Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble

The Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble (MPE) connects selected dancers from across the nation through the experience of performing a full-length concert dance piece.

Space is extremely limited, applications will be considered both on a first-come, first-served basis AND on the artistry/technical criteria required for the ensemble.

What is Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble (MPE)?

To participate, you must submit an MPE Application Form by August 20th, 2026. 

Dancers will be notified of acceptance via email by September 1st, 2026.

MPE APPLICATION FORM

Were you invited to join MPE at a Metamorphosis Affiliate event? You do NOT have to fill out the application.

HOWEVER: Your invitation does NOT guarantee your spot in the ensemble. You must register, and when prompted, note your confirmation of participation.

CLASS OF 2027 (HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS):

We are searching for our 2026 Metamorphosis; Fearless Evolution Assistants. Assistants will serve as ambassadors, class assistants, and awards presenters. Assistants will also be featured in the Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble and perform their solos in the solo showcase.

Applications due July 15th, 2026: CLICK HERE TO APPLY

The Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble (MPE) Package:

  • Comprehensive Access: Includes all standard Metamorphosis attendee perks and master classes.

  • Professional Residency: Intensive rehearsal blocks on Friday and Saturday led by elite Chicago-based artists and choreographers.

  • Artistic Commission: The opportunity to premiere an original work by industry-leading Chicago contemporary choreographers.

  • Exclusive Costuming: Performance attire curated specifically for the ensemble.

  • Curated Performance: A featured opening performance at the prestigious Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago.

  • Editorial Photoshoot: A special division session with resident artist Siglerphotographics to build your professional portfolio.

  • Digital Asset Suite: High-resolution, professionally edited performance footage and action photography for archival and promotional use.

2026 Assistants

  • Mia Beaudry

    Mia is a 17-year-old rising senior at Agawam High School in Massachusetts. She has been dancing for 15 years, spending the last six training across all styles at Dazzle Studio of Dance. Contemporary is one of her favorite genres, offering the creative freedom to express herself fully. This marks her third year attending Metamorphosis, and she is thrilled to return as an assistant. She values how the MPE creates unique opportunities to grow not only as a dancer, but as an individual.

  • Zadie Etienne

    Zadie Etienne is a 16-year-old high school senior who trains at Horizons Dance Center, the Junior Division at the Ailey School, LaGuardia High School of the Arts, and MOVE|NYC|. She trains in Ballet, Modern, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Tap, and African dance styles. Zadie aspires to be a Commercial Dancer and tour with Doechii, Tate McRae, and other well-known artists.

  • Tessa Hollender

    Tessa Hollender is a senior at Dundee-Crown High School. She has been dancing for 15 years and is training at Studio MDC. Tessa has trained in contemporary, modern, ballet, jazz, tap, and hip hop. She has also attended numerous dance intensives in the Chicago area, including several at Visceral Dance Center. In college, she plans to double major in dance and environmental science. Tessa has performed with the Metamorphosis Performance Ensemble for the past 3 years and looks forward to assisting and dancing with everyone this season!

  • Lucy McDermott

    Lucy McDermott is a dancer from Glenview, Illinois, who trains at Dance and Music Academy and is a member of her high school dance team. While she enjoys all dance styles, she is particularly passionate about contemporary and ballet. Lucy is thrilled to be attending Metamorphosis this year.

  • Chandini Shah

    Chandini is 17 years old and an incoming senior at Glenbrook North High School. She has been dancing for 13 years, the past 3 of which have been with Dance & Music Academy. Her training spans contemporary, modern, hip hop, ballet, and kathak, giving her a versatile technical foundation across both Western and classical Indian dance forms. Chandini is a part of TDC3, a contemporary company with DMA, and has also performed in multiple showcases with Naazare North, a Bollywood fusion dance group. She has performed at numerous competitions and conventions throughout her training, and is grateful for the support of both her family and her DMA family. Chandini is excited to make the most of her senior year assisting this season.