Our year round curriculum is divided into three divisions and across multiple genres. Additionally, we have workshops and singular class offerings focusing on specific elements of dancer development. We also have resources on a variety of topics available to performers via our blog!
Our Primary Division includes our Pre - 1 level classes. For Pre-level students (ages 3-6), we have Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and Hip Hop. For Beginning and Level 1 (determined by experience level, not age) students, we offer Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Hip Hop. This division lays the foundational knowledge necessary for students to apply sound technique across their dance education. The Primary Division classes are fun, engaging, and tailored to the ages and abilities of our students! While Beg-1 Level placements are not determined by age, we do work to form our classes with student age ranges and comfort in mind so that students are learning alongside their peers in an encouraging and appropriate environment!
Our Junior Division includes our 2-5 level classes. Students in this division are offered Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Hip Hop according to their level placement (determined by evaluation). In addition, students in this division may be invited to take our Composition/Choreography class and/or Pre-Pointe class. Students in Levels 4-5 may also be invited into our Performance Group or Beginning Pointe class. Lastly, Level 5 students have the opportunity to become Classroom Assistants which develops leadership skills and can be used as volunteer hours! This division builds upon the technical foundation of the Primary Division curriculum, introducing students to more rigorous training, increased dance vocabulary education, and further performing opportunities. While remaining fun, these classes become more challenging for students in order to start shaping their artistry and expanding their technical ability. Placement in this division is determined by evaluation and invitation.
Our Senior Division includes our Intermediate - Advanced level classes. Students in this division are offered Ballet, Pointe Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Composition Choreography, and Performance group according to their level placement (determined by evaluation). In addition, Senior Division students are highly encouraged to volunteer as Classroom Assistants. This division places students on a pre-professional track to create the strength and technique necessary for a professional and/or collegiate level career. This division requires an intentional commitment from students inside and outside of the classroom as it includes a variety of performance, volunteer, and artisic development experiences. Placement in this division is determined by evaluation and invitation.
Adult dancers come from diverse backgrounds of experience and we are developing our program to be as inclusive as possible. We currently offer Ballet, Contemporary, and Hip Hop for our adult students. Some of our adult genre offerings include both Beginner and Intermediate levels while others currently only have Beginning levels. For adult dancers with years of experience who would like to be challenged, we are able to evaluate for placement in our Senior Division. All of our adult classes perform in our annual performances but students are given the choice to opt out of performance if they so desire. We believe that it's never to late for someone to return to the love of dance or pursue it for the first time and love having adult dancers and dreamers in our family!
Dance AS Expansion is our Daytime Homeschool Dance Program. It is a continuation of our evening curriculum expanded into the daytime. These sessions run 6-8 weeks at a time with one to four genre styles offered per session in combo-class formats. Our next session will run in early 2024. For more information or upcoming dates, contact us and view our calendar!
Ballet is a classical form of dance that is characterized by its elaborate and precise techniques, as well as its graceful and fluid movements. Ballet is often performed to classical music and follows a specific set of techniques and positions.
Contemporary is a genre of dance characterized by its fluidity, versatility, and expressiveness. Unlike traditional dance forms, contemporary dance does not adhere to a specific set of established movements or techniques. Instead, it draws inspiration from various dance styles, including modern dance, ballet, jazz, and even elements of everyday movement.
Jazz is a form of dance characterized by its energetic and dynamic movements, syncopated rhythms, and improvisational style. It encompasses a wide range of styles and techniques, often borrowing elements from ballet, tap dance, and other dance genres. Jazz has evolved over the years and has been influenced by various choreographers and dance styles, making it a diverse and versatile form of expression.
Hip Hop refers to a diverse range of street dance styles. It is characterized by its energetic and expressive movements, often reflecting the music's rhythm and lyrics.
We have three levels of volunteer opportunities for Classroom Assistants based upon their level, experience assisting, demonstrated commitment, and long term goals.
Demonstrator requirements are:
- No cell phone use during class
- Abide by the dress code while demonstrating
- Model classroom etiquette and assist with maintaining it amongst the students
- Set the example and know warm-ups and combinations; demonstrate expected behavior
- Demonstrate combinations in class with proper technique and performance value
- Observe and build knowledge in how classes are structured
Student Assistant requirements are:
The above AND
- Model inclusive behavior; notice unkind/unhelpful behavior and communicate it to the teacher (do not correct without permission)
- Understand technique and identify needed corrections; occasionally giving corrections with permission and correct wording
- Observe and understand various teaching techniques
Teacher Assistant requirements are:
The above AND
- Give gentle corrections as needed
- Occasionally choreograph simple combinations to teach
- Be well- versed in dance terminology
- Be able to explain the ‘how to’ and ‘why’ for movements
- Be able to take over a class for a short period if the teacher needs to step out
A dedicated group of dancers whose goal is to create and present high-quality dance performances while contributing to the development and promotion of dance as an art form at festivals and community events.
View our Tuition Rates. If you have questions regarding our prices, please email us at danceasdanceacademy@gmail.com.
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17650 Possum Point Rd, Suite H
Dumfries VA