Classes

Modern dance began in the early 1900s when dancers started to rebel against the constraints of classical ballet. Dancers began to focus on creative self-expression as well as technique. Modern dance is a relaxed, free style of dance in which emotions and feelings are used. Because of the common history, modern and ballet share a similar terminology and structure. Modern classes will help develop core strength, flexibility, stamina, balance, co-ordination and a sense of performance. Modern explores varying rhythms and styles such as lyrical, contemporary, jazz and musical theatre. A variety of music is used from the latest hits to well known musicals. There are opportunities to take ISTD graded examinations in Modern.

Tap dancing was originally influenced by African Juba dancing, English Lancashire clogging, Irish step dancing and Spanish Flamenco dancing! During the 1930’s to the 1950’s the best tap dancers moved from Vaudeville to cinema and television. Tap dance is characterized by a tapping sound that is created from metal plates attached to the ball and heel of the dancer’s shoe that create a percussive sound like playing a musical instrument. Fun, yet challenging. Tap classes focus on rhythm, syncopation and self-expression through creative use of the feet. Other tap skills include timing, co-ordination, and fitness. An array of music is used in tap class to create different styles of tap including; Swing, Jazz, Latin, Musical Theatre, Pop and Contemporary music. There are opportunities to take ISTD graded examinations in tap.

Ballet is a beautiful core subject that provides the foundation for all other dance styles. Best known for its unique features and techniques, ballet puts great emphasis on the execution of movement. Distinctive features of ballet include the continuous outward rotation of the thighs from the hip, referred to as “turnout”, high extensions and graceful flowing movements. Ballet classes work on building strength in the legs and the core, developing flexibility and strong feet for pointe work. Classes will improve posture, balance, control and musical awareness. Ballet helps to build muscle strength therefore preventing injuries. It is a challenging yet extremely rewarding class for all age groups. There are opportunities to take ISTD graded examinations in Imperial Ballet.

Hip Hop is a dance style that evolved in open spaces such as streets, parks, and nightclubs. It is often improvisational and social in nature and includes popping, locking and breaking. These classes are fast paced and challenging, teaching the most up to date moves and styles. These high energy classes focus on technique, strength building, stamina, timing, co-ordination and development of personal style. All the latest chart tracks are used to teach funky, cool and fun routines.

Contemporary dance is a genre that has grown to become one of the dominant genres for dancers throughout the world. Originally borrowing from classical, modern and jazz styles, it has since come to incorporate elements from many styles of dance and is a now a fundamental part of any dancer’s repertoire. We encourage all pupils, where possible, to learn comtemporary to further enhance their technique and versatility.

Since the early 20th century, musical theatre productions have been called “musicals”. Musicals are performed all around the world in West End and Broadway productions, in smaller fringe theatres, on tour, or by amateur groups. Musical theatre is a form of theatre combining singing, acting and dancing. In class pupils develop a range of theatrical and performance skills and techniques. Script work, improvisation and drama games are used to improve acting skills. Techniques are used to improve singing, adding movement to create song and dance routines. We explore a variety of musicals, old and new. Musical theatre is a great opportunity for pupils to grow in confidence and improve their social and performance skills.