Modernizing the Ballet Audition Journey
Danceapply is an online platform that streamlines and enhances the process of dance audition submissions for both dancers and theaters.
Led the redesign of the responsive website, repurposed content, and created new features for over 350 pages within 4 months
My Role (Product Designer)
User research and interview
User flow
Design System + Chakra UI
Wireframes (Mid-high)
Prototype
Email templates
Pitch deck (For investors)
Sales deck (For ballet organizations/companies)
Social Media content
Site functionality test
The Team (7)
Founder
Founder + Backend Engineer
Backend Engineer
Backend Engineer
Frontend Engineer
Product Designer
Product Manager
Transition from Paper to Digital Audition Applications for Students and Schools
In the traditional audition process, students and ballet schools face the hassles of in-person registrations, leading to travel and time costs. Students grapple with tedious paper forms, cash payments, and the need for extensive printed photos.
Ballet schools, in contrast, manage heaps of forms and cash, adding to administrative strains. Meanwhile, dancers seeking jobs must navigate fragmented searches, as theaters seldom use mainstream job boards.
Browse Audition Page
Feedback from Teachers and Students - Addressing Audition Hurdles
To define the platform's architecture, we asked school teachers and students to point out some difficulties that come to mind when applying for auditions and receiving applications.
In response to the challenges school teachers and students face, the platform is being redefined to introduce tailored solutions. This includes customizable registration forms, allowing schools to adapt to their unique needs.
Furthermore, the platform will streamline the collection of application materials and fees and bolster efficient data management. Schools can effortlessly send acceptance or rejection letters, view comprehensive applicant information, and watch audition videos.
For students and dance organizations, the revamped platform offers a centralized space to browse all auditions, amplifying their reach and enhancing the visibility of opportunities presented by dance organizations.
Based on our interviews, teachers highlighted data management as a critical concern. With this insight, we meticulously designed a streamlined process that simplifies every step, from receiving applications to sending out decisions.
Application Submission Page for Dance School
With Danceapply, schools can easily manage applicant data on our website. Teachers can conveniently make their judging decisions directly on our platform and grant scholarships with the option to send final decisions via email in just a few clicks.
Design System/Figma components
Besides ensuring an optimal user experience, it was equally crucial to maintain a consistent visual design. Through my efforts, a design system was crafted, including a distinctive brand logo and specific typography, which provided a uniform and cohesive aesthetic across the entire website.
Brand design, logo design, Figma components & typography
Gallery - Advertising Materials
In addition to improving our audition platform, I broadened our marketing approach. I created targeted social media ads and posts and designed physical flyers mailed to schools. This dual strategy ensured we reached audiences both online and traditionally.
Feedback from User
“Thanks to danceapply.com, our audition process for the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s Youth Summer Intensive was smooth and efficient. The platform made it easy for dancers to register and submit their materials, and for our team to manage and review applications. We highly recommend danceapply.com to other dance organizations looking for a streamlined audition experience.
”
Conclusion
In addressing the challenges of the traditional audition system, feedback from school teachers and students has been very important. With the evolution of the digital platform, the once tedious and fragmented application process is now streamlined, connecting students seamlessly with dance organizations and creating a new era for the ballet audition landscape.
