Our classes challenge each student while maintaining enjoyment of learning and FUN! The following is a brief description of our classes along with the minimum ages and class requirements.  

 

Ballet (Ages 6 & up)

A codified, classical form of dance with specific terminology and exercises danced to classical music.  Our curriculum is based on the Cecchetti Method with influence of Vaganova, Bournonville, and Royal Academy of Dance.  Students develop poise, proper placement, balance, flexibility and coordination as well as knowledge of anatomy & ballet vocabulary.  Classes include traditional barre, center, adage and allegro.  Ballet is the foundation of many forms of dance and an accomplished level of study is necessary to excel in jazz and modern. 

Students in Levels 3 & up have the option of participating in accredited examinations through the Cecchetti Council of America to test the student's proficiency within each level.

 

Jazz (Ages 6 & up)

A very popular dance form encompassing various styles. One kind of jazz dance is lyrical with fluid movements; another is more percussive, with accented beats and body isolation movements, danced to popular music.  Broadway (musical theater) dance and vernacular dance (popular dances of particular time periods) are included in this category.  Classes include warm-up, center barre, exercises to develop strength and flexibility, progressions and center combinations.  Enrollment in ballet is required (except for Beg. Jazz A & B, and Teen Levels).

 

Jumps & Turns (Ages 11 & up)

This class builds on our jazz curriculum and focuses on the many jumps, turns & leaps commonly used in jazz and dance team (poms). The class follows the same format as our jazz classes minus center combinations. The first part of class is dedicated to technique, stretching and conditioning while the second half will focus on improving jumping and turning skills. Enrollment in Ballet and Jazz is required (High school dance team members are waived from this requirement).

 

Hip Hop (Ages 8 & up)

A fairly recent development in dance that started on the streets of big cities and is now commonly performed in music videos, TV commercials and concerts.  Classes are taught with use of popular music: hip-hop, pop, and R & B.  The latest in the hip-hop, pop and dance scene come together in this fun and energetic class! Placement is based on age.

 

Modern (Ages 11 & up)

An ever-evolving dance form that is taught and performed in bare feet. Our curriculum is based on an amalgamation of styles and techniques from modern dance pioneers such as Martha Graham, José Limón, and Merce Cunningham. Classes will focus on the use of the spine, asymmetry, rolls, floorwork, level changes and the dynamic use of energy in movement.  Recommended for ballet & jazz students.  Enrollment in ballet is required.  Note: companies are including more contemporary choreography into their repertory making modern training necessary.  

 

Tap (Ages 6 & up)

A popular American dance form in which metal taps are mounted on shoes and are used to make rhythmic sounds and patterns by striking the floor.  Various styles including Buck & Wing, Soft Shoe, Broadway and Jazz Tap are incorporated into our curriculum.  Classes include warm-up, skill development, progressions, center combinations and routines. Emphasis is placed on musicality and sound quality as well as developing proper technique and style, while having FUN! Dancers will learn history of tap as it pertains to class work

 

Pom/Dance Team Tech (Ages 12 & up)

In order to succeed in the highly competitive world of Pom/Dance Team, dancers must achieve an high level of dance technique. Pom technique/training is of equal importance! Participants learn and perfect pom/dance skills and gain confidence for future tryouts. Curriculum includes: arm placement drills, pom technique, jumps and turns, kickline technique, high-energy routines and group work/formations. Enrollment in Jazz & Jumps & Turns is highly recommended.

 

Vocal Performance (Ages 8 & up)

Classes focus on proper singing techniques, voice/diction, movement and dance. Music theory & history are incorporated in all classes. Each semester students will prepare 2-3 song/dance numbers from a famous musical. Students will be given performance opportunities throughout the year in the local community and at LPAA. Students who would like to have a speaking role should also enroll in our Musical Theatre Acting classes.

This class is great training for students who wish to perform in musical theatre productions! Placement is based on age. Students who are serious about vocal training are encouraged to take private voice lessons in addition to group classes. Enrollment in any dance class is recommended.

 

Musical Theatre Acting (Ages 8 & up)

Students will act and sing as they rehearse songs and scenes from a chosen musical.  This class gives students the opportunity to go through the process of working on a musical script from auditions to blocking scenes, learning acting techniques and song interpretation.   Auditions will determine the role given however, everyone will receive a role.  The show is presented at the culmination of the class. Students who would like to dance should also enroll in our Vocal Performance classes.

 

Pilates (Teen/Adult)

Pilates is a form of exercise created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s. It is a system of physical and mental conditioning. Benefits include: improved posture and balance, elimination of pain (muscular in nature), improved strength and flexibility, muscle tone, and feeling more energetic. Each 1hr class will have the option of using props and will include at most 10 min. of stretching & always 5 min. of relaxation.

 

Pilates Mat Workout will focus on a full-body program designed by Joseph Pilates to restore muscular balance and flexibility. All moves will stem from the core, with incredible focus on breathe. Mats are provided, please bring a towel and water to class (if desired).