IOCB YOUTH DANCE COMPANY

HUMAN FIRST, DANCER SECOND!

IOCB’s YOUTH DANCE COMPANY was founded by Casey Lee Thorne and Lisa Shields, two Marin moms (who both have daughters named Chloe) who wanted to create a non-toxic training environment for serious dancers interested in experiencing competition dance.

Beyond their 20 year history teaching dance and fitness in the Bay Area, both Casey and Lisa teach in the public education system and in higher education. We offer a comprehensive, student-centered approach to dance education that prioritizes:

  • Wellness

    • Each session begins with a warm-up centering injury prevention and technical breakdowns

    • Students keep a gratitude journal throughout the competition season to promote body positivity and healthy mindset

  • Mutual respect

    • Dancers are encouraged to ask questions and voice their opinions in class

    • Families are given choices in dress code, costuming and music to ensure age-appropriateness and cultural sensitivity

  • Social responsibility

    • Dancers will learn the history behind every style of dance they experience and witness

    • Dancers will volunteer as a team at the Marin Diaper Bank to give back to the community

ELIGIBILITY

  1. Dancers must be 8-18 years old in order to participate

  2. Dancers must take a minimum of 2 weekly technique classes beyond IOCB Youth Dance Company in any of the following styles: ballet, contemporary dance, modern dance, jazz dance or street styles

  3. Families must commit to 8 weekly practice sessions prior to competitions

TUITION

Solos: $1,400 ($175 for 1.5 hour session x 8 sessions)

Duets: $680 each ($85 per dancer for 1.5 hour session x 8 sessions)

Trios: $440 each ($55 per dancer for 1.5 hour session x 8 sessions)

ADDITIONAL FEES

+ $150 costume fee
+ $350 competition fee for each competition - covers food, transportation and chaperone

*We accept payments by cash/check/venmo only

*Scholarships available - get in touch for more information

*One on one summer intensive auditions, dance company auditions & college mentorship available upon request - inquire for rates

*Click HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to support our scholarship fund

REHEARSAL LOCATION

Rehearsals for solos and small groups will take place on Sundays ONLY at Roco Dance in Mill Valley OR Marin Dance Theatre. Specific times will be coordinated after registration.

2025/2026 COMPETITION SEASON SCHEDULE

Dancers may attend all of the following competitions, or only a select few. Regardless of how many competitions your dancer enters, they must participate in 8 weekly sessions prior as outlined above.

Embody Dance Conference – November 21–23, 2025

A powerful and inclusive space focused on artistry, wellness, and creativity. This event is highly recommended.

New York City Dance Alliance (NYCDA) – March 6–8, 2026

A nationally respected convention with incredible faculty and scholarship opportunities.

Artists Simply Human (ASH) – March 27–29, 2026

A convention emphasizing humanity, emotional expression, and high-level training.

KAR (Kids Artistic Revue) – Spring 2026

A low-pressure optional competition for soloists or small groups looking for more performance opportunities.

Titans of Dance – Optional Add-On

A dynamic, one-day workshop event that brings top industry choreographers to our local area.


READY TO JOIN IOCB YOUTH DANCE COMPANY?

Click the button below and we will get back to you as soon as possible to coordinate your competition dance experience!