2024-2025 Curriculum

Placement begins at the Pre-School Level and increases to Level VI. Every student is evaluated on a regular basis to ensure proper placement. Changes in a student’s class placement are based on the recommendations of DDC Director and Faculty. Do not be concerned if your child repeats a level of training, students will not necessarily be promoted to a higher level on an annual basis. Placement and advancement from one level to the next is based on the student’s own merit; overall strength and maturity; knowledge of vocabulary and technique, and the ability to demonstrate those skills.

All students must meet the age requirement by September 30, 2024 for class participation.

Creative Movement
(Age 3-4)

This program focuses on coordination, motor skill development, listening skills, and creative expression. Promoting imagination, while building physical ability; this program introduces the concepts of warming up, stretching and using movement to communicate both concrete story lines and abstract idea with interactive group exercises. Students develop classroom discipline, body awareness and control while exploring their own creativity, and begin to develop an understanding of the connection between dance, rhythm and music. *Must be potty trained.

Pre-Ballet
(Age 5-6)

This program is designed to introduce students to a more formal study of classical ballet through age appropriate skill development, creative expression and music appreciation, while exploring the connection between dance, rhythm and music. Age appropriate ballet vocabulary is included in the lessons complemented by stretching and strengthening exercises in preparation for more formal training.

Beginning Ballet – Advanced
(Age 6 with Pre-Ballet experience & up)

Provides students with a thorough understanding of the fundamental principles of classical ballet technique. Encourages students to achieve a significant level of self-discipline, physical control and flexibility, and correct body placement and alignment. Students will learn to develop a sincere appreciation of the historical contributions of ballet to the overall development of dance as an art form.

Pointe
(Age 10 & up)

Requires Director permission and enrollment in 3 ballet classes per week. Pointe work is undertaken when the student has developed a strong foundation of ballet technique, and when the legs and feet are sufficiently developed. Requires Director permission and enrollment in 3 ballet classes per week.

Variations
(Age 8 & up)

The studio becomes a stage in Variations class as students learn excerpts from classical and contemporary ballets. A portion of the repertoire will be performed in Act II of our Annual Spring Performance. **Requires enrollment in 1 ballet level III or higher class per week.

Modern I – Advanced
(Age 7 & up)

Requires enrollment in 1 ballet class per week. Introduces the fundamental principles of Horton modern technique, which is reputed to fortify, stretch and strengthen the human body. It is anatomically corrective and utilized in the widest possible range of motion, with an emphasis on large, full movements done to musical phrases of varying lengths and dynamics. Requires enrollment in 1 ballet class per week.

Beginning Jazz – Advanced
(Age 6 with Beginning Jazz experience & up)

Emphasis is placed on appropriate technique of jazz dance skills and its application in the development of rhythm, syncopation, coordination, musicality, and variation of style. Coordination of these elements will focus on increasing body strength, flexibility and kinesthetic awareness. Students will study current and traditional jazz vocabulary and styles.

Musical Theatre
(Age 7 & up)

Musical theatre dance is a jazz-based class filled with Broadway style dancing and music. Classes will incorporate a variety of dance styles including tap! (Tap shoes not required but optional). We will learn performance skills such as connecting with the audience and facial expression. In addition to movement, we will also incorporate basic acting skills, learn stage directions and terminology. Study and watch snippets of videos from Broadway musicals featuring well known choreographers and learn to perform excerpts from well-known age-appropriate musicals. If you love show tunes and all things Theatre, this class is perfect for your rising star! Key skills include: coordination, strength, rhythm, musicality. Create a safe environment for students to explore, experience and enjoy.

Pre-Tap I
Pre-Tap I (Age 4), Pre-Tap II (Age 5-6)

Beginning Tap – Advanced
(Age 6 with Pre-Tap experience & up)

A form of dance where rhythmic sounds are created with the feet. Works to develop rhythm, musicality, precision and physical expression.

Beginning Jazz Funk - IV/V
(Age 6 & up)

Jazz Funk is a fusion of styles, incorporating jazz roots into a melting pot of hip hop and contemporary. Students will learn isolations, rhythm, and movement associated with a broad spectrum of genres. It is comprised of movement that is funky, expressive, and fun.

Art & Movement for All
(Age 5 & up)

An inclusive dance program that will provide children with developmental disabilities the opportunity to further develop social, emotional and physical skills in a safe environment through the discipline of dance. Dancers are supported by their teacher and peer mentors who will lead children in working on the following: Gross & fine motor skills, body control & awareness, strength & flexibility, social skills, coordination, memory & recall skills. *Please note there is a separate registration process for these classes with director permission required.

Contemporary
(Age 10 & up)

Based on a blend of ballet, modern and jazz, dancers will challenge their technique and artistic expressions while deepening their exploration of movement in this grounded and explorative style of dance. Enrollment in 1 ballet class.