A great introduction to a classroom setting through movement. Students learn early coordination skills, to listen to a teacher and mimic her movements, different rhythms and body awareness. All of this is done through pretending, games and having fun to lots of expressive music. Some basic ballet is also introduced in this class
Pre-Ballet/Tap Combo Class
A basic introduction to Ballet and Tap movements. This class gives children a chance to try both forms of dance in the same class. Ballet teaches them grace and discipline and tap teaches them rhythm and musicality. They also get to perform two dances in the annual recital!
Ballet
A specific technique taught worldwide with origins in Europe in the 1700’s. Typically done to classical music with movements based on geometric and circular harmony of the body. It is very distinguishable by the constant turn out of the legs. The illusion of lightness and grace prevails.
Jazz
A form of dance that is very stylistic and energetic. It can be done in a range of styles with movements that are typically fast paced and dynamic. It can be done to anything from pop music to techno to musical theater.
Modern
Began in the 1930’s and is constantly changing and growing. It’s very loose structure and open viewpoint allows for and encourages many different styles, typically more lyrical in nature. Concepts that modern dance examine are fall and recovery, contraction and release, improvisation, working from everyday movements, motifs, etc.
Hip Hop
Most easily defined by its hip hop and funk music. Movements are typically quick, sharp isolations of various parts of the body. It is often seen on music videos done to new, hip music.
Tap
Best defined by the shoes themselves. Tap dance can be done to many styles of music and movement, such as theatrical, stomping, techno-tap, etc. The emphasis lies in rhythm, timing, sound and musicality.
Theater Dance
Dancing to theatrical music. Theater dance involves more character and matching personality to tell a story. We typically hold a shorter session of this class in the spring.