DANCE PROGRAM OUTLINE

BALLET - The Classical Ballet program emphasizes precise training on a gradient basis with patience for detail. From the simplest plie, through the very athletic skills, the rewards of proper training are rich. These include self-confidence, grace, discipline, and knowledge of the arts. Classes begin with ages 6 through adult.

CREATIVE DANCE - The Creative Dance program introduces children ages 3 - 5 years to pre-classical ballet through dance and song activities, rhythmic exercises, physical and spatial orientation, and gross motor movement. Our teachers stress creative imagery with the use of varied props.

JAZZ - Jazz dance is a constantly evolving art form encompassing current styles from Broadway shows, MTV and “street dancing”, and is set to the popular music of the day. The Jazz program highlights technique, rhythm, style, and the ability to improvise movements. Jazz moves continually develop, and as students obtain higher levels of jazz, more advanced styles are introduced. The starting age for jazz classes is five.

HIP HOP - Hip Hop reflects the popular “street dancing with attitude” of the present era usually to rhythms associated with rap music. Classes emphasize strength, coordination, and flexibility. This dance style is usually performed to upbeat pop music and is a high energy format. At the upper levels of hip hop, it is strongly recommended that the student take jazz or ballet in addition to hip hop. Starting age for hip hop is 8 years old.

TAP - Tap classes concentrate on rhythm and footwork. Students will focus studies on the technique of basic footwork, rhythmic sequences, syncopation, and established movements. As classes progress, more advanced patterns of style and combinations of movements will be emphasized. The starting age for tap classes is 5 years old through adult.

LYRICAL - Lyrical dance is a blend of ballet and soft jazz. The emphasis of this dance form is on more contemporary movement with a melodic flow. The choreography is often very expressive of the lyrics and emotional quality of the music. Lyrical classes train dancers in free style balletic movement, turns, leaps, along with upper body style and projection. The starting age for classes is 8 years old.