CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
RAD CLASSICAL BALLET
Classical classes at Ecole cover the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus and open work in a friendly, caring environment and are kept relatively small and individual attention is given at all times. Classical ballet is the basis of all styles of theatrical dance and assists students by developing their balance, co-ordination, flexibility and muscular strength as well as developing other qualities and abilities that have very practical applications, such as grace, poise and balance in gesture and movement.
Senior Classical students are taught various Repertoire choreography from the world's famous ballets. Repertoire classes prepare dancers for productions that they will perform in companies.
TEEN INTERMEDIATE BALLET
Our Teen Intermediate Ballet class is suitable for intermediate level students, as exercises will be modified for individual levels of ability. Prior ballet experience is required. These classes are based on the RAD syllabus and have one class per week. They are a non Exam class and there is no pointe work done in this class.
LYRICAL & CONTEMPORARY
Lyrical dance is expressive, simultaneously subtle and dynamic, focused on conveying musicality and emotion through movement. It encourages self expression, natural movement and personal interpretation and combines the many technical elements of ballet with the freedom, fluidity and expressiveness.
Contemporary dance is an important and enjoyable style of dance helping to develop strength, flexibility and creating a strong contrast to classical ballet. There are many different styles of contemporary dance and teachers focus on various elements including floorwork, exercises and choreography. All classical ballet dancers now have to have a knowledge of contemporary dance as many classical ballet choreographers use this style of movement within their ballets.
JAZZ
Jazz is a great way for children to express themselves and develop confidence. Our jazz classes are catered to students who have a strong desire to dance and above all have fun. Classes begin with a warm up, focusing on technique, flexibility, co ordination and strength, followed by progressions and combinations. Students also learn fundamental jazz steps and vocabulary. All classes are catered to each age group with age appropriate movements and music.
JAZZ EXTENSION
Our Advanced Jazz Classes (by invitation) are designed for students who are looking to push their existing jazz technique to the next level and are hungry for a challenge! In this class, students will learn advanced jazz skills, including advanced kicks, leaps, turns and acrobatic tricks. Students will also be challenged to learn and execute more advanced choreography in a fast-paced environment. These classes will build upon the foundations that students learn and train in their normal jazz class, and are designed to complement and act as an extension to their normal jazz class.
CHORUS HEELS
Chorus Heels are a type of dance shoe with a small high heel that are worn by dancers in professional Musical Theatre and Jazz productions all around the world. This class is a fun and exciting opportunity for our Senior students to challenge their existing jazz training and be exposed to the world of traditional jazz and musical theatre. In our Chorus Heel classes, students will have the opportunity to learn the foundations of dancing in chorus heels, including learning important skills such as basic weight placement, locomotive movements and simple jumps and turns. Students will be challenged to translate their existing jazz technique onto an unstable surface (their chorus heels), improving their lower body and core strength. Students will also be introduced to a unique style of movement focusing on traditional jazz and musical theatre movements and shapes.
