Ballet
Classic ballet with its history dating back to the Italian courts of the 15thand 16thcenturies is the basis for all dance and our students are encouraged to begin with ballet and continue the study throughout their dance career. Ballet builds core strength, overall body strength, coordination, flexibility, focus, discipline, and technique that transfers to all other dance forms.
Ballet/Acrobatics combination classes (which include tap for our youngest students) introduceS the 3-5 year old to basic warm up of their bodies, working with a teacher, respecting their classmates, listening skills, introduction to the ballet barre (which will continue throughout their dancing lives), simple terminology and center floor work, across the floor, as well as creative movement and freedom of expression. Included in this class are simple tumbling moves and tap (optional in some classes) where counting, foot control, and listening are encouraged. Ages 3-5; 45 minutes
Ballet/Tap combination is geared to the growing dancer ages 6-8. It builds on the above beginner class with focus on posture and developing the ballet terminology of the dancer. Students are introduced to turning and jumping technique. Tap skills now develop into the actual classic steps of traditional tap dancing. Ages 6-8 one hour.
Ballet only classes continue with the growing child to deal with body changes and the strength needed to develop as a dancer. Ages 9 and up; one hour.
Pre-pointe work is included in classes for children 10 and up. This prepares the child for pointe work should the teacher decide they have the natural foot and ankle strength needed to do Pointe work.
Advanced Ballet class is for the serious student. This class has a strong focus on technique and terminology and combination work.
Pointe: pointe work is only for students with the ability to dance “on their toes.” A minimum age of twelve is required as well as teacher recommendation. Some students wait to do pointe until they have reached 15 or even older. Pointe is not appropriate for every dancer. The cost of toe shoes can be prohibitive. Parents must understand that pointe shoes must be replaced when they wear out or should the student have a growth spurt. (Shoes may not last an entire year, although they may last two seasons.) Students are never required to do pointe work and may continue flat ballet should it be deemed safer or more affordable for the student. Only advanced pointe classes are exclusively for pointe only dancers.