SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS
With the generosity of foundations, government support, and individual donors, KDO can invite, through scholarships, over 100 children each year to participate in our Advanced Programs. These are children from all corners of Indianapolis who, throughout their participation in the KDO In-School Program, demonstrate extraordinary commitment and a desire to go beyond. KDO’s advanced training includes the SWAT Team and the X-Team – both ensembles perform throughout the year.
SWAT TEAM
Upon completing the In-School Programs, children who have shown extraordinary commitment and enthusiasm are invited to join KDO’s SWAT Team (Student Winning Attitudes Team). This is not an audition-based acceptance program but rather a scholarship opportunity for dancers who, have consistently throughout their participation, hard work, and achievements, proven to be ready to continue beyond. SWAT Team dancers gather weekly, outside of school time, participate in master classes and work as an ensemble throughout the year, leading up to the KDO Event of the Year – a professionally produced performance that brings together diverse audiences and celebrates the children’s year-long learning and achievements.
X-TEAM
Dancers who have been part of the SWAT Team for at least a year, and demonstrate extraordinary commitment, and a level of readiness to further their studies with KDO are invited, through scholarships, to join the KDO Extension Team (X-Team). This group performs throughout the year to larger audiences and is often invited to be part of public and civic events to represent KDO. Past performances by the X-Team include SPOTLIGHT at Clowes Memorial Hall, Indianapolis City Ballet Gala, The Nutcracker with Ballet Theatre of Carmel, Indiana’s Bicentennial Celebration, Start With Art, Arts Education Partnership Conference, and Juneteenth Celebration at the Eiteljorg Museum.
