Winter Spring 2013 Schedule

Winter Spring Semester February 4, 2013 - June 23, 2013

BalletNova Center for Dance’s mission is to provide a center of dance excellence in Northern Virginia, nurturing and training dancers of all ages, and offering superb community performances.

BalletNova offers classes in Young (ages 3-8), Youth (ages 9-12), Teen (ages 13-16), Adult (ages 15 and up), and Pre-Professional Ballet (ages 7-18).

To register, please fill out the Enrollment Form and review our enrollment policies and procedures. Please see our Studio Policies and Parent Handbook for more program information, policies and procedures.

Please note that ALL CLASSES have off Inaguration Day, Memorial Day and Easter holiday.  ALL CHILDREN CLASSES have spring break from March 25-31. There are no classes this week for children, adult classes continue on regular schedule.

Pre-Professional Ballet Program

• Junior Division
• Senior Division
• ConservatoryDivision

Children's Classes

• Creative Movement (Ages 3-4)
• Pre-ballet I & II (Ages 4-6)
• Ballet (Ages 6-14)
• Tap (Ages 6-15)
• Jazz and Hip Hop (Ages 8-14)
• Modern and Improv (Ages 8-12)

Boys Classes

• Dance Fusion (Ages 7-11)
• Hip Hop (Ages 9-12)

Adult Division

• Ballet
• Tap
• Jazz
• Hip Hop
• Modern / Contemporary
• Theatre Dance
• Conditioning (Pilates, Cardio, Stretch)
• Try-it-out Workshops

Pre-Professional Ballet Program

Serious ballet training with the finest professional instructors in a nurturing and respectful environment is the hallmark of the BalletNova pre-professional program.

For class and tuition information, click here.

Our Junior through Conservatory Divisions offer intensive pre-professional ballet training that prepares young dancers for professional careers should they choose that path. Our philosophy of teaching focuses on building not only technical strength and artistic excellence but also confidence and self-esteem. In addition to the professional experience and diverse backgrounds of our highly qualified faculty, our curriculum incorporates elements from the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum™ syllabus. Conservatory Division students have the opportunity to audition to be members of BalletNova, our resident company, which gives students valuable stage experience in a professional setting. Many of our students have gone on to professional careers with internationally known companies, including American Ballet Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Ohio Ballet, Houston Ballet, Dresden Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet, Ballet Met Columbus, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Royal Ballet, Louisville Ballet, Connecticut Ballet, and Los Angeles Ballet. Others continue on to college dance programs and persue other dance and theatre related career paths.

New students must take an audition class before enrolling.
Please contact Artistic Director Nancie Woods at nwoods@BalletNova.org.

Please note: Tuition shown is for the full academic year, from September 2011 through June 2012. Re-enrollment will not be necessary for the winter-spring semester except for additionally enrolled youth or teen division classes. Tuition may be paid in full or monthly in installments.  All Pre-professional students will be required to sign a dance school contract for the year. To increase their technical versatility, students are encouraged to take Youth Division classes in Modern, Jazz, Tap and Hip Hop. Enrolled students receive a discounted price for these additional classes.

Dancers joining the program throughout the year will receive a pro-rated tuition for the remaining classes.

Junior Division

The Junior Division ballet curriculum incorporates principles from today’s leading classical ballet training methods. It is an integrated curriculum of required classes spanning several years of training. The curriculum is divided into levels to ensure that students are introduced to new skills in a manner appropriate to their physical, mental, and emotional development. Our program provides a strong foundation in classical ballet technique and overall dance education. Junior Division I, II and III classes incorporate beginning character and free movement work. Junior Division III female students begin preparing for pointe work, and Junior Division IV students are evaluated for progression onto pointe, which takes place in the 2nd half of the school year for those who are strong and old enough. The program is designed to guide the developing dancer toward the pre-professional Senior and Conservatory Divisions. All listed classes for each Junior Division level are required. All Junior Division students are eligible to audition for the company’s production of The Nutcracker and participate in the Annual Student Performance in June.

Senior & Conservatory Division

Dancers who successfully complete the Junior Division are promoted to the Senior and Conservatory Divisions.

These upper level programs are unique in their commitment to developing a strong dancer through a holistic approach to training.  The Conservatory Division incorporates opportunities for private lessons and individual coaching that may require students to obtain early release from their academic school. New students must take an audition class before enrolling. Conservatory Division students are eligible to audition for the BalletNova performing company. These students are required to reserve Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons for company rehearsals. Conservatory Division students (over 15 years old) may take additional adult classes at no cost and are encouraged to take advantage of classes in Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Tap.  In addition to performance opportunities and Private lessons Senior and Conservatory students will be eligible to take Master Classes from Richmond Ballet teachers and staff as well as other teachers from around the country. 
 

Children's Enrichment Division (Ages 3-15)

For class schedule and tuition information, click here.

Our Children’s Enrichment Division is the first building block of our of dance education program. Classes are designed to allow children to explore movement through music, develop physical skills, channel energy, and stimulate imagination and creativity. Dance training enhances cognitive learning skills such as memory and communication. Through the execution of movement patterns a child’s visual perception and sequential learning skills are greatly strengthened, in turn assisting young brains to develop in the areas of reading and math.  For older students, the emphasis for each class is to learn good clean technique, improve strength and flexibility, and build a vocabulary of steps.  Students are expected to work hard and challenge themsleves to improve.

For our Meet the Teacher schedule, click here.

Discovering Dance (Ages 3-4)

Must be 3 by January 1, 2013.  Make-ups available by pre-approval only. (Students must be toilet trained. Parent/caregiver must wait in waiting room during class.)

Pre-Ballet I (Ages 4-5)

This class continues the introduction of dance and movement. Rhythmic steps and basic ballet positions are introduced using imagery and music as creative tools for the development of confident movement. Sequential movement patterns, simple counting skills and spatial awareness are developed as dancers learn classroom etiquette and healthy group socialization.

Pre-Ballet II (Ages 5-6)

This class prepares the young dancer for the more structured ballet class. Still focusing on creativity and self expression, the curriculum incorporates more advanced movement patterns, counting skills and basic ballet positions and terminology. Musicality and posture awareness is encouraged and developed.

Ballet I (Ages 6-7)

Students are introduced to simple ballet steps, along with age-appropriate terminology and imagery. As children learn longer and more complicated movement patterns, they increase their muscle awareness, strength, and flexibility and develop their artistry and performance skills, confidence and self-esteem.

Ballet II (Ages 7-8)

The young dancer is introduced to barre exercises as the study of basic ballet terminology and placement continues. Beginning Ballet I concepts are reinforced and refined as the young dancer continues to learn new steps and exercises, further developing the student's sense of oneself as a dancer. Students study simple character dance steps and will require character shoes.

Tap I (Ages 6-8)

In this introductory class, dancers will learn basic tap steps with a focus on rhythm and musicality.  Each class will include a warm-up, exercises to improve technique, and fun combinations that  will allow the dancers to apply what they are learning while performing to upbeat, age-appropriate musical selections.

Tap II (Ages 6-8)

In this introductory class, dancers will learn basic tap steps with a focus on rhythm and musicality. Each class will include a warm-up, exercises to improve technique, and fun combinations that  will allow the dancers to apply what they are learning while performing to upbeat, age-appropriate musical selections.

Tap I/II (Ages 9-12)

In this introductory class, dancers will learn basic tap steps with a focus on rhythm and musicality.  Each class will include a warm-up, exercises to improve technique, and fun combinations that  will allow the dancers to apply what they are learning while performing to upbeat, age-appropriate musical selections.

Tap Intermediate (Ages 9-12)

Must have completed 2-3 years of tap.  This level should have knowledge of the many basic tap sets, such as brush, toe/ball, heel, dig, shuffle, flap, ball change, as well as simple combinations of the basic steps, such as shuffle hop step, flap heel (single, double), flap ball change, cramp roll, etc.  This class focuses on the clarity of the tap sound, balance, proper arm and body movements and alignment and ability to change directions easily.  Students will continue to expand knowledge of various tap steps and combinations, such as backups, simple riffs, crawls, time steps, single/double/triple sounds.

Tap Advanced (Ages 12-15)

Must have completed 3-4 years of tap with a good technical knowledge of tap.  This class will focus on improving technical skills of tap.  Steps/combinations will be longer and more intricate.  Students will learn a variety of time steps with breaks, riffs, paddle steps, pull backs and preparation for wings incorporating turns where possible.

Ballet I (Ages 9-12)

This class is designed for children who are new, or relatively new, to ballet. Students are taught basic ballet positions, terminology and vocabulary. The class begins with basic barre work and progresses to center floor exercises. Stretching and strengthening sequences are taught for home practice. Students interested in more intensive study may audition for the Junior Division on the advice of the instructor.

Ballet II/III (Ages 9-12)

An elementary ballet class for dancers who have completed at least a year of ballet training. The class will include a full study of barre work, center practice and allegro combinations. Stretching and strengthening sequences will also be taught for home practice to aid improvement. Students interested in more intensive study may audition for the Junior Division on the advice of the instructor.

Ballet I (Ages 13-16)

This class is designed for children who are new, or relatively new, to ballet. Students are taught basic ballet positions, terminology and vocabulary. The class begins with basic barre work and progresses to center floor exercises. Stretching and strengthening sequences are taught for home practice. Students interested in more intensive study may audition for the Junior Division on the advice of the instructor.

Ballet II/III (Ages 13-16)

A ballet class for dancers who have completed at least a year of ballet training. The class will include a full study of barre work, center practice and allegro combinations. Stretching and strengthening sequences will also be taught for home practice to aid improvement.

Jazz / Hip Hop I (Ages 9-12)

This class is designed for children that are new, or relatively new, to jazz and hip hop.  This class introduces students to basic jazz and hip hop technique, positions, and terminology, with a full warm-up incorporating foot and leg work, ab strengthening, isolations, and stretching followed by accross the floor introducing kicks, small jumps and turn preparations, and simple combinations.

Jazz II (Ages 9-12)

For students with at least 1 year of dance experience.  A strong warm-up followed by longer, more complicated combinations.

Jazz III (Ages 9-12)

For students with over 2 years of dance experience.

Hip Hop II/III (Ages 9-12)

For students with at least 1 year of dance experience.  A strong warm-up followed by longer, more complicated combinations.

Jazz / Hip Hop I (Ages 13-16)

For the complete beginner. This class introduces basic technique, movement, and rhythm with a warm-up and stretch followed by basic combinations.

Jazz / Hip Hop II / III (Ages 13-16)

At least 1 year of dance experience.  A strong warm-up is follwed by longer, more complicated combinations.

Modern and Improv II/III (Ages 9-12)

For at least 1 year of dance experience.

BOYS ONLY CLASSES

For class schedule and tuition information, click here.

There’s a reason football and basketball players take dance class – to increase strength, flexibility, coordination and quick footwork.

In addition to these “boys only” classes listed below, boys are also encouraged to enroll in any of age and/or level appropriate classes. Scholarships are available. Please contact nwoods@BalletNova.org for information.

Boys Dance Fusion (Ages 7-11)

This class is designed for boys only - incorporating strengthening exercises, stretching together various dance styles including modern and jazz as well as improvisation.

Boys Hip Hop (Ages 9-12)

This class is designed for boys only! Previous dance/movement experience is preferred, but not required.

Boys Ballet (Ages 9-12)

This class is designed for boys only and will incorporate strengthening exercises, stretching, and cross training together with barre and center work.

ADULT DIVISION (Ages 15 and Up)

For class schedule and tuition information, click here.

Be sure to take advantage of our combo discounts!

Throughout our adult division (from basic beginner through professional), all dancers are challenged to improve!

Classes are designed to promote good technique, artistry, and musicality along with physical strength, flexibility, and alignment. To that end, individual and group correction and instruction are given; and questions are encouraged! Classes develop communities of dedicated adults who love to dance, move, develop artistry, and stay in shape. Teens 15 and older are permitted to take adult classes.

Ballet

Basic Beginner Ballet

These classes are designed for the complete beginner! Instruction on alignment and posture will be emphasized as well as body, feet, and arm positions. Ballet positions, terminology and vocabulary will be taught as the class progresses. Students will begin with simple barre exercises for warm-up and basic center floor combinations. Small jumps and traveling steps will be introduced as the semester progresses. Stretch and strengthening exercises will also be taught for students to practice at home. Each class builds on the week before, so students are encouraged to enroll for this level for the full benefit of the course.

Beginning Ballet (Ballet I for non-beginners)

These classes are designed for dancers that have completed the Basic Beginning level or for those wanting to review the fundamentals.  An emphasis on placement, technique, terminology, placement, balance and strength will be provided. Students can expect a full barre, pirouette preparation, small and medium jumps and an introduction to grand allegro combinations across the floor.

Advanced Beginning Ballet (Ballet II)

Must have at least 2 years of Ballet experience.  This is a good level for non-beginning dancers unsure of their level, those returning after some time away from the ballet studio, and those confident at the Beginning Ballet level.  Dancers should have a full understanding of ballet terminology.  Students can expect a full barre followed by center with pirouette combinations, petit and  grand allegro with 1-to-1 and 2-to-1 foot jumps.

Intro to Pointe Class

This class is for students wanting to learn and go on pointe.  You must register for both the Ballet II class at 7:30 on Thursdays and this class in order to participate. No make-ups are available for this class.  Students should be taking at least 2 full ballet classes per week.

Intermediate Ballet (Ballet III)

Must have several years of Ballet experience.  Students can expect a faster paced class, longer combinations, increased complexity.  Dancers comfortable in the Advanced Beginning level that wish to build stamina, strength and receive more of a challenge are welcome to take this class.

Intermediate /Advanced Ballet

This fast paced full ballet class is for high intermediate and advanced dancers.  An excellent class for professionals, teachers and college students.

Pointe Intermediate

Adult pointe students should have several years of ballet training and pointe experience, and are required to take a regular ballet technique class before this one to properly warm-up and prepare for pointe. Students should be taking at least 2 full ballet  classes per week 

Tap

Beginning Tap 

These classes are designed for dancers that have completed the Basic Beginning level or for those wanting to review the fundamentals.  An emphasis on placement, technique, terminology, placement, balance and strength will be provided. Students can expect a faster paced class than the basic beginning level that reviews steps and introduces new ones such as military step, flap heel (single and double), simple steps, and backups (among others).

Advanced Beginning Tap (Tap II)

This is a good level to start if you took 1-2 years of tap as a youth and are returning as an adult.  This class is great for students who have learned the basics but still need to perfect skills and work on more intricate combinations. Steps are broken down to gain understanding and proficiency.  Dancers will work on the basic tap steps needed to advance to more intricate steps, such as maxi ford, Irish, paddle rolls, time steps.

Tap Intermediate

Must have several years of Tap experience.  This level requires solid tap skills and the ability to learn more difficult footwork and combinations more quickly than Advanced Begining, but steps are still broken down. Students can expect a faster paced class, longer combinations, increased complexity.

Jazz

Jazz Advanced Beginning

A full warm-up is given incorporating foot and leg work, ab strengthening, isolations, and stretching followed by across the floor introducing kicks, small jumps and turn preparations, and simple combinations, ending with a short choreographed routine.

Street Jazz Intermediate

This class provides a set warm up at the beginning of each semester that includes spinal articulation, plies, footwork, isolations, and an exercise to work on cardiovascular strength.  Across the floor exercises include battements, piroettes, and jumps.  Each class culminates in a dance combination of various styles including street jazz and pop hip hop.

Jazz - Theater Dance – Intermediate (Ages 16 and up)

This class features a technique warm-up combining ballet and classic jazz followed by traveling combinations with choreography.  This class is designed for intermediate students and above who wish to improve their theatrical skills and get a terrific workout.

HIP HOP

Hip Hop Beginning

Some beginning dance or structured movement experience is recommended but not required. This class introduces basic hip hop movements and technique with a warm-up and stretch followed by a short choreographed routine.

Contemporary / Modern

Modern Beginning

Some beginning dance or structured movement experience is recommended but not required.  This class introduces basic movements of modern dance and use of space.  Students can expect center warm-up with articulation of different parts of the body (plées, footwork, etc) and stretching, followed by across the floor, and ending with a short choreographed routine.

Contemporary / Lyrical Intermediate

Strong dance technique is required for this class.  This fast paced class pulls from a ballet warm-up of plies, tondues and footwork along with other articulation of the body and stretching.  Students can expect an across the floor and dance combination.

Adult Conditioning Program

Exercise and body awareness classes for dancers and non-dancers alike.

• Strengthen your core
• Improve your posture
• Lengthen and shape your muscles
• Improve flexibility
• Relieve stress

We have a very limited supply of mats. Please bring your own if possible.

Dance Cardio and Stretch

Fusing the principals of cardio, stretch and strength conditioning with the elegance and beauty of ballet, these classes provide a low-impact but effective series of movements that target the entire body. The result is improved posture, stability, core strength, overall toning plus the grace and poise of a dancer. Ballet experience is recommended but not required!

Pilates

Pilates increases the strength, flexibility and control of the body, building flexibility and endurance  in the legs, abdominals, arms and back.  The exercises emphasize the balanced development of the body through core strength, flexibility, control and awareness in order to support efficiency of movement.  These classes are great for core and full body workout for dancers and non-dancers alike. Pilates with props is not for beginners, previous pilates or dance experience required.  Props used are rings, balls and gliders.

Stretch

Proper stretching increases flexibility, joint range of motion, improves circulation and posture, and relaxes tight tense muscles resulting from stress or  exercise such as jogging and weight lifting.

Yoga Based Stretch Class

This class is designed to target connective tissue, specifically ligaments and tendons in the joints and spine. The positions are held for a longer period of time working towards complete relaxation to get deep into the areas of tension. Muscle accounts for 40 percent of the resistance against flexibility where as connective tissue is 50 percent. We work Hips ,Spine and Shoulders eventually moving to hamstrings. This is a great cross training for any activity. Through relaxation we increase range of motion and flexibility while taking out the tension our bodies hold from everyday life.