CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
Pre Dance (ages 3-4)
This is a movement class that explores rhythm, song, body awareness, locomotor skills, and creative expression. Exercises are geared to the developmental needs of preschoolers. Children must be able to be independent from parent for the class.
Dance Basics (ages 5-6)
This is a movement class that explores the elements of rhythm, locomotor skills and creative movement. We also introduce the children to the first steps and elementary terminology of ballet, jazz, modern dance, and folk dance. Enjoyment of movement and music is emphasized.
Ballet 1-5 (ages 7-above) and Teen/Adult Ballet
Most children are ready for the exercise at the barre and in the center by age 7 or 8 years. Careful, safe instruction allows the child to progress at his/her own pace to the next level. Correct body alignment and placement, along with understanding of musicality and expressiveness are emphasized. Ballet 3 meets twice per week, and Ballet 4 and 5 meet 3 times per week.
Pointe
Girls in Ballet 4 begin preparation for pointe work. When ready, they progress to pointe work at the barre, as well as advancement to Ballet 5 and pointe work in the center and across the floor.
Tap 1-4 and Teen/Adult Tap
Tap and rhythms are taught with emphasis on correct technique and individual expression. Choreography and improvisation are both taught, as well as a respect and knowledge of the history of tap and the great tap legends.
Jazz 1-5 and Teen/Adult Jazz
Jazz emphasizes balance, flexibility, coordination, strength and creative expression. Turns, leaps, and combinations will be taught. A wide range of contemporary, as well as music from other eras is used. Ballet is STRONGLY advised as a companion class since many of the roots of jazz dance come from ballet. Ballet is a requirement for Jazz 3-5 and Advanced Jazz.
Hip Hop 1-4 and Teen/Adult Hip Hop and Street Dance
This is a fast moving street style of dance as seen in music videos. Coordination, rhythm, flexibility and improvisation are taught. Styles vary according to the teacher.
Latin Dance
A wide variety of Latin dance forms are taught. Partners are not necessary. PasoSambaDoble is our Latin performance group.
Modern Dance
This class emphasizes strength, flexibility, coordination and musicality. There are many styles of modern dance. Our classes emphasize Limon, Graham and Garth Fagan technique.
Rising Stars and Special Dance
These classes are geared for students with physical limitations and/or developmental disabilities. Exercises for flexibility, strength, and agility are employed. Artistic expression through dance is emphasized. Rising Stars is a performance group. Tuition is based on a sliding scale; contact the Director for information.
Production Classes
By teacher invitation; if you like to perform we have production classes for children, teens, adults, and dancers with special needs. We perform in venues around Santa Cruz County. Requirements are ballet and jazz classes at the student’s level.
*All placement in classes is subject to teacher/director approval. Our primary concern is the health and happiness of our students. Advancement to the next level of classes is based on many factors including attendance, age and technical ability. Sometimes it is necessary for a student to study at one level for longer than a year. Placement notices will be sent home at the end of the school year.
