Curriculum & Dress Code

Creative Movement, Age 3 - Pre-ballet/creative dance class (no tap). An introduction to dance using music, singing, props, instruments, stories and creativity to activate the imagination, increase body awareness, enhance socialization and establish a sense of joy through movement. Light pink leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes. Pink ballet skirt optional. This class does not perform in the annual Revue.

Combination Classes, Ages 4-7 - Age-appropriate technique in ballet and tap. 7 year old combo includes pre-jazz. Students will learn steps and movement sequences, while continuing to enhance awareness and creativity. Light pink leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, and black patent leather tap shoes (maryjanes) that either tie or have snap closures. Black leather jazz shoes for age 7 pre-jazz. Pink ballet skirt optional.

Ballet – Classical technique is taught with the emphasis on proper body, foot, and arm placement. As a student progresses, more complicated combinations, turns, and leaps are included. Solid colored leotard, pink tights, and pink ballet shoes. We recommend a canvas ballet shoe for Ballet III and above. Ballet is required for students who wish to take jazz (up through age nine.). Ballet IV or higher is required for modern and Ballet V or higher is required for lyrical.

Pre-Pointe – A mandatory precursor to pointe with an emphasis on strength, placement, and balance to prepare the dancer for pointe work. Pre-pointe is traditionally taken in conjunction with Ballet III. This class does not perform in the annual Revue. Solid colored leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes. Teacher will decide if student is ready to purchase pointe shoes.

Pointe - By invitation only and must also be enrolled in a ballet class. Emphasizes proper placement, correct usage of pointe shoes in cooperation with entire body, and sequential progression of technique. Solid colored leotard, pink tights, and pointe shoes.

Tap - Emphasis placed on clarity of sounds, rhythm, timing, coordination and style. Any color leotard and tights or dance top/shorts. Jazz pants may be worn if they are tight around the knees. Black leather oxford tap shoes.

Jazz - Stylized movement with an emphasis on lines and strength. Classes include stretching/conditioning, walks, turns, extensions, across-the-floor patterns, and combinations. 7 year old students begin pre-jazz with their ballet/tap combo. Ballet is required for students who wish to take jazz (up through age nine.) Any color leotard and tights or dance top/shorts. Jazz pants may be worn if they are tight around the knees. Black leather jazz shoes required for 7 & 8 year old jazz and for Jazz I & II. Tan foot undeez acceptable for Jazz III and above.

Lyrical - A combination of ballet and jazz including contemporary elements with an emphasis on expressivity. Must be enrolled in Ballet V or higher. Any color leotard and tights or dance top/shorts. Jazz pants may be worn if they are tight around the knees. Tan foot undeez.

Modern – Learn elements from many contemporary styles and methods. Focuses include weight, isolation, suspension, contract/release, and basic human movement. Students will be exposed to a variety of techniques including Bartenieff Fundamentals, Cunningham, Limon, and others. Through committed experimentation, students will push their boundaries of expression through movement and improvisation. Must be enrolled in Ballet IV or higher. No shoes.

Hip-Hop – Fun, energetic style derived from a variety of street and other popular forms to upbeat, age-appropriate music. Must be 8 years old to begin hip-hop. Loose-fitting top and shorts/pants. Light-soled tennis shoes.

Acro - Students will be introduced to flexibility and conditioning skills to prepare for acrobatics. Certain skills must be accomplished before learning advanced tumbling to ensure student safety. Solid colored leotard and tan stirrup or footless tights. Must also be enrolled in ballet.

Boys - Dress Code: Tank top or t-shirt, dance pants/shorts, and appropriate shoes.

Beginners & Adults – Separate classes may be offered for beginners and adults in various disciplines. Contact us to be put on an interest list.

Yoga & Pilates - For class schedules and rates, contact Instructor Gilson Lincoln directly at 434-384-2682.

For ballroom classes and other social dance, we suggest VA Dance Studio at 1129 Thomas Jefferson Road in Forest, VA. 434-525-9410. http://www.vadance.com

For your dancewear needs, we recommend Carolina Connection at 18478 Forest Road in Forest, VA 24551. 434-846-5099. www.CarolinaConnectionDance.com

Proper attire aids in learning and performance and allows teachers to effectively view alignment and turnout.

All hair must be secured away from the face.
Hair must be in a bun for ballet and pointe classes.
No t-shirts or loose pants allowed.
Students who are not dressed properly will be required to observe.