We believe that it is important for a student to be placed appropriately so that he/she can get the most out of class. Initial student evaluation involves determining a student’s present ability in light of previous dance experience, individual skill and muscle development. New students age 8 and younger should register for a class according to our age guidelines. Some students who are placed in a higher level will become discouraged and only lose their passion for dance. While others respond to the challenge of being in a class with students who are more proficient by pushing themselves to work harder.
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Preschool (Ages 3-5): This level concentrates on introducing creative movement to young children. Focus is on basic positions, increasing motor skills, improving balance and having fun with dance.
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Level 3 (Ages 5-7): This level offers ballet, tap and jazz options. Students will concentrate on more complex combinations, improving balance and coordination, fluidity and self-esteem. Dancers will practice simple routines and the focus is on positions, increasing motor skills, improving balance and flexibility.
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Level 2 (Ages 7-9): Students may take ballet, tap, jazz, acro, and hip-hop. The focus in this level is increasing flexibility and strength, and learning more complex routines. Dancers will work on maintaining balance and must have knowledge of basic positions and steps.
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Level 1 (Ages 10-13): These students have mastered the basic fundamentals of ballet and are working to perfect technical abilities. Participation in a ballet technique class and one pointe or pre-pointe class is strongly recommended for this level and is required for roles in the Nutcracker. Participation in Nutcracker and Spring Show is strongly recommended. Students in this level may audition for solo roles.
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Company (Ages 14-18): These students have mastered the basic fundamentals of ballet and are working to perfect technical abilities. Participation in a ballet technique class and one pointe or pre-pointe class is strongly recommended for this level and is required for roles in the Nutcracker. Other disciplines may be added. Participation in Nutcracker and Spring Show is strongly recommended. These students may also audition for solo roles. Dancers interested in the competition teams are required to dance for 3.5-4 hours a week.