Class Descriptions
BALLET: This class is designed to enhance the dancer's technique and principles of classical ballet. In this class, you will develop strength, flexibility, posture, and coordination while learning the ballet vocabulary and positions. Each session begins with a warm-up to prepare your body for movement, followed by exercises at the barre to focus on alignment and balance. We will then progress to center work, incorporating movements such as adagio (slow and controlled), allegro (quick and lively), and turns. The class will be led by one of our certified, experienced ballet instructors, who will guide you through the steps and provide individual feedback and corrections to help dancers improve their technique. Dancers will also have the opportunity to explore graceful movements across the floor, learning combinations of steps and developing musicality. Ballet attire is required, including a leotard (the color depends upon the level), pink tights, and pink split-soled ballet shoes and long hair should be worn in a bun. Remember to bring a water bottle and a positive attitude! Come join us and discover the beauty and elegance of this timeless art form!
JAZZ: Jazz dance is an exciting and energetic style that combines elements of ballet, modern dance, and African-American rhythms. In this class, you will explore various jazz dance techniques (i.e. classical, lyrical, contemporary and musical theater), learn fundamental movements, and develop your coordination, strength, and flexibility. Class Structure: Our jazz dance class typically begins with a warm-up session to prepare your body for the movements ahead. The warm-up may include stretches, isolations, and exercises to improve your posture and alignment. After the warm-up, we move on to across-the-floor exercises. These exercises focus on traveling movements, turns, jumps, and leaps. They help you develop coordination, balance, and precision in your dance technique. Following the across-the-floor exercises, we delve into choreography. You will learn different jazz dance routines, which incorporate a variety of steps, rhythms, and musicality. The choreography will challenge you to express yourself creatively while maintaining the stylistic elements of jazz dance. Throughout the class, one of our certified, experienced instructors will emphasize proper technique, body alignment, and performance quality. Dancers will also learn about the history and evolution of jazz dance, gaining a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. Attire and Footwear: Dancers must wear a black or assigned ballet color leotard and pink or tan convertible tights. Some dancers prefer to wear black jazz pants or leggings over the leotard, while others opt for leotards and black dance shorts. Tan split-sold Jazz shoes are worn to provide support and enhance footwork. Benefits of Jazz Dance: Jazz dance offers numerous benefits for both the body and mind. Here are a few advantages you can expect to gain from participating in jazz dance classes: Increased strength, flexibility, and endurance. Improved coordination, balance, and body awareness. Enhanced musicality and rhythm. Boosted self-confidence and self-expression. Stress relief and an overall sense of well-being. Opportunities for performance and artistic growth. No matter your age or experience level, our jazz dance program welcomes beginners and experienced dancers alike. So, come join us and experience the joy and vibrancy of jazz dance!
TAP: Tap dance is a rhythmic and lively form of dance that combines footwork with music. In this class, you will learn the techniques, rhythms, and vocabulary of tap dance while developing your coordination, musicality, and performance skills. Here's a description of what you can expect from our tap dance class: Technique and footwork: Dancers will learn the proper technique for executing various tap steps, including basic shuffles, flaps, ball-changes, time steps, and more. Through drills and exercises, dancers develop precision, control, and clarity in their footwork. Rhythm and musicality: Tap dance is all about creating rhythms and syncopated beats with your feet. Dancers will learn how to listen to music, identify different rhythms, and translate them into dynamic and expressive tap sequences. Dancers will also explore syncopation, improvisation, and different musical styles. Choreography and combinations: As you progress, dancers have the opportunity to learn and perform choreographed routines and combinations. These routines will incorporate the steps and techniques learned in class, allowing dancers to apply their skills in a creative and engaging way. Performance skills: Tap dance is not just about the steps; it's also about performance and stage presence. Throughout the class, dancers will work on developing their showmanship, expression, and confidence as a tap dancer. Dancers will learn how to engage with the audience, project energy, and tell a story through movement. Fun and supportive environment: Our tap dance class fosters a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Dancers will be surrounded by fellow dance enthusiasts who are eager to learn and grow together. Our certified, experienced instructors are experienced and passionate about tap dance, and they will provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement throughout the learning journey. Whether you're looking to tap dance for fun, fitness, or to pursue it more seriously, our tap dance class offers a comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience. So put on your tap shoes and get ready to make some joyful noise with your feet!
MODERN: In this dynamic and expressive form of dance, we explore the boundaries of movement and self-expression. Our class focuses on contemporary techniques, improvisation, and creative exploration to develop both technical skills and artistic expression. Class Structure: Warm-up: We begin each class with a thorough warm-up session, including stretches, exercises to improve flexibility, and cardiovascular activities to increase stamina. Technique and Skills: We delve into the fundamental techniques of modern dance, emphasizing principles such as contraction, release, weight shifting, and flow of movement. Dancers will learn various movement qualities, including fluidity, athleticism, and intricate footwork. Choreography: We explore choreographed routines that combine elements of modern dance with other dance styles, such as jazz, ballet, and contemporary. This allows dancers to develop versatility and adaptability in their movement vocabulary. Improvisation: Improvisation plays a crucial role in modern dance. Through guided exercises and structured improvisational tasks, dancers will enhance their ability to think creatively on their feet, explore personal expression, and develop their unique movement style. Partner and Group Work: We incorporate partner and group exercises to enhance your collaboration skills, spatial awareness, and the ability to interact with fellow dancers. This fosters a sense of community and encourages artistic exploration through the dynamics of shared movement. Cool-down and Reflection: At the end of each class, we engage in a cool-down session, focusing on stretching and relaxation techniques to prevent muscle strain and promote recovery. We also provide time for reflection and feedback, allowing dancers to share experiences and insights from the class. No prior dance experience is required to join our modern dance class. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, our instructors will provide personalized guidance and support to help you progress at your own pace. Come and join us in this vibrant and creative dance journey!
PRE-POINTE: The Prepointe dance class is designed for ballet students who are transitioning from ballet flats to dancing en pointe. This class is an essential step before starting pointe work, as it focuses on building the strength, technique, and proper alignment necessary for safe and successful pointe work. This class has a pre-requisite of an additional ballet technique class. Class Content: Strengthening Exercises: The class will begin with a series of exercises aimed at developing the necessary muscles in the feet, ankles, legs, and core to support pointe work. These exercises may include relevés, rises, theraband exercises, and foot articulation drills. Ankle and Foot Mobility: Proper flexibility and articulation in the ankles and feet are crucial for pointe work. Students will work on exercises to improve their range of motion and control in these areas. Alignment and Posture: Pointe work requires impeccable alignment and posture. The instructor will focus on helping students maintain correct alignment throughout the class. Barre Work: Students that are introduced to pointe will practice basic pointe exercises at the barre to enhance their stability and balance while in pointe shoes. This includes pliés, tendus, dégagés, and other exercises modified for pointe work. Center Work: As the students progress and gain strength, they will gradually move to center floor exercises, incorporating turns and simple pointe combinations. Pointe Shoe Fitting and Care: In a Prepointe class, students may also receive guidance on how to choose the appropriate pointe shoes based on their foot shape and how to properly care for their shoes to prolong their lifespan. Injury Prevention: Throughout the class, instructors will emphasize the importance of proper alignment and technique to prevent injuries associated with pointe work. Beginning Pointe Dance Class Description: The Beginning Pointe dance class is the next stage in a dancer's journey to mastering pointe work. Students who have successfully completed the Prepointe class or have acquired sufficient strength and technique are eligible to participate in this level. Note: It is crucial that students progress to the beginning pointe level only when their ballet instructor deems them physically ready and adequately trained to dance en pointe safely. Dancing en pointe requires a solid foundation of ballet technique and should always be approached with caution and under the guidance of a qualified instructor.
POINTE: Welcome to our Pointe I & II Dance Class - a captivating and elegant journey into the world of both classical and contemporary ballet. This class is designed for intermediate to advanced dancers who have developed a strong foundation in ballet technique and are ready to explore the breathtaking art of dancing en pointe. Duration: The Pointe Dance Class typically runs for 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the level and age of the participants. Prerequisites: To ensure safety and proficiency, students must meet the following prerequisites before enrolling in this class: Age and Experience: Students should be at least 12 years old with a minimum of three to four years of consistent ballet training. Ballet Proficiency: Students must have a solid understanding of fundamental ballet technique, body alignment, and core strength. Mastery of basic ballet positions and movements such as pliés, tendus, relevés, and pirouettes is essential. Ankle and Foot Strength: Pointe work places considerable demands on the ankles and feet, so students should have developed sufficient strength and stability in these areas. Class Structure: Warm-Up: Each class begins with a comprehensive warm-up to prepare the body for the demands of pointe work. The warm-up focuses on stretching, strengthening, and building core stability. Barre Exercises: Students will move to the barre for a series of exercises that aim to further warm up the body while enhancing balance, coordination, and alignment. These exercises are tailored to reinforce proper pointe technique. Center Work: In the center, students will continue to explore movements unique to pointe work, including pirouettes, arabesques, balances, and petite allegro (small jumps). Across the Floor: This segment encourages students to apply their skills while moving across the studio. They will execute grand allegro (large jumps) and traveling sequences to develop fluidity and gracefulness. Cool Down: To prevent injury and promote flexibility, students will conclude the class with a cool-down routine that includes stretching and relaxation exercises. Attire: Students are expected to wear traditional ballet attire for the Pointe Dance Class, including: Pointe shoes (properly fitted by a professional) Ballet tights - pink Leotard - their assigned ballet class color Hair secured neatly in a bun or classical ballet style No jewelry except small stud earrings Note: It is essential to remember that pointe work should be approached with caution and respect. The instructor will closely monitor each student's progress and may offer individual guidance to ensure the proper execution of movements and reduce the risk of injury.
HIP HOP: Get ready to move and groove to the latest beats and hottest dance moves in the world of hip hop. This class is designed to help you develop your skills, boost your confidence, and have a blast while doing it. In our Hip Hop Dance Class, we focus on the foundations of hip hop dance while incorporating elements of urban and street dance styles. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, our class is open to dancers of all levels. Our experienced and energetic instructors will guide you through each step, breaking them down to make them easy to learn and follow. Here's an overview of what you can expect in our Hip Hop Dance Class: Warm-up: We start each class with a dynamic warm-up routine to get your muscles ready and prevent injuries. This includes stretching, conditioning exercises, and cardio movements to get your heart pumping. Fundamental Techniques: We'll teach you the basic techniques and movements used in hip hop dance, such as popping, locking, and isolations. You'll learn how to execute these moves with precision and style. Choreography: Get ready to learn exciting and energetic dance routines! Our instructors will teach you a variety of choreographies, incorporating different hip hop styles and influences. You'll learn how to combine moves, perform them with confidence, and express your own unique style. Freestyle Sessions: We believe in fostering creativity and self-expression. During freestyle sessions, you'll have the opportunity to improvise and showcase your individuality. Our instructors will provide guidance and help you develop your own personal flair. Fun and Positive Atmosphere: Our classes are all about having fun and enjoying the art of hip hop dance. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where you can meet new people, build friendships, and share your passion for dance. Choreography is always family-friendly!
ACRO: An acro class, short for acrobatics class, is a type of physical training that focuses on developing strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and agility for performing acrobatic movements. Acrobatics combines elements of gymnastics, dance, and circus arts to create a dynamic and visually stunning form of physical expression. In an acro class, participants learn and practice a variety of skills and techniques that involve tumbling, balancing, partner work, and aerial maneuvers. The class is typically taught by a certified, experienced instructor who guides students through progressive exercises and drills to build their acrobatic abilities. Here is a breakdown of some common components and activities you might find in an acro class: Warm-up: The class typically begins with a warm-up session to prepare the body for the physical demands of acrobatics. This may include stretching exercises, cardiovascular activities, and conditioning exercises to enhance strength and flexibility. Tumbling: Acrobatic tumbling involves a series of movements such as rolls, cartwheels, handstands, round-offs, backflips, and aerial flips. Students learn proper technique and progress at their own pace, gradually advancing to more complex skills as they develop proficiency. Balancing: Balance is a crucial aspect of acrobatics, and students learn how to maintain stability while performing various poses and movements. This may involve individual balance exercises or partner work, where one person supports and balances another. Partner Acrobatics: Acro classes often incorporate partner work, where students learn to work together to create dynamic sequences and lifts. This can include lifts, throws, catches, and acrobatic maneuvers performed with a partner. Trust, communication, and coordination are emphasized during partner acrobatics. Conditioning and Strength Training: Acrobatics requires a high level of physical fitness. Conditioning exercises and strength training drills are often included in acro classes to build core strength, upper body strength, and overall endurance. Cool-down and Stretching: The class concludes with a cool-down period, where students engage in gentle exercises and stretching to promote muscle recovery, increase flexibility, and reduce the risk of injury. Whether pursued for recreational purposes or as a foundation for more advanced training in acrobatics or circus arts, acro classes provide a fun and challenging environment to develop physical abilities and artistic expression.
AERIAL SILKS: Welcome to the thrilling world of aerial silks! In this class, dancers will learn the art of performing breathtaking acrobatic moves and elegant poses while suspended on two long, flowing pieces of fabric. Aerial silks combine strength, flexibility, and grace to create stunning aerial performances. Class Level: All levels welcome Class Content: Warm-up: Each session will begin with a thorough warm-up to prepare your body for the physical demands of aerial silks. This includes stretching exercises to improve flexibility and strength-building activities to target the specific muscle groups used in aerial arts. Basic Techniques: If you're a beginner, you will learn fundamental moves and techniques, such as climbing, foot locks, and basic poses. These form the foundation for more advanced moves. Intermediate/Advanced Moves: As you progress, you will be introduced to more complex and dynamic moves, drops, and transitions. Emphasis will be placed on proper form, alignment, and execution. Sequences and Choreography: Discover the art of combining various moves into fluid sequences and choreography. You'll explore ways to create visually stunning routines that showcase your skills and creativity. Safety: Safety is of paramount importance in aerial silks. You'll learn how to use crash mats and spotters when attempting new or challenging moves. Additionally, qualified instructors will cover proper techniques to avoid injury. Conditioning: Aerial silks demand significant strength and endurance. Expect conditioning exercises aimed at building upper body, core, and overall strength to enhance your performance capabilities. Flexibility Training: Flexibility is essential for achieving beautiful lines and executing more advanced poses. Stretching exercises will be included in each class to improve your flexibility gradually. Cool-down: Classes typically conclude with a cool-down and gentle stretching to prevent muscle soreness and promote recovery. What to Wear: Form-fitting, comfortable athletic wear that covers the back of your knees and midriff to avoid friction burns from the fabric. Tops that have sleeves or can be tucked in to prevent fabric burns on the underarms. Avoid jewelry or anything that could snag the fabric. Bare feet or socks (without grips) are usually preferred.