Dance
Classical ballet and modern are the basis for dance education at Dancing Arts Academy. Variation, Jazz, Character, Improvisation, and Choreography classes are optionally available during after-academy hours.
The Vaganova syllabus from Russia, the Royal Academy of Dancing (RAD) syllabus from England, the Checcetti method, and the Bournonville style combine to form the unique basis for the classical ballet curriculum. Essential to the technique of ballet is the development of the body as an instrument of expression. Barre combinations develop student strength and flexibility through traditional skills. Equally important are the center patterns and progressions through which students extend their discipline and improve their placement and control. Pointe work and classical repertoire is reserved for deserving students at the instructor's discretion.
The modern curriculum is eclectic and draws from the styles and philosophies of Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham, Jose Limon, and Lester Horton. The modern warm-up, progressions, and combinations are interesting and challenging, and are learned through creative improvisations and technical development. The focus of modern dance is on exploring traditional phrases, new images of sequences, and clarifying movement quality, direction, and dynamics.
Evaluation
Faculty-written dance evaluations will be distributed in January and June. Students will be required to maintain a detailed journal to accurately assess their own work. Teachers will review the students' dance journals and conference with their parents in November and March.
