recreational program

DISCOVER DANCE & Pre-Ballet

Introduces young children, ages two through five, to the basics of dance in a motivational class structure which highlights movement, musical awareness and self expression. The thoughtfully structured classes use dramatic play and music, in conjunction with exercises and various props. The program encourages the love of music and dance while inspiring imagination and stimulating creativity. This practical learning experience fosters participation, artistry, imagination and self-assurance, in a very enjoyable, child- centered atmosphere.

Ballet

Classical Ballet training provides the mandatory essentials of body awareness, equilibrium, core strength and posture required for all styles of dancing, and is the foundation of any strong dance education program. The Dance Academy’s Ballet curriculum has been heavily influenced by the teachings of “Enrico Cecchetti”, who devised a system of required daily exercises designed for mastering poise, sense of line, elevation and presentation. The great dancers of the 20th and 21st century, from Anna Pavlova to Karen Kain have been influenced by the teachings of Enrico Cecchetti.

Pre-pointe and pointe classes are offered for those students who show a keen interest in continuing their ballet studies. Pointe students are required to attend a minimum of two ballet classes per week, in order to gain the necessary strength, alignment, technique and endurance for the demands of pointe work. Admittance into the class is at the discretion of the instructor.

JAZZ

Jazz dancing is an energetic and fun dance form- consisting of syncopated rhythms, intricate movements, improvisation, big leaps, and complex turns. Jazz showcases a dancer’s individual style and originality allowing every dancer the ability to interpret and execute the steps in their own unique way. To excel in jazz, dancers need a strong background in ballet, as it encourages grace and balance. In recent years, Jazz has become one of the most popular dance styles mainly due to its popularity in movies, and on television shows, such as So You Think You Can Dance.

Modern/ Lyrical Dance

Modern and Lyrical Dance defies a single permanent definition. This is largely due to its ability to adapt, develop and evolve with the ever changing trends in dance. It is a fusion of multiple dance styles including ballet, jazz, and even contains elements of hip hop. The children’s program utilizes imagery and props to encourage students to move creatively while enhancing their self confidence and musicality. As students mature, this dance style challenges the dancers to use motion and movement to interpret music and express emotion, making a strong technical background essential.

tap

Tap dancing develops a great sense of rhythm and timing as the instructor helps the student focus on music awareness while incorporating tap steps and combinations. Tap dancing is a fun style of dance that is beneficial in many ways such as increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility and coordination. Cognitive abilities are also enhanced through this dance style, as tap dancers must develop both mental and muscle memory to become proficient at tapping out rhythms in correct timing.

Hip Hop

Hip hop dancing is an ideal way to express one’s creativeness. The dancing represents body movements that go with the beat and rhythm of hip hop music including break dancing, popping, locking, and free styling. Hip hop dancing is considered a good exercise for all ages.  It helps to improve flexibility, core strength, balance, and coordination, all while having fun. This dance form allows the dancers to improve their own style and to remain in good physical shape. Hip hop dancing can be learned by all those who are interested in dancing- there is no age limitation or restriction for learners and dancers.

Acro Dance

This exciting dance form is an extremely popular dance sport that combines Gymnastics and dance elements to create excitement, learning and fun. Exploring both dance and acrobatic tricks keeps the kids engaged, excited, and eager for every class. 

The program is based on safe and effective progressions in five divisions of AcroDance: flexibility, strength, balancing, limbering and tumbling.