Dance

Tiny Tots ages 3&4 - Introduces dance in a fun and playful way for your very young dancer. This class includes warm up games, rhythm awareness, creative dance forms and basic ballet.

Creative Movement ages 5 & 6 - This class is similar to Tiny Tots but incorporates more terms and positions. This is a fun foundational class that introduces children to ballet while instilling within them a love of dance that they can carry with them for many years to come.

Creative Ballet (ages 5-7) – This class is for children who have taken one year of creative movement and are ready for more structure. Students develop increased body awareness and control. Large and small groups of muscles are isolated and strengthened through the practice of specific exercises. Young dancers are also taught preliminary ballet terms and appropriate movements. Students start to develop an understanding of the relationship between dance, rhythm and music.

Ballet is the foundational technique for all of performance dance in Western Culture. Ballet is the most rigorous and detailed of dance techniques assisting the dancer in gaining control and mastery of one’s body and expressiveness. Not only for the classical dancer, Ballet is foundational for excellence for most performance techniques (modern and jazz).

Ballet – Beginner Teen/Adult ages 13 & up - An introduction to ballet, exploring basic technique through barre, centre work, and choreographed routines.

Primary I (ages 6&7) - Must be at least in first grade in school. This is a foundational class of classical ballet. Stresses simple, correct ballet technique, response to music, creative movement and preparation for the Primary I exam. Participation in the exam process is optional, but encouraged.

Primary II (ages 7&Up) Children with at least two years of dance experience and have the approval of the teacher. Syllabus work in preparation for Grade I exam. Participation in the exam process is optional, but encouraged. In addition to the Primary II class, students are encouraged to take one non-syllabus class.

Grade I (ages 8 and up) Students who have passed the Primary III exam with at least three to five years of dance and have director’s approval. A natural progression from the foundation classes with emphasis on correct placement, technique, and terminology. In addition to the Grade I class, students must take one non-syllabus ballet class per week.

Grade II (ages 10 & up) Students who have had at least three to five years of ballet. Must have passed Grade I and have director’s approval. Simple beginning pointe at the barre. In addition to the Grade II class, students must take one non-syllabus ballet class per week.

Non-Syllabus – (ages 8 & up) Classes are offered to students in all levels. They have a free style format that encompass many different ballet techniques. Emphasis will be placed on 1) developing responsive suppleness and strength of the body, 2) a conscious and artistic approach to movement, 3) diversity, adaptability, stamina and memorization, 4) strictness in form and technique while allowing artistic expression, 5) application and appreciation of artistry in dance.

Modern dance techniques have become essential in choreography from major ballet companies to Broadway. Structured technical exercises that condition the body for strength, coordination and flexibility are developed. Physical activities which focus on the aspects of space, time, shape, and movement dynamics are explored through individual work as well as group participation. Teaching methods for modern dance incorporate a variety of techniques that focus on correct alignment, fall and recovery, centering, and proper articulation of the joints, which are developed through warm up exercises, center floor work and larger combinations.

Modern – All levels (ages 9 & up) This class is designed to introduce modern dance exercises and movement qualities to young dancers. Exercises include core exercises designed to strengthen the abdomen and upper body as well as improvisational skill. Students are required to have at least one year of ballet experience and must be currently enrolled in a ballet class.

Tap – Beginner/Int.  (ages 5 & up) – Tap is a dance created by the “tapping” sound of metal plates on the ball and heel of the shoe against a hard surface. This class teaches rhythm, coordination, and syncopation, while strengthening the dancer’s ankles. The detail of footwork in tap, helps students to become more agile and mentally aware. This class requires no experience, but is helpful to percussionists and ballet dancers.

Jazz – Beginner/ Int. (ages 12 & up) Consists of foundational jazz dance elements including: counting & timing, directional changing, spotting, body alignment, contractions, isolations, jumps, turns and combinations. Dancers will also experience center core strengthening and stretching. Students are required to be enrolled in at least one ballet class and have previous ballet experience.

Lyrical/Duncan Technique – All levels (ages 9 & up) – Combines strong ballet technique with freedom of movement and expression. This class includes balance, control, flexibility, and interpretation of music with dance. Students are required to be enrolled in at least one ballet class and have at least one year of ballet experience.

Hip Hop – All levels (ages 9 & up)- This class combines jazz with the latest urban street styles. This class starts with a conditioning warm-up and teaches contemporary street dance. Innovative choreography and street style sets this genre apart from any other creating a high energy and athletic atmosphere.

Break Dance – All levels (ages 8 & up) – Break dance has a strong foundation in hip hop and gymnastics. This dance consists of four primary elements including toprock, downrock, power moves, and freezes. This class is very acrobatic and athletic. Its great for anyone who wants to add an urban edge to their repitoire.

Pilates – Pilates excercise dramatically transforms the way your body looks, feels, and performs. It builds strength without excess bulk, creating a sleek, toned body with slender thighs and a flat abdomen.

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