INSTRUCTIONAL DANCE

Classes focus on strengthening the lower legs, feet and ankles in preparation for an eventual entry into pointe work. Pre-Pointe incorporates conditioning exercises with and without props to work on proper alignment, engagement, support and balance necessary for progressing en pointe. Ballet shoes are required. This class is by instructor invitation only and includes multiple ballet classes a week.

Pointe work is an evolution and extension of effective ballet training. Focus is on deepening foundational elements of ballet technique, proper body alignment and coordination, strength and control, as well as reinforcing ballet vocabulary and concepts while working en Pointe. Pointe shoes are required. This class is by instructor invitation only and includes multiple ballet classes a week.

Hip Hop classes explore age-appropriate hip hop movements, music and culture, with an emphasis on grooving to music and self expression. Class content incorporates hip hop posture, various weight shifts, footwork patterning, floor work and introductory breakdancing skills. Technical emphasis is placed on rhythm, musicality, dynamics and performance quality. Classes incorporate a variety of sub styles including, but not limited to: house, breakdancing, locking, popping, tutting, waving, whacking, and stepping.

Contemporary classes derive from modern techniques influenced by individual choreographic stylization. Classes emphasize energetic and qualitative dynamics, rhythm, musicality, balance, extension control, and proper alignment mechanics. Students will examine and explore choreographic processes, improvisation and partner work. The focus is on interpreting individual meaning within the music through expressive, performative storytelling.

Jazz classes begin with classical jazz technique that includes training techniques derived from Luigi Facciuto, Bob Fosse, and African dance. Various styles of jazz, such as musical theater, swing, lyrical, jazz-funk and street jazz, are introduced. Jazz utilizes isolations, a low center of gravity, clear body lines, and energetic shifts that directly correlate to rhythm and musicality. Emphasis is on developing artistry and quality dynamics alongside proper alignment mechanics, balance, flexibility and control.

Acro dance applies acrobatic and dance elements through movement and music. This genre shares similarities with rhythmic gymnastics, minus the apparatus element. Acro dance works to build strength and mobility with an emphasis on dynamic stretching, while exploring jazz dance fundamentals and acrobatics.