelphia Ballet, this one-week intensive offers middle and high school students the opportunity to immerse themselves in professional-level dance training. This summer, more than 70 students participated in the camp, held at the Esperanza Arts Center, where they engaged in five full days of dynamic dance instruction.

Led by an accomplished team of professional instructors—including Celine Edmonson (Hip-Hop dancer and choreographer for the Brooklyn Nets), Cherae Grimes (Principal dancer with Chicago’s Deeply Rooted Dance Company), Will Burton (PHILADANCO! company member and CAPA alum), and Mikayla Fenton (Philadelphia Ballet School faculty and former PHILADANCO! dancer)—students sharpened their skills in ballet, jazz, and hip hop. High school participants also explored choreography in depth, collaborating to create original works of their own. They were treated to a special master class with Kendall Gilbert, a renowned choreographer and hip-hop dancer who has performed with Snoop Dogg, Mariah Carey, the Philadelphia 76ers, and many more.

The week concluded with a vibrant showcase performance on Saturday, July 12, at the Esperanza Arts Theater. This final event highlighted the students’ progress and creativity, featuring both the techniques they learned and the original pieces they choreographed. While many attendees also take part in the school year Let’s Dance and High School Choreographic Mentorship Programs, the summer camp welcomes students from a wide range of dance backgrounds and experience levels.

Congratulations to all the talented young dancers on an inspiring week of movement, learning, and artistic growth!