American Ballet School

Participants in this program can vary widely in age and skill level. They are interested in a casual exposure to Ballet and other dance styles. They are interested in a physically active program with a purpose. They want to experience the art in a gentle way. For the younger students this might be their first exposure to dance. For the older students this could be a part of a general exercise program. There may be opportunities for these students to perform on stage.  There are three distinct areas in the Recreational Program determined largly by age. Details of these programs can be viewed below

Children; Kindergarten through 2nd grade
Youth; 3rd through 10th grade &
Adult; 11th grade through adult with no upper age limit.

Curriculum; The training follows the traditional dance curriculum based on the teaching of high quality dance technique,  for a variety of dance styles. We do not offer combination classes. The teaching and content will be age appropriate. Training will advance at a slower pace than the intensive Program. This program provides basic exposure to the world of dance.

Participants; All children in this age group in the school are in this program. For some this a Pre-Ballet or a Pre-Jazz Program. These students will select the Intensive Program when they enter the 3rd grade. Other students will choose to continue in the Recreational -Youth Program when they enter the 3rd grade. The pre-intensive students are encouraged to focus on ballet. Other students have greater flexibility in their selection of classes.

Characteristics or Requirements

• Ages; Kindergarten through 2nd grade, (ages 5 through 7 years old).
• Admission to the program is open. No prior dance training or experience is required.
• Class; One 45 minute class per week. Additional classes can be taken but are not required.
• Class Size; Classes are limited to 18 students per class.
• Dance Styles; Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Hip-Hop

Participants; Almost everyone begins dance instruction in this program; Recreational dancers as well as those anticipating a more intensive course of study. There is a range of skill levels; Beginners and advancing beginners. People taking dance for the 1st time, People chosing dance as a form of exercise.

Characteristics or Requirements

• Age; 3rd grade thru 10th grade, (Ages 8 through 15 years old) .
• Admission to the program is open. No prior dance training or experience is required.
• Class; One 45 or 60 minute class per week. More classes can be taken by choice.
• Curriculum; Classes at different levels teaching the basics of Ballet or other dance forms. Advancement is possible, but probably slowly.
• Dance Styles; Ballet and Jazz Etc, (Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop and Lyrical). A student can study a variety of dance styles. However, we do not offer combination classes.
• Performance; All students can participate in the Nutcracker and the Spring Recital, though not all do. 
• Calender; Classes begin each semester. A student may be able to join a class in progress based on class availability and experience of the student.

Participants possess a range of skill levels from beginner to advanced. In this program, the student's motivation and goals may vary widely; This program includes those taking dance for the 1st time, those choosing dance as an exercise program, those who studied dance, maybe intensively as a child, and wish to maintain their skills.... They want to advance, but not necessarily perform.

Characteristics or Requirements

• Age; 11th grade through adult (with no upper limit)
• Admission to the program is open. No prior dance training or experience is required.
• Class; One or more, 60 minute classes per week. 
• Class Size; Varies based on class availability 
• Dress; Traditional dance ware or loose fitting athletic clothing is acceptable. It is important that arms and legs be exposed.
• Dance Styles; Ballet and Theater Dance, (Jazz, Tap and Lyrical). Popular dance forms such as Flamenco, Ballroom, Hip Hop... May be available from time to time, based on demand. More than one dance style can be sellected. However we do not offer combination classes.
• Performance; Some classes will have recitals, some will not. Selected students might have character roles in school produtionts.
• Payment is monthly based on the number of classes per week, in advance.