Music & Movement (3-4 yrs)
This fun, 30-minute class introduces children to the basics of movement and music. Children will learn about following directions, staying with the beat of the music, and exploring their creativity. Parents will join their dancer for the first 15 minutes.
Creative Dance & Tumbling (4-6 yrs)
Creative Dance & Tumbling is a great beginning and introduction to dance and tumbling. This class explores the basics of ballet & movement such as skipping, galloping and other locomotive movements through imagination and creativity. Exercises for stretch and strength as well as beginning tumbling are included. Steady beat and musicality are emphasized while dancers learn and grow in a nurturing environment each week.
Pre-Ballet & Tumbling (Kindergarten & 1st grade)
Pre-Ballet & Tumbling builds on the foundation taught in Creative Dance & Tumbling and includes a heavier emphasis on ballet. Self-expression and fun are key components, though attention and ability to follow directions is expected. Students in these classes are also able to remember a slightly more complex combination of movements. Dancers will continue tumbling and work on cartwheels, somersaults, and more.
Ballet & Movement I-III (1st-3rd gr. approx)
These classes emphasize beginning ballet steps, technique, proper placement, and posture. Dancers who attend regularly will see great improvement each year and build their repertoire of ballet steps. Classes also include folk dancing, tumbling, general creative movement work, and an introduction to ballet stories.
Ballet IV-VIII (4th gr. & up)
These intermediate and advanced ballet classes will follow a progressive program from Elementary through high school and beyond. Students are placed by ability (not age or grade) to provide the best learning situation and opportunity for success. Dancers learn technique and variations through barre work, adagio, petite allegro, grand allegro, turns, and more. Dancers in ballet VI-VIII typically take (and are encouraged) to take 2-4 times per week.
Pointe (12 yrs & up)
Pointe students are typically aged 12 & up, must take at least 2 VDS ballet classes per week for strength, and must be recommended by the teacher. Pointe is the part of classical ballet technique in which a dancer supports all body weight on the tips of full extended feet within pointe shoes. Ankle strength, strong core muscles, and maintaining turn out are key components for pointe.
Tap (1st gr. & up)
Tap is a form of dance characterized by using the sounds of tap shoes striking the floor as a form of percussion. VDS offers classes for students beginning tap classes all the way thru Intermediate and Advanced tap. Most tap students also take ballet classes as they have a better foundation and are more successful in their tap class. Developmentally age 7 years or 1st grade is the best time to begin studying this form of dance.
Musical Theatre & Jazz I & II (8-16 yrs)
Musical Theatre & Jazz is a fun way to relax and enjoy dance while working on basic posture, rhythm, movement, and preparation for Show Choir, jazz, performing, and more. Classes are offered for students in 3rd grade or higher and incorporate props in to many of the dances. Styles from popular musicals, classic musicals, and everything in between are taught. Students will build a foundation for future success in performing while gaining self-confidence and maturity.
Dance Fusion
Dance Fusion is for dancers enrolled in Ballet IV & V. It provides the dancer with exposure to a number of different dance styles in one class. Dancers enjoy learning modern, jazz, and character while building confidence and exploring movement. Many Ballet IV & V dancers enjoy the 30 minute break between ballet and dance fusion where they social and eat dinner together. This is a great chance to make new friends and build your dance knowledge.
Jazz (V-VIII)
Intermediate & Advanced Jazz classes are offered for students in 5th grade or higher. Classes use today's popular, yet appropriate music while teaching jazz technique. Jazz is a great class for students to discover their individual style while having fun. Students are encouraged to have taken a year of ballet or be enrolled in ballet, but are not required. Previous dance experience is necessary for Jazz levels V-VIII.
Hip Hop
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Hip Hop dance is a street style primarily performed to hip-hop music or music that evolved as part of hip-hop culture. Hip Hop includes a wide range of styles such as breaking, locking, popping, jazz, and more. All music and movements are age appropriate. Most intermediate and advanced hip hop students are also enrolled in ballet or jazz classes, although not required.
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Modern Dance (10 yrs & up)
Modern Dance is an expressive style of dance that breaks the molds and boundaries expected in ballet. Modern explores other movements, angles, and the energy our bodies have. Dancers will learn new ways to use their bodies, methods for partnering, and more. Most intermediate and advanced modern students are also enrolled in ballet classes, although not required.
Cardio Dance
Cardio Dance is the perfect combination of fun and fitness! This high energy and spunky workout is great for teens and adults alike. Upbeat music and constant movement make this class fly by! No dance experience necessary.
