Competition Program

Where Performers Become Artists.

A nationally recognized competition program where technical excellence, artistic expression, meaningful storytelling, and community come together.

At CaRu Entertainment, competition is about far more than earning awards.

It is an opportunity to communicate.

To collaborate.

To challenge ourselves.

To inspire others.

To tell meaningful stories.

We believe dance is one of humanity's greatest forms of communication, and every rehearsal is an opportunity to build confidence, deepen artistry, and connect with audiences through authentic performance.

Pathways

Find Your Competition Path

Every artist's journey is unique. Our Competition Program is intentionally designed to meet dancers where they are, providing age-appropriate training, meaningful performance opportunities, and a supportive environment that grows with them every step of the way.

01

Mini Pre-Competition Team

Where Confidence Begins

Kindergarten–2nd Grade

Designed for our youngest performers, the Mini Pre-Competition Team introduces dancers to performance, teamwork, and the excitement of the stage while building strong technical foundations in a positive and encouraging environment.

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02

Pre-Competition Team

Where Potential Takes Shape

Grades 3–6

The Pre-Competition Team bridges the gap between recreational dance and advanced competitive training, helping dancers build confidence, versatility, artistry, and performance quality while preparing them for future opportunities.

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03

CaRu Crew

Where Performers Become Artists

By audition and placement

Our nationally recognized pre-professional competition company provides elite training, innovative choreography, meaningful performance experiences, and mentorship for dancers pursuing excellence at the highest level.

The Program

The CaRu Crew

The CaRu Crew is a pre-professional, nationally recognized competition team that trains and performs alongside top studios from across the country at both regional and national events. Rooted in technical excellence and elevated performance quality, the CaRu Crew offers dancers an opportunity to grow as artists within a rigorous yet supportive environment.

The team has been featured on Dance Moms, appeared in a pilot for a non-scripted docu-series, performed as part of New York's Got Talent in Times Square, and taken the stage at NYC's Cabaret for a Cause alongside Broadway and television performers. The CaRu Crew was also proud to participate in the first-ever ECDC Charity Showcase, uniting leading competitive studios from across the region in support of a shared cause.

Both the CaRu Crew and its faculty have received widespread industry recognition. The team and its lead choreographer and Artistic Director, Cassie Russo-Sweeney, were honored as nominees at the Industry Dance Awards. CaRu Entertainment is also an invited member of the Association of Dance Competitions and Conventions and has been recognized as a Studio of Excellence Award recipient.

Individually, CaRu Crew dancers have achieved notable milestones, including competing as soloists at The Dance Awards, training at the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School, and being featured in Dance Spirit Magazine, Pointe Magazine, A Wish Come True, and So Danca Apparel. Dancers have also appeared in programs for Encore DCS and Headliners. CaRu Crew alumni have gone on to perform on So You Think You Can Dance, dance professionally and collegiately—including with teams such as the Knicks City Dancers—and gain acceptance into highly competitive college dance programs.

At its core, being a member of the CaRu Crew means joining a team built on mentorship, opportunity, and integrity. Dancers are guided by experienced professional instructors who are committed to developing versatile people, not just versatile dancers. Mutual respect and support are foundational values—upheld by both students and faculty—creating an environment where artists are challenged, nurtured, and empowered to achieve extraordinary growth.

The Difference

Why Families Choose CaRu

Storytelling Through Movement

Our choreography is recognized for communicating meaningful stories that resonate with audiences long after the performance ends.

Professional Mentorship

Experienced educators and industry professionals guide dancers both artistically and personally.

Character & Community

Mutual respect, encouragement, teamwork, and integrity are foundational values of every rehearsal and performance.

Performance Opportunities

Regional and national competitions, conventions, professional experiences, charity performances, and community events provide meaningful opportunities to grow as artists.

Technical Excellence

Comprehensive training develops versatile, confident performers prepared for the next stage of their artistic journey.

Achievements

Recognition & Achievements

While awards are never our ultimate goal, we are honored to have our dancers, faculty, and choreography recognized by respected organizations throughout the competitive dance industry. These accomplishments reflect the dedication, artistry, and collaborative spirit of our students and faculty.

2026 America Loves to Dance Awards

Champion — Teen Large Group — "To Be Loved"

2nd Runner-Up — Senior Small Group — "Heal"

2nd Runner-Up — Junior Small Group — "Home"

2nd Runner-Up — Teen Super Group — "MonStars of Mayhem"

2026 Showstopper Northeast Finals

Mashantucket, Connecticut

1st Overall — "To Be Loved"

1st Overall — "Home"

2nd Overall — "Heal"

4th Overall — "Her Way"

5th Overall — "Handle With Care"

10th Overall — "The Reading"

2nd Overall Duo/Trio — "The Head vs. The Heart"

3rd Overall Duo/Trio — "Locomotion"

10th Overall Duo/Trio — "Don't You Mess Around"

1st Overall Solo — Poppy Sweeney

7th Overall Solo — Ava Charlton

9th Overall Solo — Emma Schmelzer

10th Overall Solo — Leila Advani

2026 Encore DCS Regionals

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Top Scoring Elite Routine — "The Head vs. The Heart"

2026 Ticket to Broadway Regionals

Wilmington, Delaware

Highest Scoring Routine — "Heal"

Best Choreography (Elite Division 13+) — "Heal"

Best Performance (Elite Division 13+) — "Dancing People"

Best Technique (Elite Division 12 & Under) — "Home"

Our Measure of Success

Beyond the Awards

We believe the greatest success of the CaRu Competition Program cannot be measured by trophies alone.

It is reflected in the artists our dancers become, the stories they learn to tell, the confidence they develop, the friendships they build, and the impact they make long after they leave our studio.

Our proudest accomplishment is watching our students grow into thoughtful artists, confident leaders, and compassionate individuals prepared for whatever stage comes next.

Begin Your Journey

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Whether you're taking your first steps into competitive dance or searching for an elite training environment rooted in artistry, mentorship, and meaningful storytelling, we'd love to help you discover the pathway that's right for your family.