INNOVATIVE
DANCE
EDUCATION
KDO provides accessible, high-quality dance and arts education to children throughout Indianapolis, offering programs at no cost to participating children and families. Master Teaching Artists and Musicians lead every class: high-energy, inspiring, and inclusive dance where children of all backgrounds and abilities can succeed!
As an Associate of National Dance Institute (NDI), KDO’s Teaching Artists are trained in and inspired by the NDI Method®, a nationally recognized arts education pedagogy developed by National Dance Institute that engages children through excellence, creativity, and artistic achievement.
During School Time
IN-SCHOOL PROGRAM
KDO Teaching Artists and Musicians visit schools around Indianapolis to provide weekly, during-school-time programs for elementary-age children. With a deep commitment to partnership, KDO works individually with each Partner School to design programming that best meets the needs of their children and school community. All children in the designated grade participate in the program.
After School
ADVANCED TEAMS
Once they complete their introductory In-School Program, children who demonstrate extraordinary commitment and readiness are invited to join KDO’s Advanced Teams. Through full scholarships, dancers participate in ongoing, weekly advanced classes. Approximately 100 children participate yearly.
DANCERS WITH DISABILITIES
While all KDO programs are inclusive and serve children of all abilities, the Dancers with Disabilities programs offer further opportunities specifically designed for children with disabilities to thrive.
Programs Include:
- Adaptive Dance
- FLOW (Fueling Life on Wheels)
- IMAGINE Summer Camp
- PACES
Two-Week Open
SUMMER PROGRAM
KDO’s Summer Program mirrors our In-School program as a two-week introductory KDO program for rising 3rd- and 4th-graders in our community. No matter which school or district children attend, this is their chance to experience what KDO is all about – joy, dance, live music, friendships, and more!
Two weeks in June
Registration opens in January 2027
Outreach
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
KDO’s mission is fueled by our communities’ need for high-quality dance and arts programs. Schools, families, and community organizations regularly turn to us to bring dance to the children they serve. From performances and program collaborations to educator professional development, workshops, and custom curricula, our team works to meet community needs within our capacity.
F.A.Q
How can I enroll my child in KDO classes?
If your child is a rising 3rd-4th grader, check out our Summer Program offerings, as it is an open program available to all. If your child. has a disability, learn more about the KDO Dancers with Disabilities programs.
Can I just sign up for my child to attend KDO classes at any time?
KDO is not a traditional dance school or studio; we partner with schools and other organizations to provide programming. At this time, we do not offer registration-based enrollment. However, we may in the future! Stay connected and updated with KDO news, events, and opportunities.
How can I bring KDO programs to my child’s school?
If you want your child’s school to have KDO in their building, visit our In-School Program page and share information with your teachers or administrators! Put us in touch, and we will take it from there.
Where is KDO located?
KDO does not have a permanent building at this time; most of our classes are in school buildings, at the Athenaeum building in downtown Indianapolis, and at various other sites. If you want to watch a KDO class or need additional assistance, contact us!
When and where can I go see a KDO performance?
Our biggest annual performance is the KDO Event of the Year – a professionally produced performance held at a professional theatre; it takes place each Spring. In addition to the KDO Event of the Year, you can catch a performance throughout the year at various community events and spaces. Follow us on social media, Facebook, and Instagram to know where KDO will perform next!
Is it true all KDO programs are offered FREE of charge to participating children and their families?
YES! KDO is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that relies on donations, grants, and our community’s generosity to underwrite our programs’ costs so that all children can have access to a high-quality, transformative experiences in the arts. Your donation goes directly to the children we serve – helping us bring our programs straight into their classrooms and communities. Interested in making a donation? Click to Get Involved!