Classical Ballet

Classical Ballet is renowned for its grace, beauty and technical attributes such as turn out of the legs and pointe work. The techniques found in classical ballet are a framework for many other styles of dance. We train our students in ballet technique using the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus. The RAD is an international examining and teacher training organisation for classical ballet where the syllabus has been designed to be progressive and safe with a balanced study of technique, music and performance.

Dance Play

Dance Play has been designed for children aged 3 to 4 years where we look at the principles of movement with our bodies to explore and interpret feelings, ideas and the imagination. Starting with simple movements to isolate different parts of the body and then mixing sequences of movements to achieve basic co-ordination, body awareness as well as musicality and rhythm. With the use of mime and expression the children learn to associate with sight, sound, touch, smell and taste – the 5 senses. These become important concepts as they develop the skill of interaction with other children and respect for each other’s creative space.

RAD Pre Primary in Dance, RAD Primary in Dance, Preparatory

Pre Primary in Dance continues on from Dance Play, the syllabus prepares students for a successful transition to ballet and other dance genres at higher levels. In both Pre-Primary in Dance and Primary in Dance, students, through participation and practice will be develop physical skills, stamina, creativity, expression and musicality using a range of sounds and musical styles. Preparatory is a consolidation year where students are prepared for entry into Grade 1 and the possibility of entry into examinations

RAD Grades 1 to 8

Grades 1 through to 8 encourage the development of an appropriate and sound technique relevant for the ballet world of today. The syllabus identifies the necessary skills that underpin secure technique such as core stability, weight placement, turnout and line, while continuing to recognise and reward the student’s awareness of artistry and dynamics. Musically inspired exercises and dances promote joy in movement, creative interpretation, and a sense of dance and performance quality.

They also constitute a preparation for the RAD Vocational Syllabus.

RAD Vocational Grades

The RAD vocational syllabus is the continuation of classical ballet from the graded syllabus with the introduction of Pointe work for girls. The work associated with each examination signifies a further set of stages in helping young students develop a greater understanding and performance of classical ballet. It is designed to give the necessary vocational training to students wishing to study dance as a career or dance related subjects.

Jazz

Jazz originated in the 1950’s and has grown to incorporate various styles from the rock and roll of the 50’s, disco in the 70’s right through to the hip hop funk seen in today’s video clips. With predominately strong, sharp movements choreographed to upbeat music, Jazz is a fun and exciting dance style. To help with the technical skills required of this dance style it is recommended that students also attend ballet classes.

Contemporary

Contemporary dance is a form of dance which focuses on the serious expression of inner emotions, using a free-flowing, interpretive style, rather than following the rigid rules characteristic of many dance disciplines. Many of its concepts come from the ideas and innovations of 20th century modern dance, including floorwork and turn-in of the legs.