In this class, students learn and build on basic terminology while developing fundamental ballet and tap skills. Activities that improve flexibility and strength are included. Students will have fun and gain confidence as they achieve the foundation for a more focused dance education. Students in the younger age range registering for this class should have at least 1 to 2 years experience. 

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights or leggings, ballet shoes. Skirts are optional. Longer hair should be pulled back. in a ponytail  or with a headband. Black tap shoes.

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.

Before becoming a “precious gem,” this introductory dance movement class is where our youngest students begin. The class includes simple stretching, development of gross motor skills and pre-ballet activities. The use of fun imagery and positive feedback in a nurturing environment is emphasized. Students should participate in this class for a minimum of 9 to 12 months before registering in a precious gem combination class depending on age and progress.

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights or leggings, pink or flesh tone ballet shoes. Skirts are optional. Long hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or with a headband.

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.

As the first step of the precious gems progression, this class introduces basic ballet and tap skills and includes activities that develop strength and coordination in a fun, nurturing environment. Movement games that encourage self-expression and promote a positive, joyful dance experience are built into the class.  Participation in Dance Explorers for at least 9 to 12 months prior to registering for Emerald is strongly recommended for students aged 4 with no dance experience. 

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights or leggings, ballet shoes. Skirts are optional. Longer hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or headband.  Black tap shoes.

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.

This is a fun class for our very young dancers who want to make some noise as they learn  introductory tap skills and work on gross motor movements. Students should participate in this class for a minimum of 9 to 12 months before registering in a precious gem combination class depending on age and progress. 

Attire: leotard, tights or leggings or loose fitting clothing, black tap shoes

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.

This class is for students with little to no dance experience or those starting out at an age beyond the elementary school age. Focus is on development of fundamental ballet skills. Students will learn basic terminology and work to improve flexibility and strength in a supportive environment. The class will progress as appropriate for students, with individual challenges for those who demonstrate the ability.

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights or leggings, ballet shoes. Skirts are optional. Longer hair should be pulled back into a bun if possible. All other hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or with a head band unless very short.  Buns are required for long hair.

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.

This class is for students with limited experience in jazz and those with some experience in other dance styles. Students will learn and build on fundamental skills while performing fun combinations to upbeat music. The class is a great class for “older” beginners. 

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights, leggings or jazz pants, black jazz shoes. Longer hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or with a headband.

This class is for students who have progressed through the precious gems series, or who have had at least 2 to 3 years of dance experience, and demonstrate consistency in dance skills. Dance vocabulary will be expanded and more focus will be placed on  understanding correct demonstration of technique, particularly with foundational material.

Attire: leotard of any color (male students may wear leotard or fitted solid T-shirt), tights or leggings, ballet shoes. Skirts are optional. Longer hair should be pulled back. in a ponytail  or with a headband. Black tap shoes.

LOOKING AHEAD: All dancers who wish to participate in our annual dance recital, at the end of the Spring Session, must register for BOTH the Winter 1 & Winter 2 Session and the Spring Session.