Dancers Insights
Question 1
Why would you recommend the program to others, and which aspects of your experience have you enjoyed the most?
ADDA's exceptional mentoring has helped me grow immensely over the past 3 years. The staff have not only helped me with advice and corrections in my dance classes, but also career and audition help outside of class, and help with my cross training which has changed how I dance in the studio. The teachers are always open to answer any questions, and help me in any aspects where I'm feeling lost. The variety of classes and workshops that ADDA offers has helped me expand my dance vocabulary, and continue to find what interests me.
Claire Viitaniemi — Canada
"I highly recommend this program because it’s incredibly diverse and full of opportunities. The teaching team is extremely skilled, professional, and always ready to support you—both technically in the studio and personally throughout your journey.
There are many different workshops, creative processes, and chances to explore your own artistic voice through solo and duet creations.
Having been part of Adda since the first year, I’ve witnessed and experienced its amazing growth. Now, in my third year, I truly understand how each stage of the program is carefully designed to prepare you for the next, helping you build strong technique, awareness, and artistic maturity. It’s an experience that shapes you completely—as a dancer and as a person."
Pamela Barison — Italy
"Being at ADDA has not only improved my dancing but has also made me a more confident and independent individual. I have been given the skills necessary to feel comfortable stepping into the professional world. I have been so inspired by all of the international guests I have had the privilege of working with, and they have allowed me to become more versatile, create connections, and have a deeper understanding of what life is like as a professional. During my time here, I have been able to solidify my technique in various dance styles, explore new dynamics and textures, and discover who I am and what I like as a dancer."
Olivia Anderson — Canada
"I would recommend ADDA because they want the best for you always. Since the beginning I felt supported and comfortable to ask questions and grow both in my classes and outside. They offer a wide variety of workshops that I have found very useful. The classes are a high level and are being taught in a professional manner and with passion, which always inspires me. I feel like I learn new things every day and that I have the freedom to explore who I want to be as a dancer and a person."
Sascha Peskens — Netherlands
I would recommend ADDA for the amazing possibility to work with many choreographers and company members from all the world. For the faculty, which is always there to help and support your growth. I would also recommend ADDA for being such a healthy environment where you can let go things and discover your creativity.
Agnese Savoldi — Italy
I would recommend the programme to others because for me it has been the perfect place to grow both as a person and as a dancer. I love the high value the programme places on ballet even if it’s a more contemporary programme and this is what I was looking for when I was auditioning for programmes. My favourite thing about the programme is the workshops as it’s incredible to learn from and work with amazing guest artists who are very different to each other and explore a variety of repertoire/teaching methods and movement languages.
Isabella Sterrantino — Italy
Professionally talking, I think Adda is a really good dance program. We explore lots of different contemporary styles, practice ballet and have a huge physical preparation that allows us to space in our dance. Additionally, the entire staff of teachers makes us feel welcomed through taking care of us as dancers and human beings.
Carlotta Costantini — Italy
I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to push themselves, grow as an artist, and discover many different ways of dancing. What I love the most is the quality of the teachers and the workshops with guest choreographers — they’re always super inspiring.
Livia Barbe — Switzerland
I would recommend this program because it offers you the opportunity to grow as a versatile professional dancer. One thing I like about this school is that both the teachers and the other students are incredibly willing to help you grow.
Elisa Zambelli — Italy
The program truly takes both technical and creative aspects of dance training seriously. It gives the opportunity to aspiring dancers to enhance their potential and to increase the adaptability needed for the professional world. It helped me to broaden my skills and grow confidence in my artistry.
Gemma Jaenada — Switzerland
"I am loving my time at ADDA. The organisation is very good and there is a whole curriculum planned for each year. There is individual attention for personal goals. There are many different teachers and classes providing variety and versatility. There are opportunities to be exposed to all types of repertoire through guest teachers and workshops. All in a friendly and positive environment. This has made it the perfect place for me to grow as a person and artist."
Angelina Lemoine — Belgium
"At ADDA we are given many different opportunities to discover what we enjoy as dancers and artists. The variety of classes, workshops and teaching methods allows us to see so many perspectives that we can experiment with. ADDA encourages finding what works best for ourselves and not fitting to something that isn’t beneficial to us, as dancers and people. I value the care that is put into scheduling and teaching that allows us to see so many perspectives and the encouragement of learning and curiosity that we are given daily. "
Kirsten Viitaniemi — Canada
"I think the way Adda is shaped is great because it has a good balance between regular classes where you have time to dig into technique, details and artistry and workshops to discover new styles and receive new inputs."
Lydia George — Switzerland
"I would recommend the program because it's a well-rounded program, combining training with artistic research, creative freedom and personal growth. I've especially valued the supportive staff as well as the collaborative environment that encourages curiosity and openness. The guidance and care I received during my injury and recovery process helped me coming back stronger both physically and mentally."
Ana Júlia Oeter Veiga — Austria
"I would recommend this program because of how it allows you to evolve, there is a big focus on your mental state which really makes a difference and the teachers always take time to explain the steps which allows you to have a really good base and learn new movements quicker in case they are new for you. On top of that there are many workshops which allows getting in contact with different styles and ways of doing."
Clémence Le Brun-Jadé — France
Question 2
If someone is considering joining ADDA, what message or advice would you share with them?
"Start by clarifying your goals and what you want to achieve. Come with an open mind, ready to embrace every opportunity and learn from each experience. Be like a sponge — absorb as much as you can, because everything you live here will help you grow, both artistically and personally."
Pamela Barison
Italy
"I would encourage anyone joining ADDA to truly take advantage of this opportunity, because if you fully commit, the amount of growth you can achieve in even a single year is incredible. Don’t take the teachers for granted, they invest so much time and care in each of us, always pushing us to reach our fullest potential. Work to your maximum every day, but also stay present and enjoy every workshop and experience with an open mind."
Mara Solans Pina
Spain
"Be open to everything that is offered to you. Not everything we try will be the right fit for you but being open to trying everything allows you to try and see if it works for you or if there are other things that are better. We are given so much wisdom and so many opportunities it’s important to absorb as much as you can and find the ways that it works best with you."
Kirsten Viitaniemi
Canada
"I’d say: go for it, without hesitation! It’s an incredible experience, but you have to be ready to give your all, work hard, and open yourself up to new things. Come with your passion and curiosity!"
Livia Barbe
France
"Anywhere you go there will be things you like and don’t like, but the most important thing is your own attitude towards your journey, to have the eagerness to always grow, evolve and discover. It’s definitely a great start if you feel like you’re being supported in that journey by people who genuinely want the best for you. And ADDA has been that for me."
Sascha Peskens
Netherlands
"When joining ADDA, I'd recommend making the most of every opportunity you get. There are so many workshop and performance opportunities in the year that will help you to grow as a dancer if you invest your time and effort into it. Be open to trying new ideas and workshops to get the most out of your training."
Claire Viitaniemi
Canada
"My advice would be to be fully committed from the moment you step in the studio, to risk and go out of the comfort zone, to place importance in every class, (even the ones you don’t really like) because you learn from everything and every class shapes the dancer you will be and lastly to be really curious of who you can become. "
Isabella Sterrantino
Italy
"If you are looking for an intense pre-professional program that helps you become an independent, strong and versatile dancer, that has a positive mindset and experience of different styles and repertoire ADDA is the place for you."
Angelina Lemoine
Belgium
"To always take in as much as you can. Time passes fast and absorbing all of the information you have been given will make you a better dancer and will aid you in stepping into the professional world. "
Olivia Anderson
Canada
"I would tell someone considering to join ADDA to try to figure out if their passion is dance. If it is I would highly recommend they join this program as it is so helpful to learning who you are as a dancer and where you want to go in your future. "
Tamara Rose
Australia
"Joining ADDA is an amazing experience! Be ready to work hard and stay open to new experiences. The program challenges you in a positive way and gives you the chance to grow, improve and discover more about your own dancing."
Marta Perfetto
Italy
"Always keep focusing on your own path and don’t be discouraged by what other’s people obtain, on the contrary you should create an healthy and supportive environment. Be mature in front of every situation you are in and always commit."
Giulia Prandini
Italy
Question 3
How would you describe the level and the intensity of the program?
"The program is high-level and very intense. There are several different lessons every day and every week, giving you the opportunity to become more versatile. The lessons are very challenging, but this allows you to achieve great results in just a few months."
Elisa Zambelli
Italy
"ADDA has a high caliber and intensity in classes and workshops. From the conditioning classes to the creation processes, every teacher who comes to ADDA is knowledgable and makes sure that every student can make the most out of their classes."
Claire Viitaniemi
Canada
"It’s intense! The days are full, but that’s what makes the program so rich. It’s not too much though, so the motivation stays high. The atmosphere is great, and we learn how to manage fatigue, stay focused, and listen to our bodies."
Livia Barbe
France
"Personally the program is very intense but if you are very passionated, it will feel a bit easier. The level is also high but nothing to be scared of. The ADDA team will help you to find your path and all of the hard work will pay off."
Agnese Savoldi
Italy
"The program is quite intense but the schedule changes from time to time which allows to recover from the more intense periods."
Clémence Le Brun-Jadé
France
"The program is very technical and challenging in the best way. Is like that last stretch of fully emerging inside technique before becoming a professional. "
Valeria Vazquez
México
"The program offers so many international guests and workshops, as well as daily training classes. This makes the program quite rigorous and intense, but allows you to grow in many facets. We are given courses in conditioning, Horton, ballet, contemporary, improvisation, and composition. All of these classes help in becoming a versatile dancer who is ready to step into the professional world."
Olivia Anderson
Canada
"The program is challenging and intense but in a really good way. The classes push you to improve every day and help you grow as a dancer"
Marta Perfetto
Italy
"It’s definitely a hard working program where is important the consistency of the work and to be fully present during every class."
Stella Pegoretti
Italy
"The level it’s high and even if our schedule it’s quite intense we have our moments to rest and work individually (both emotionally and physically) and also practicing yoga/pilates or different strength exercises can be good to recover from hard classes. "
Giulia Prandini
Italy
"The program is both: challenging and inspiring. The level is high, demanding consistency and focus, while also allowing space for individual pacing and reflection."
Ana Júlia Oeter Veiga
Italy
"I think the level is technically high in classes like ballet, contemporary and horton as well as a good learning arc of discovery in classes like improvisation/composition or acting. You truly build a foundation to layer later on. also i feel that the amount of classes and workshops are a good medium between high intensity and a good amount of rest. they also help you with cross training advice on how to become stronger and have more body awareness while dancing."
Sascha Peskens
Netherlands
Question 4
How would you describe the environment of ADDA community?
"The atmosphere is really like a family. We all support and encourage each other, and we share a lot. It’s an environment where you feel both free and supported."
Livia Barbe
Switzerland
"I would say safe. I always feel very safe inside the studio. It feels like home, you are always welcome and somehow protected. As a dancer, as a person and as a human"
Agnese Savoldi
Italy
"I would describe the ADDA community as a very safe environment. One in which you feel safe to grow, not only as a dancer but as a person, where you feel welcomed and have the space to just be yourself."
Clémence Le Brun-Jadé
France
"ADDA has built a strong and caring community of dancers from around the world. Coming from Canada, I've had lots of help from other dancers here whenever I face any language barriers, or other obstacles. Being far away from home, I feel very fortunate to have made such great friendships while at the school."
Claire Viitaniemi
Canada
"All the teachers and staff members create a positive, focused and supportive environment for all students. This environment allows everyone to feel comfortable and confident to grow as an individual and dancer. "
Angelina Lemoine
Belgium
"I feel very cared for and supported by the teachers and by my peers here, which is something really special. The faculty wants us to all succeed and will help in any way they can. There is always someone I can talk to and turn to for advice, whether it be dance-related or not."
Olivia Anderson
Canada
"It’s a very positive environment and the best thing is that everyone is trying to help the others and you can count on teachers to help you also out of the classes. "
Stella Pegoretti
Italy
"It's a very pleasant atmosphere. People try to support and motivate each other. It's like a small family where everyone is there for you. This creates a good atmosphere and there's no unpleasant pressure."
Jonna Waldenmaier
Germany
"The ADDA community is incredible supportive and brings people together with diverse backrounds. I've built strong friendships as well as connections and feel constantly encouraged to take risks, exchange ideas and collaborate with my peers."
Ana Júlia Oeter Veiga
Austria
Question 5
What do you think makes ADDA special?
"ADDA is special because it offers a wide range of experiences and workshops that let you discover new ways of moving. Every day brings something different and it’s exciting to explore new ideas and challenges in dance."
Marta Perfetto
Italy
"The care and effort put into ADDA by the staff sets it apart. From thoughtfully put together classes to personalized mentoring, the program is tailored to each student to help them attain their goals. Regular meeting with teachers and constant feedback in classes helps every student navigate their own dance journey and helps them to prepare for a dance career in the future."
Claire Viitaniemi
Canada
"What makes ADDA special is the diversity within its community, dancers from different backgrounds sharing the same space, classes, and workshops. This creates a unique environment where we constantly learn from one another, observing how each person approaches different experiences and challenges. It also feels like a big family, where we support and celebrate each other’s growth and achievements. Additionally, the diversity of guest artists and teachers that the program invites allows us to expand our understanding of various dance languages, techniques, and qualities."
Mara Solans Pina
Spain
"What makes ADDA special is the way they combine discipline and kindness. They push us to go further, but always with respect and genuine care for each student."
Livia Barbe
Switzerland
"What makes ADDA special is how well you are mentored during the year, there is a real follow-up for each student."
Clémence Le Brun-Jadé
France
"What makes ADDA special is its combination of high-quality teaching, a strong sense of community, and a genuine commitment to each dancer’s growth. The program not only focuses on technical excellence but also nurtures creativity, confidence and connection among its members. This balance of professionalism and hospitality sets ADDA apart."
Gemma Jaenada
Switzerland
"I think what makes ADDA special is the amount of opportunities given to dancers through workshops and information given. It’s clear that all the mentors want the dancers to succeed and that creates a super positive environment."
Tamara Rose
Australia
"ADDA is special because it combines pre-professional training with a truly supportive and collaborative community. The emphasize on creating an own artistic voice together with technical classes makes the program stand out."
Ana Júlia Oeter Veiga
Italy
"What truly makes Adda special is the exceptional preparation and professionalism of the teachers, who are always available to guide you and offer valuable advice — even regarding physical maintenance and injury prevention. On top of that, the variety and quality of workshops with international artists and the artistic residencies make the program unique, stimulating, and constantly evolving."
Pamela Barison
Italy
Question 6
What do you enjoy the most about living in Barcelona?
"I love the energy of this city! There’s always something to see and feel. The sun, the sea, the people, the shows… It’s such a lively and inspiring place!"
Livia Barbe
Switzerland
"I love living in Barcelona! I love the architecture of this city, its vintage vibe, that there’s the sea and the mountains, and that there’s always more to explore and discover."
Isabella Sterrantino
Italy
"I've loved living in a big city with so much art and culture to experience. Being able to easily commute to different activities outside my dance day, makes it easy to get inspired and feel connected in the city."
Claire Viitaniemi
Canada
"I really enjoy the weather in Barcelona, the city, how open people are and how easy it is to move around with the public transports!"
Clémence Le Brun-Jadé
France
"What I enjoy most about living in Barcelona is the energy of the city and how beautiful it is. There’s always something new to see or do and it’s inspiring to be surrounded by art, culture, and creativity"
Marta Perfetto
Italy
"Barcelona is a city rich for its catalan culture and art but also very international. I love founding hidden places in the city or a bit outside of Barcelona and walking in the streets without any specific destination."
Lydia George
Italy
"That it has a great contemporary dance scene, the sun, the diversity in people, the architecture and art and how walkable it is."
Sascha Peskens
Netherlands
"For me, Barcelona is a very vibrant city — there’s always something to do or discover. I really appreciate the wide range of cultural activities available, often for free, such as live music concerts, art exhibitions, and countless opportunities to watch dance performances."
Mara Solans Pina
Spain
"The city itself is a source of inspiration. It’s filled with culture, community and green spaces nearby to enjoy. Barcelona offers a large access to dance performances, music, theater and allows you to expand your outlook on dance and other arts."
Gemma Jaenada
Switzerland