
What is PDT?
Pipeline Dance Training, a comprehensive, elevated trainee program
directed by international dance educators Emily Bufferd and Tracie Stanfield,
is MOVEMENT IN A CLEAR DIRECTION.
Based in New York City, Pipeline Dance Training
focuses on technical precision, artistic development,
career & creative mentorship and industry-specific education.
Pipeline Dance Training was founded as a forward-thinking, professional-track program for serious dancers seeking to elevate their technique, artistry, and career readiness. Grounded in integrity, mentorship, and excellence, Pipeline offers the tools and guidance necessary for dance artists to step into the professional world with confidence and clarity.
“We created Pipeline to provide dancers with the kind of rigorous, well-rounded training and mentorship that we felt was missing for many emerging artists,” said Emily Bufferd, Co-Director of Pipeline Dance Training. “Our goal is to give them not only the technical tools but also the confidence and understanding they need to succeed in this highly competitive industry.”
About the Program
Pipeline Dance Training is open to dancers ages 17 and older and offers five days of in-studio training each week in Midtown Manhattan. The program’s curriculum blends daily technique classes with workshops, seminars, and performance opportunities aimed at developing both artistry and professionalism.
Program Highlights:
* Daily Technique Classes: Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Theatre Dance, and Company Technique
* Artistry Workshops: Performance quality, personal style, expression, and creativity
* Industry Seminars: Audition preparation, self-promotion, contracts, and professional conduct
* Mentorship: Personalized one-on-one sessions with PDT Directors and associates
Pipeline’s in-house dance company, Construction Company, working directly with Co-Director Tracie Stanfield on original works—further honing their artistic voices and collaborative skills.
“Pipeline is about more than just training—it’s about empowering dancers to find their own path and fully realize their potential as artists,” said Tracie Stanfield, Co-Director. “We want them to walk away from this program knowing who they are as dancers and as professionals.”
Important Dates
* Fall Semester: September 15 – December 12, 2025
* Winter/Spring Semester: January 19 – June 5, 2026
Schedule
subject to change
Monday Wednesday Friday
9-11am Company Class (Tracie Stanfield/Emily Bufferd rotation)
11:15 - 12:30pm Ballet
12:45 - 2pm Jazz/Theatre/Progressions rotation
Tuesday Thursday
9-10:15am Ballet
10:30-12 Construction Company
12 - 2pm Modern/Contemporary rotation
Faculty & Guests
Emily Bufferd, Co-Director
Tracie Stanfield, Co-Director
Sheila Barker
Ginger Cox
John Leggio
Beth Goheen
Eric Campros
Danielle Diniz
Jamie Salmon
subject to change
Photos by Stephen Delas Heras of Lee Katherine Fink of SynthesisDANCE