The Center, now in its 30th year, hosts more than 300 students annually and offers a wide variety of dance training to all ages. Classes are designed to promote strength, flexibility, and technique for the appropriate level and age of the student. From those who dance for exercise or for the love of dance to those dancing at the professional level, the Center for Ballet Arts provides a well-rounded curriculum and a pleasant encouraging environment for dance training.
PRE-BALLET
Introduces the 3- or 4-year-old to the world of dance. Fifteen minutes of introductory tap is combined with 45 minutes of ballet. Classes are designed to encourage a relationship to music using creative movement and some elementary ballet vocabulary. Props are used to stimulate the imagination.
KINDERBALLET
Similar to the structure of Pre-ballet, this class is for children 5 years or older and lends more emphasis to the basics of ballet. Fifteen minutes of introductory tap is combined with 45 minutes of ballet.
BALLET I-V
These classes provide a structured ballet barre, appropriate stretching exercises, and work in center to promote technique, strength, and flexibility. The Center focuses on coordination, musicality, and performance quality. Students in Ballet II and higher are encouraged to attend two classes weekly. Adult Ballet class is available weekly.
POINTE
Pointe work is not offered before age 11, nor before a student has studied ballet for at least 3 years. Exceptions may be made only at the discretion of the instructor. At the Ballet III level, students may be introduced to pointe work for the last 15 minutes of class. At age of 11 or 12, pointe work is given in one half-hour lesson per week, following a regular ballet class. Intermediate and Advanced level pointe classes are 45 to 90 minutes. All students studying pointe are required to attend class twice weekly.
TAP
Tap dance classes are offered for students of all ages with an emphasis on Broadway tap. Pre-ballet and Kinderballet students are introduced to 15 minutes of tap dance each week, and older students may continue with 30-60 minute classes depending on age and level. Adult Tap class is available weekly.
JAZZ
An American dance style pioneered by African American dancers in the early 20th century. Children may begin studying jazz at age 8, and at least one year of ballet experience is encouraged. We suggest that they continue to study ballet to provide the necessary form and technique.
MODERN
Modern dance introduces students to non-traditional dance forms, with emphasis on technique. Class is taken barefoot, using a diversity of music, and includes acting and improvisational skills. Students are introduced to a variety of styles including Graham, Horton, and Limon. Modern is avaliable for students 9 years or older.
CONDITIONING
Body conditioning that emphasizes strengthening “the core” muscle groups. Mat classes are offered twice weekly.