YOUTH DIVISION
Our Youth Division is designed for dancers ages 5-11 who are ready to begin learning the fundamentals of classical ballet or continue their training in a fun and encouraging environment.
beginning BALLET (ages 5-8)
The beginner class establishes the fundamentals of classical ballet. Class focuses on basic ballet technique, flexibility, proper body alignment, French terminology and musicality. Students will be introduced to elementary barre and center work, taking class twice per week, which is necessary for learning and progressing.
Intermediate BALLET (ages 8-11)
The intermediate class focuses on positions of the arms, direction of the body and increased movement vocabulary, proper body alignment, and muscle awareness. As the dancer matures attention is paid to the proper extension of the legs, turnout and shape of the feet, developing movement sequences, port de bras, flexibility and balance. Dancers will see an increase in difficulty in barre and center work and are able to properly perform steps such as pas de chats, changement, jeté, glissade, assemblé and single pirouettes in center. Dancers begin wearing pre-pointe shoes (older dancers may be en pointe) to strengthen their feet for pointe work and take class 2 to 3 times per week.
PERFORM WITH US
All Youth Division dancers are invited to perform in Metropolitan Ballet’s full-length production of the Nutcracker with the Kenwood Symphony Orchestra. There may also be opportunities to perform in other ballets during the season.
Dress code: girls are to wear a black leotard, pink tights and pink leather slippers. Please pull hair back into a bun. Boys are to wear a white t-shirt, black tights and black leather slippers.
Private Master Classes: Dancers interested in preparing for a ballet competition or needing assistance setting choreography can arrange for private master classes. Athletes, especially skaters and gymnasts, who are looking to improve balance, coordination and strength will also benefit from ballet training. Contact us to learn more.