Class Descriptions

Class Descriptions

GENERAL CLASSES

All classes participate in spring recital unless otherwise stated and require a costume purchase. Participation in the recital is optional.

Contemporary Ballet – Ballet is the basic foundation of all dance forms. It teaches proper placement, carriage, grace, and poise. Barre exercises develop strength and flexibility, while center work allows the student to practice classic dance principles. Ballet is strongly recommended as a compliment to other classes as the terminology and placement learned in ballet carries over to all other forms of dance. This class will be taught in a more relaxed atmosphere using current music and modern approach.

Ballet/Jazz Combo – A great way for gaining a foundation in both dance disciplines. Barre work focuses on alignment and terminology followed by a jazz warm-up and exercises across the floor. Class reinforces placement and floor work.

Breakdancing – Breakdancing is a unique urban style of the hip hop culture that incorporates acrobatic dance.

Broadway Dance – This class teaches students original Broadway choreography from a number of popular Broadway shows. Learn the styles of famous choreographers like Bob Fosse, Susan Stroman and Jerome Robbins. This class emphasis is on telling a story through dance using music from shows like Chicago, Hairspray, Wicked and Rent. This class is perfect for students who love to perform on stage and prepares them for musical auditions.

Hip Hop and Boys Only Hip Hop – Hip Hop is a lifestyle and attitude that has developed both musically and physically over t he past 20+ years. Hip Hop is not only a fun and athletic form of exercise but it has earned respect as an influential form of dance. The hip hop student will learn techniques such as body isolations, pop-lock movement, and how to execute diverse styles and attitude.

Jazz – Jazz dance is an American dance form, that evolves and changes with the latest popular styles. Students work on placement & technique while learning modern & contemporary jazz styles. Classes consist of warm-ups, floor progressions, and center combinations. Ballet is strongly recommended to be taken as a pre-requisite or in conjunction with all Jazz classes.

Pop Jazz/Jazz Funk – combines the technique of jazz dance along with other current popular dance styles. It is influenced by pop music, rap, hip hop, and funk. Our instructors bring their own creativity and energy to the mix. This type of dance is seen in pop videos and television commercial shows.

Lyrical Jazz – Highly recommend taking Ballet in conjunction with this class. This expressive form of dance blends ballet, jazz, and modern. Dramatic content and emotional expression make this a popular class.

Poms – Students will learn the skills needed to be a part of a school pom squad. Class focuses on the lines of the body and working in complete unison with other dancers. The class will drill kicks, leaps, turns, and tricks as well as focus on flexibility and pom choreography.

Drill/Pom and Pom Funk – This is an extremely popular and energetic dance form. These classes combine aspects of both Poms and Hip Hop and will prepare you to “bring it on” and have the proper confidence and energy to perform!

TECHINQUE CLASSES

These classes do not participate in the spring recital.

Ballet Tech – this is a serious and structured class that is the basic foundation for all dance forms. It teaches proper placement, carriage, grace and poise. Barre exercises develop strength and flexibility, while center work allows the student to practice classic dance principles. Ballet Tech is strongly recommended as a compliment to other classes as the terminology and placement learned in ballet carries over to all forms of dance.

Ballet for Skaters – this class is geared specifically for the grace, poise, and alignment needed for figure skaters. It teaches proper placement, carriage, grace, and poise. Barre exercises develop strength and flexibility, while center work allows the student to practice classic dance principles. Ballet is strongly recommended as a compliment to other classes as the terminology and placement learned in ballet carries over to greatly improve skating performance.

Hip Hop Progressions – this class is a technique only class with no choreography being taught. All elements of hip hop dance including performance, execution of movements, style, precision, and tricks will be drilled and perfected. This class is a great addition to any Hip Hop class and also may be a prerequisite for higher level Hip Hop classes.

Stretch and Strengthen – the goal of this class is to stretch and strengthen the entire body with an emphasis on good alignment and developing a strong core base of support. Restores muscle balance, opens tight joints, and ensures structural integration. A must for dancers looking to keep their “dance” instrument in fine tune; ideal for anyone interested in good posture, long muscles, and proper body alignment.

Turns and Progressions – this class is a great addition to any ballet or jazz class. T & P is a technique only class with no choreography being taught. Across the floor combinations, jumps, leaps, and many different types of turns will be drilled and perfected.

PRE-SCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN CLASSES

All classes participate in spring recital unless otherwise stated. The recital requires a costume purchase. Participation in recital is optional.

All Pre-School classes are based on creative movement so that your child’s introduction to dance is cheerful and fun. Children learn proper studio etiquette and behavior, while never losing sight of the joy and fun of dancing. brings. Classes are limited in size, however, a waiting list is available for any lass currently filled.

All About Arts – A combination of dance, theater, and craft projects makes this a well-rounded introduction to various aspects of the arts. Classes will include learning the basics of ballet and jazz, dress-up and role playing to help develop communication skills, and a fun craft project meant to stimulate the use of visual arts.

Ballet Divas – Explore both the creative and physical dimensions of dance while gaining awareness of music, rhythm, and movement. Classes are designed to develop strength, coordination, and creative thinking. A great start to build self-confidence, musicality, and large motor skills.

Broadway Babes – A combination of pre-ballet and pre-jazz taught to fun Broadway style music teaching creative movement and musical skills.Props such as scarves, hats, costumes, and musical instruments are used to develop basic rhythm and coordination. Independent thinking, gross motor skills, and creative expression are the focus in this class. (Ballet shoes required.)

Dance Party – An introduction to jazz and hip hop. Props and current music are used to create an upbeat and energetic atmosphere. Gross motor skills and flexibility are improved in this dance and exercise class. (Jazz shoes required.)

Functional “N Fun – This high-energy, non-stop movement class is a great opportunity for kids to learn the basics of movement skills. Great enhancement for boys’ programs. Agility, speed and improving reaction time are addressed in this class.

I Just Want To Dance – An introduction to hip hop, jazz, and creative movement. Jumps, walks, and basic turns are some of the steps that will be introduced taught to fun, age-appropriate music Basic technique and terminology is introduced to build a foundation for future learning. Children build motor skills (Ballet and jazz shoes required.)

Petite Poms – little ones can shake it up, too! This class helps develop coordination, rhythm, spatial awareness and communication skills through music and dance.

Tiny Divas – This class emphasizes structure, basic coordination and how to enjoy the fun of moving and exploring their space. The focus is on simple dance routines and incorporating the use of dance games. A great beginning to build socialization skills and self-confidence.

Fantastic Fridays – A great first chance to perform on stage in Beauty and the Beast or other plays. Children attend weekly rehearsals to learn songs, dances and scenes. The class includes acting, games, singing and dancing. Each child receives a part and a practice CD. Classes taught by experienced staff from The Children’s Theater Company. No auditions required.

Poms/Cheer – have you got spirit? Learn basic cheer moves, kicks, and turns . Fun, energetic class for 3-4 years old. (HP location only)

Ballet/Jazz – beginning ballet and jazz steps taught to reinforce placement and floor work.

Hip Hop – Hip Hop is not only a fun and athletic form of exercise but it is also an influential form of dance. Learn basic hip hop techniques.

NEW THIS YEAR

Dance is Special – (Teens/Adults) This class is designed for special needs teens and adults and is responsive to each of their developmental levels. This class teaches students the basics of technique in dance to all of the songs of today. The class not only focuses on coordination and balance but gives students an outlet to their own creativity. This class is an excellent way to get exercise in a fun and comfortable environment

ADULT CLASSES

These classes do not participate in the spring recital.

Ballet Body Blast – This is not your daughter’s ballet class! This class is great for adults who want to learn the basics of ballet. Barre work develops strength and flexibility. Improves balance and lengthens muscles to gain a lean look. Emphasis is placed on good alignment and developing a strong core base of support. Dress in sweats and a t-shirt – no tutu required and no experience needed

Dancin’ Striptease – An amazing hour of dance that will leave you toned and sexy. Not only is it a great workout, you learn moves to impress that lucky someone. No poles … and the only thing you will take off is pounds! Dress in comfortable clothing (sweats and tank tops) and gym or dance shoes.

Hip Hop – Be part of the fun of Hip Hop dance. This class begins with a basic warm-up to stretch and tone the body, followed by a fun, energetic hip hop routine. Hip hop dancing promotes coordination and agility. Movements are taught to the latest sounds in Hip Hop.

Mitzvah Moves – Learn the dance moves that will make you the hit of any party. Become the maven of the HoeDown ThrowDown, Cha-Cha Slide, and more. Guaranteed to prevent you from embarrassing your family and friends (just kidding) Ask about private lessons