FAQs
GENERAL STUDIO FAQs
Why is tuition the same during studio closures (e.g., Thanksgiving, Winter Break, Spring Break)?
Tuition is based on the full dance year and divided into even monthly payments, not on the number of classes per month.
Why must injured dancers still attend class?
Injured dancers can learn by observing, listening to corrections, and participating safely (e.g., upper body work with a leg injury). Continued attendance supports consistency, education, and team connection.
Why can’t my beginner teen join jazz with friends?
Class placement is based on ability, not age. A dancer new to jazz needs foundational training. Placing them in an advanced class could lead to frustration or injury. We aim to build confidence through proper placement.
Why are parents not allowed in the classroom?
Parental presence can distract both dancers and teachers. Observation is available via studio windows and during designated Observation Weeks.
Why is there a dress code?
Dress codes help instructors assess alignment, reinforce discipline, and maintain a focused, professional environment.
Who do I contact with questions about class placement?
Please contact Owner Sarah Pohlman to discuss your dancer’s placement.
Do you have a yearly showcase?
Yes! Our annual showcase takes place each summer at Avon High School.
Can my dancer participate in class if we’re missing the showcase?
Yes. They can still learn choreography and purchase a costume, even if they’ll be absent from the final show.
Who do I contact about tuition or billing?
Email Sarah Pohlman at SPohlman@AbsoluteDanceCo.com
When was Absolute Dance Company founded?
ADC was established in 2003.
COMPETITION TEAM & SUMMER INTENSIVES FAQs
Class & Training Requirements
All competition team dancers must take:
Ballet (2x/week)
Jumps, Leaps & Turns (2x/week)
Strength & Conditioning
Team Rehearsals
Genre-Specific Technique Classes
Acro
Mandatory Team Days: Mondays & Wednesdays
(Some dancers may only be required to attend one of these days based on placement.)
These requirements build strong technique, prevent injuries, and support team consistency.
Summer Intensives & Auditions
Are summer intensives required?
Yes. Intensives serve as both training and auditions for team placement, solos/duets/trios, and special roles.
What if we miss part of intensives?
Missing a significant portion may affect placement. Notify us in advance. July master classes are recommended to supplement any missed time.
What should dancers bring?
Proper attire/shoes, water bottle, towel, snacks, and a dinner/meal for breaks.
What are the attire requirements?
Hair pulled back; no jewelry
Ballet: Leotard, tights, ballet slippers
Jazz/Contemporary/Lyrical/JLT: Tank/crop top, shorts/leggings, appropriate shoes
Hip Hop: Athletic wear, clean dance sneakers
Tap: Dancewear + tap shoes
No socks-only allowed
Auditions & Placement
How are dancers evaluated?
Dancers are assessed throughout intensives on technique, effort, behavior, attendance, and performance.
How do we get placement results?
Envelopes are given out the last day of intensives with:
Routine assignments
Weekly schedule
Choreography form
Pricing info
Nationals options
Are all dancers placed on the team?
Not guaranteed. Placement depends on readiness and commitment. Some may be asked to continue training and re-audition.
Can parents watch auditions?
No. All sessions are closed to maintain focus.
Solos, Duets & Trios
Who is eligible?
These are earned, not requested. Criteria include:
Work ethic, positive attitude
Group attendance
Team spirit
Past experience
Minimum group routine requirement
Can we request choreographers?
Requests may be considered but are not guaranteed. Pairings are based on fit and schedule.
Season Attendance Policy
4 unexcused absences allowed for Monday/Wednesday team days
6 unexcused absences allowed for genre-specific classes
Excessive tardiness or absence may affect roles or eligibility.
Competition & Convention Info
Conventions: ~$300-$500 per dancer
Competition Entry Fees:
Groups: $60–$80
Duet/Trios: ~$90-$120
Solos: $130–$200
Choreography Fees:
Group routines: $150–$350
Solos/duets/trios vary by choreographer
Fees are due by the first day of choreography.
Are competitions mandatory?
Yes—unless labeled optional. Absences only excused for:
Severe illness
Family emergency
Major pre-planned events (e.g., wedding)
Unexcused absences may impact future placement or eligibility.
How do I let you know how many routines my dancer wants to compete in?
Complete the Competition Season Worksheet provided before intensives.
Will additional rehearsals be added during the year?
The full-year schedule will be released after intensives. Occasional extra practices may be added with ample notice.
Can dancers request solos mid-season?
Rarely. These are usually decided during summer. Special cases must be discussed with leadership.
What about costume fees and fittings?
These are separate from tuition and choreography. Info and deadlines will be shared early.
What if my dancer gets injured mid-season?
Please notify us right away. We’ll adjust participation as needed while supporting your dancer’s recovery and progress.
Are there opportunities to assist or volunteer?
Yes! Dancers age 14+ may assist in younger classes or events for volunteer/service hours. Contact us if interested.
Communication
Weekly Email Updates: Sent Sundays with key reminders, changes, and upcoming info
Monthly Newsletter: Highlights events, birthdays, and studio news
SportsYou App: Used for competition team updates and schedules (each team will have its own group)
Questions or Concerns?
If you have questions about class placement, tuition, billing, or any other concerns, please reach out to:
Sarah Pohlman
Email: SPohlman@AbsoluteDanceCo.com
Phone: (216) 294-8500
Availability: Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Studio Hours: Monday–Thursday, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Sarah primarily teaches on Monday and Wednesday, so Tuesday and Thursday are the best days to reach her in person at the studio.
Sarah is happy to assist and discuss any concerns during these times.