Ballet (RAD)

We follow the method of the internationally recognized Royal Academy of Dance.  Students learn the fundamentals of classical ballet, free movement and character.  There is also the opportunity for exams and assessments.  Ages are a guideline only.

Creative Dance for Boys and Girls – ages 3

Classes are 45 minutes in duration and consist of creative movement with structured exercises. 

Pre-School ballet – ages 4 – 5 (Pre School)

Classes are 45 minutes in duration and consist of beginning pre-ballet steps and exercises.  Co-ordination, flexibility and strength are emphasized as well as imagination and musicality.  Props are used.

Pre-Primary ballet – ages 5 – 6 (Kindergarten)

Classes are one hour in duration.  This is a transition class from “fantasy” to more serious technique levels.  Students are introduced to french ballet terminology.  Imagination and props are used.

Primary – Grade 2 ballet – ages 6 – 9 (Grades 1-4)

Classes are one hour in duration and students are required to attend two classes a week at their level (once a week for Primary students progressing to twice a week in the 3rd Quarter to prepare for ballet exams).  Students are introduced to the structure of a classical ballet class as well as character dance and free movement.

Grade 3 – 5 ballet – ages 9+ (Grades 4+)

Classes are one hour in duration and students are required to attend 2 classes per week at their level. These are fundamental ballet technique classes.  Each class consists of barre, centre, free movement and character work.  These classes are designed to improve students’ strength, flexibility and posture.  Rhythm, co ordination and confidence are other areas of development.

Higher Grades ballet – ages 12+ (Grades 7+)

Classes are one hour to one and a half hours in duration and students are required to attend 2 classes per week at their level. This syllabus is based on the Romantic Era of ballet and is very stylized.  Students continue to progress with free movement and character.

Vocational ballet – ages 12+ (Grades 7+)

This is the route of the more serious students.  Technique, flexibility and strength are greatly emphasized.  Students can expect to spend one to three years at any level to allow for progress. 

Pointe Class

Classes are a half hour in duration and students should attend at least 2 regular ballet classes a week.  Typically a student is between 10 and 12 years old when she starts pointe, this is at the discretion of the teacher.

Ballet for Jazz – ages12+

Classes are one hour in duration.  This class is designed for students in competitive jazz classes requiring a ballet back ground.  This class is also appropriate for beginners ages 12 and over.

Ballet Competitive 1 & 2 – ages 8-11, 12-14

These classes are 30 to 45 minutes in duration.  Students must audition for these classes.  Ballet choreography for competition is worked on only.