Danville Classes

3 YEAR OLD PROGRAM

A 45 minute class which incorporates stretching, basic ballet positions and steps, jumping, skipping, “song and dance” routines, and creative movement for three year olds. The focus is on listening, concentrating, following directions, and rhythmic movement. All of these things prepare the student for the study of ballet. They will not participate in our Annual Show. The class will run from September to March 4th.

COMBINATION PRE-BALLET & TAP

Combination classes are open to girls and boys, ages 4 through 7 years. Offers fundamental dance movement geared to the younger child’s emotional and physical development. Classes consist of a short fundamental barre and elementary exercises to strengthen the long muscles. Classes are designed to aid the students progress to the next level without damaging the developing bodies. 15 minutes of tap is included for rhythm.

CLASSICAL BALLET

Classical ballet is open to all students 8 years of age through adult. Classical Ballet is the fundamental core of dance education. The best of Cecchetti, russian, royal Academy of Dance, and Dance Masters of America syllabi are applied in graded classes according to ability and age level. Classes include barre, centre, adagio, and allegro movements. Stress is placed on timing and correct execution of all work within the prescribed age. All students are required to take ballet.

TAP

Tap is open to all 3rd grade students 8 years and older. The greatest rhythm builder known, tap will develop a quickness of step and precision in movement. The class consists of one hour of tap techniques and routines.

JAZZ

Jazz is open to all 2nd grade students, 7 years and older. Jazz dance is a form of dance that showcases a dancer’s individual style and originality. Every jazz dancer interprets and executes moves and steps in their own way. This type of dancing is energetic and fun, consisting of unique moves, fancy footwork, big leaps and quick turns. To excel in jazz, dancers need a strong background in ballet, as it encourages grace and balance.

POINTE

Pointe is open to students 10 years of age and older who have had at least two years of classical ballet technique and have achieved fundamental control of movement and strength. Students must have the consent of the director/teacher to participate in pointe classes. If your child is interested in registering for Beginner Pointe, please go ahead and register for this class through the parent portal. Please contact Anne Moore (annegravelymoore@comcast.net) to schedule an appointment for evaluation of your child. Appointments are available on July 28th and August 4th. If you registered for this class and your child is not found eligible, the registration fee will be transferred to your account for tuition payments.

CONTEMPORARY

Contemporary is open to students 5th grade and older. Contemporary is a compilation of different styles of dance, including lyrical, ballet and modern. The students will be encouraged to integrate their mind, body and spirit and connect themselves to their movements. This class will help them find an emotional connection with their dance rather than just dancing with the learned ballet lines and skills. Contemporary dance employs many modern dance techniques such as contract-release, fall and recovery, floor work, improvisation, and lifts.

SKILLS CLASSES

Skills class is offered in three levels for 3rd grade and older. This class is for the dedicated dancer who wants to take their technique to the next level. The curriculum focuses on developing a strong ballet foundation as well as improving flexibility, core strength and body alignment. There is also an emphasis on turns, leaps and advanced tricks. This class helps a dancer learn to think critically, become more confident, and pushes them to become a stronger and more well-rounded dancer. This class is required for all company members.

HIP HOP

Hip Hop dance evolved from the iconic street styles known as breaking, popping and locking.  Today, it is one of the most recognized and versatile styles of dance and a fan favorite of many dancers, old and new.  This class will offer your dancer more than fun vibes and good beats.  Hip hop dance teaches a sense of culture and history, versatility and freedom to openly express big emotions in a positive way.  Class will include with a warm-up,  fun progressions, combinations of different styles and freestyle dance.  Sweats, shorts, t-shirts and hats may be worn to class.

ADULT JAZZ

This class is for ladies and will consist of a cardio dance warmup, stretching, simple progressions and a fun combination. No prior experience required! Dress Code: Jazz or Yoga pants and t-shirts. Leotards are not required! Be comfortable and ready to move. Jazz shoes are required.

TUMBLING (New in 2022!)

Tumbling is a genre of gymnastics that utilizes the skills of artistic gymnastics on the floor. Our 45 minute class will include a warm up then drill and skill circuits with spotting. As students progress, they will learn tumbling skills and connective forward and backward elements such as handstand variations, rolls, round offs, cartwheels, ariels, handsprings, walkovers and more. Students will gain strength, flexibility, coordination, power and agility through repetition of skills.Tumbling classes will not perform in our annual show.  Girls will wear leotards with dance shorts or athletic shorts. Full coverage leotards, no bare midriff. Leggings are optional. Boys will wear plain black gym shorts and a plain white, tucked in tshirt (not baggy). Everyone must have bare feet. Hair must be in a ponytail or clipped away from the face and off the shoulders. No hair beads, bows or other hair accessories that may cause discomfort during activity. No jewelry with the exception of small stud earrings with secure earring backs. No chewing gum.