Pre-Professional Programs

Pre-Professional Dancers in the Studio

When students have achieved a level of proficiency beyond the Children’s Program, they are introduced to the Pre-Professional Program. The curriculum offered at this level is that of a more intense dance program. Students are encouraged to take more than one class per week and are now eligible to audition for the Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s The Nutcracker. Level 3 and above are now eligible to audition for the Central Indiana Dance Ensemble, the academy’s resident Regional Dance Company.

Class Descriptions

Ballet 2 & 3

Upon entering Ballet 2 & 3, more is demanded of the student physically and mentally. The barre and warm up exercises become more challenging. In the center, the steps are more intricate. Two technique classes are suggested.

Ballet 4 & 5

Ballet 4 & 5 requires more strength at the barre as exercises are longer and more challenging. Rotation of the legs in the hips to create an aesthetic ballet line is required at these levels. Students are required to retain more terminology. Coordination of the arms with the movements of the legs is stressed. Musical phrasing become more advanced. It is recommended that at this level the dancers take three technique classes. Level 5 students exhibiting enough strength are encouraged to begin pre-pointe class.

Ballet 6 & 7

In preparation for Ballet 8, artistry, nuances and musicality are stressed. Height of leg extensions at the barre are critical. Petite allegro and more complex turns and jumps are in the syllabus. It take many years of study to work up to this level of dance. Students are usually in their teens by the time they reach level 7.

Ballet 8

Ballet 8 is the highest level class and is taught at professional standards. Longer, more involved warm-ups are designed to build strength, agility and technique. Center combinations use many steps including small and large jumps and turns across the floor. Artistry through the phrasing of music is encouraged.

Pre-Pointe/Pointe 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8

A strict criteria must be met before a student may begin to dance on pointe. Strong core body alignment, straight knees and developed arches of the feet are necessary.

Jazz

The students will be learning freedom of movement and various styles of jazz stemming from ballet. Each level gradually increase length of center combinations. Jazz steps are more intricate.

Tap

Tap 1 & 2 importance of technique and sound articulation are emphasized. Tap 3 Artistic development is encouraged through the introduction of more complex sounds.

Modern

Modern dance is a freer movement style than classical ballet. Modern technique is based on principles of fall and recovery and of contraction and release. Classes are conducted barefoot.

Suggested Curriculum

For the maximum benefit of the pre-professional programs the suggested curriculum should be followed:

  • Level 2 - 2 Ballet, Jazz, and/or Tap
  • Level 3 - 2 Ballet, Jazz and/or Tap
  • Level 4 - 3 Ballet, Pre-Pointe, Jazz, and/or Tap
  • Level 5 - 4 Ballet, 2 Pre-pointe/Pointe, Jazz and/or Tap
  • Level 6 - 4 Ballet, 3 Pointe, Jazz, Modern, and/or Tap
  • Level 7 - 5 Ballet, 4 Pointe, Jazz, and Modern
  • Level 8 - 6 Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Jazz, and Modern