South Boston 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 August to February.

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.

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.

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 (info@themeredithgravelyschoolofdance.com) to schedule an appointment for evaluation of your child. Appointments are available on July 29th in South Boston, or August 5th or August 7th at our Danville Studio. 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.