Divisions

Little Dancers Ages 3-8

Le Studio, like most professional studios, does not teach formalized classical ballet to children under the age of eight. Before this age the physical and mental rigors of ballet are usually too demanding.

The Pre-Dance class for ages 3-6 is designed to introduce young children to the joys of movement by exploring and expanding their movement range. Building coordination, strength, flexibility, and balance in combination with musical exercises are some of the primary objectives of the class.

Pre-Ballet for ages 6 to 8 is an introduction to the formalized structure and discipline of ballet class, barre work, and the French vocabulary.

Tap/Jazz for ages 5 to 8 is an alternative to the pre-dance and pre-ballet classes, and is an introduction to basic tap, rhythm steps, and free style movements danced to today's music.

Student Divison  Ages 9-19

Classical Ballet, beginning at 8 years, is offered to those mature enough to begin learning the fundamentals upon which almost all theatrical dance is based. Le Studio's ballet syllabus is truly American, taking the best of the Russian (Vaganova), French, Italian (Cecchetti), Danish (Bournoville) and English systems. The student follows this carefully structured syllabus in accordance with his or her own physical and mental development.

Advancement is made by ability and not necessarily by age. If the student attends all the suggested classes listed for his or her level, advancement to the next level will usually occur in one year. After four years of study girls usually begin pointe technique.

Because the accomplished ballet dancer performs not only the classics, but modern and contemporary works as well, jazz, modern and tap classes are encouraged. Those students interested in pursuing jazz or musical theatre, it is important to recognize that a sound background in ballet technique is an asset.

Adult Divison  Ages 13 +

The adult division offers a wide variety of classes for those who simply want to begin or continue training for health, recreation, and self-enrichment. Classes include ballet, jazz, tap, flamenco, hip-hop, Pilates body conditioning and other disciplines.

Classes are specifically designed for those from late teens to mid 60's, from absolute beginners through to those who have danced all their lives. Many adults in our program have returned after an absence of many years, while others have harbored a secret desire to dance and yet never stepped foot inside a ballet studio.

Most students wear leotards, tights and ballet or jazz shoes. However, in order to sample a class, one can initially wear something comfortable to move in such as sweat pants and heavy socks.