INTRO TO DANCE SERIES

Our Introduction to Dance Technique series is an ideal way for the adult dancer to learn the basics of dance technique, terminology, and motion.  For the individual who is new to movement, we recommend our Introduction to the 4 Elements of Dance class and/or our Introduction to Dance Technique class.  Both classes are excellent precursors to any further study in dance.  Our Introduction to Dance Series classes in ballet, jazz, modern, and hip hop give students excellent foundations in the basic study of each discipline.  Offered each semester, our Intro to Dance Series classes will give students the necessary skill sets to attend our drop-in classes in ballet, jazz, modern and hip hop with a greater level of success and accomplishment.

Introduction to Dance Technique
An introduction to the fundamental styles of dance in ballet, modern and jazz dance.  This class is designed for students new to dance. Learn the positions of the feet and arms, as well as establish proper alignment and turnout. Students will also learn basic dance vocabulary. This is a great introduction to dance for those who want to learn or review the fundamentals of dance technique or for students transitioning from other of types of movement studies. Each five week session will be a review of the same material.  This class can be taken concurrently or consecutively with our any of our other Intro to Dance Series classes. 

Introduction to African Dance
Find your energy in this introductory class!! This class will get you moving and expose you to the rich African dance experience. Students will learn fundamental movements common to the vast body of dances from the African Diaspora.

Introduction to Ballet Technique
This ballet enrollment class introduces the fundamental principles of Ballet and will build week to week. Basic positions of the feet and arms, proper alignment, ballet vocabulary, barre exercises and center work will be taught and reviewed in depth. This class will break down the steps and provide students with exercises that build strength, increase flexibility and provide a foundation that can be applied to all dance styles. While no previous dance experience is necessary, students are encouraged to take
Introduction to Dance Technique and/or Introduction to the 4 Elements of Dance prior to enrolling.

Introduction to Breakdancing
Intro to Breakdancing (b-boy/b-girl) was designed to educate beginners on the foundation and basic movement of the b-boy/b-girl culture. To encompass both the dance and the individuality of this urban dance style, the class will incorporate the fundamentals of top-rocking, footwork and freezes, along with training in basic cardio, muscular strength and flexibility. The class will also prepare the new dancer for advanced work with other b-boys and b-girls, by giving detailed information about the history and culture of this popular dance form. Intro to Breakdancing (b-boy/b-girl) is recommended before taking the Beg. 2 class for students with no prior experience in break-dance.

Introduction to Jazz Technique
Students will learn about the history and evolution of jazz dance as we know it today and will learn movement that is in pace with today but rooted in the traditions of yesterday.  This class will expose students to three jazz styles – blues, lyrical and classic jazz dance.  Class will focus on teaching basic body isolations of the head, shoulders, ribcage, feet and arms and will layer jazz style over the traditional technique of ballet.  Students will master basic jazz steps including kick ball change, step ball change and jazz runs.  Emphasis will be placed on developing rhythmic awareness individual expression and the use of the body as rhythmic percussive instrument.  While no previous dance experience is necessary, students are encouraged to take Introduction to Dance Technique and/or Introduction to the 4 Elements of Dance prior to enrolling.

Introduction to Modern Dance Technique
This Modern dance enrollment class introduces the fundamental principles of Modern dance and will build week to week. Basic movement concepts such as over curve/under curve and contraction/release of the torso, articulation of the spine, and modern dance vocabulary will be taught and reviewed in depth. Class will also focus on proper alignment, musicality, and center work. This class will break down the movement and provide students with exercises that build strength, increase flexibility and provide a foundation that can be applied to all dance styles. While no previous dance experience is necessary, students are encouraged to take Introduction to Dance Technique and/or Introduction to the 4 Elements of Dance prior to enrolling.

Introduction to Hip Hop 
Students will complete this class equipped with knowledge of Hip Hop history and culture, which are the spine of the dance form.  Students will gain a valuable understanding and appreciation of the improvisational nature of this dance form while learning basic movements and terminology.  Throughout the session, the class will examine different manifestations of this dance form -- breaking, popping and locking, house, and fusion -- while equipping students with the fundamentals of each style.  While no previous training is required, classes will use basic body isolations found in other technique classes.  This class will break down steps and technique and also emphasize bringing style and personality to the movement...Hip Hop is never done small and students will be encouraged to step outside of the box and dance big.  While no previous dance experience is necessary, students are encouraged to take Introduction to Dance Technique and/or Introduction to the 4 Elements of Dance prior to enrolling.

Introduction to Turns
Enhance your overall turning technique in any dance form with this 5-week class that will help take the mystery out of performing good turns. Emphasis will be placed on cleanly executing single turns. Beginning with a warm-up that incorporates skills needed for good turns, class will progress to exercises across the floor and center combinations that emphasize good technique and form.  This class is the perfect compliment to the study of ballet, jazz, or modern.

Introduction to Leaps
Increase your movement vocabulary and proficiency with all types of leaps. This 5-week class will focus on providing students with the missing elements of technique to take their leaps to a higher level! Class will consist of a warm-up that incorporates skills needed for technically sound leaps plus exercises across the floor and center combinations that emphasize the proper approach and form for leaps.  This class is the perfect compliment to the study of ballet, jazz, or modern.

Turns & Leaps, Intermediate/Advanced
Develop and hone your turns, jumps, and leaps in this advanced skills class. Students will learn warm-ups, skills, and drills that help dancers turn better, leap quicker, and jump higher. This class is excellent to help dancers prepare for auditions.