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.
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
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Mia Beaudry
I am 17 years old and will be a senior at Agawam High School in Massachusetts this fall. I’ve been dancing for 15 years, with the last 6 being at Dazzle Studio of Dance training in all styles. Contemporary is one of my favorites because of how much I can express myself with the freedom the genre allows. This will be my third year attending Metamorphosis, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to assist. I love how the MPE provides unique experiences to learn and grow as not only a dancer, but as a person as well.
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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.
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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!
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Lucy McDermott
Hello my name is Lucy McDermott and I am from Glenview IL. I dance at Dance music academy and I am also my high school dance team. I love all styles but especially contemporary and ballet! I am so excited for Metamorphosis this year!
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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.