Photo by Doug Kaye

the program

the training ground sf (ttgsf) offers an intensive, full-time program for serious dancers preparing for careers in the arts. Through technique classes, creative exploration, and guidance from working artists, ttgsf bridges the gap between advanced training and the professional world.

At ttgsf, failure isn't something to fear — it’s part of the process. We cultivate a space where dancers can embrace risks, fall forward, and grow through challenge.

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable. That’s where transformation happens.

2025-26 program details

Program Dates
Fall Semester: September 8 - December 13, 2025
Spring Semester: January 5 - May 24, 2026

Schedule
Mondays: 9am.- 5:15pm
Tuesdays and/or Thursdays: 9am - 5pm
Wednesdays and Fridays: 9am - 3pm

Location: City Dance Studios (60 Brady Street, San Francisco, CA)

Tuition: $10,000/year
Housing is not included.

Students train in a broad and dynamic curriculum designed to build both technical excellence and creative range, including:

  • Ballet

  • Contemporary

  • Modern

  • Repertoire

  • Improvisation

  • Floor Work

  • Composition and Choreography

  • GYROTONIC® 

  • Critical Perspectives in Dance


Guest artists from diverse backgrounds are regularly invited to share current, real-world practices and perspectives, giving students direct access to today’s dance landscape.

Photo by Doug Kaye

curriculum highlights

Participate in the year-round ttgsf program for seasonal trimesters. Training Roots is the perfect opportunity for those unable to commit to a full year of ttgsf, as well as international students seeking a short but substantial training experience.

Training Roots Winter Trimester | January 5 - March 6, 2026 | $3150

Training Roots Spring Trimester* | March 16 - May 24, 2026 | $3700


Students may participate in multiple trimesters. Please contact us if you are interested in enrolling.

*includes performance opportunities

Photo by Doug Kaye

training roots

ttgsf is designed for serious, pre-professional dancers ages 18–25 who are ready to work rigorously and embrace discovery. We seek dancers with a strong technical foundation, an open mind, and an appetite for artistic investigation. 

Sound like you? Please contact us if you are interested in enrolling.

Auditions for the 2026-2027 year will be announced in November 2025.

Photo by Doug Kaye

who should apply

“Karah Abiog’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative. I’ve witnessed her cultivate a culture of care, rigor, and deep artistic inquiry — shaping not only dancers, but future choreographers and educators. Her ability to nurture both individual growth and collective excellence has profoundly impacted my own creative evolution. The environment she’s built consistently draws top talent, and it’s clear that her next chapter will continue to uplift the field."

— Natasha Adorlee, choreographer and ttgsf guest artist