Preparatory Ballet Summer Program (Ages 7-9)

The Preparatory Ballet Summer Program is strategically designed to equip new and beginner dancers ages 7 to 9 years old with a solid foundation in classical ballet, preparing them for ongoing and disciplined studies in ballet. Students must attend all weeks of the Program to participate in the final showcase.  There is no audition required to attend Program, but students must be ready for serious, focused studies in dance.  The Program emphasizes the technical principles of classical ballet (Vaganova Method) alongside a creative curriculum that supports a student’s individual artistry.  In an encouraging environment, participants practice the elementary exercises of classical ballet training, emphasizing creativity, posture, flexibility, foot exercises and stage direction.  Also included is the development of musical/rhythmic awareness, memory/focus for the training process, and an understanding of the protocol and etiquette of the ballet studio. Floor barre will be emphasized, with increasing difficulty added to the student’s routine. Students will also be introduced to the study of acting in ballet classes through the use of games, imagery, improvisation and exercises, while also continuing their study of age-appropriate repertoire and dances.  The Program also introduces the student to pre-pointe exercises in order to build appropriate foot, ankle, and body strength for beginning pointe work in the early levels of the Vaganova Method. While choreography is learned across the Program, the focus remains centered on refining and expanding the dancer’s technique. The final showcase involves the presentation of in-progress works and creative demonstrations of solid technique.