Class Descriptions

Mommy and Me! (18 months - 3 years) This class requires the participation of a parent, nanny, or or guardian during class. In this class we will explore movement forms, use balance, exploration, rhythm, partner dance, and creative dance. Using props and musical instruments, we will engage budding dancers in movement and music activities. This class will not perform in the June recital. Dress Code: Comfortable clothes that you can move in during class. Many young dancers choose to wear a leotard with a dance tutu, and leather Ballet . We recommend purchasing dance attire from our studio dance store.

Twinkle Toes (2.5 - 3 years) and Pre-Ballet/Tap (3 - 4 years) This class introduces children to the preparatory movements for classical ballet (and tap in pre-ballet). Children will learn beginning ballet technique, spatial awareness, motor skills, dance vocabulary, and creative movement.

Ballet/Tap (5 - 6 years) This class introduces children to basic classical ballet, tap movement, and vocabulary.

Ballet/Tap/Jazz/Acro (6 - 9 years) This class introduces children to basic classical ballet, tap, jazz, stretch, creative movement, motor skills, tumbling, and vocabulary.

Ballet/Jazz (7-10 years) and Jazz/Tap Beg (6-10 years) These classes expand on basic ballet, jazz, and tap skills introduced in earlier ballet, tap and jazz introductory classes.

Classical Ballet (Beg Ballet I, Ballet Int I) 60 to 75 minute classical ballet class with an emphasis on beginning ballet terminology, alignment, stretch, proper technique, and development of core muscles.

Classical Ballet (Ballet Int II, Ballet Int III) 75 minute classical ballet class with an emphasis on intermediate ballet terminology, alignment, stretch, ankle/foot strengthening exercises and a development of core muscles.

Pre-Pointe (Pre-Requisite: Teacher Evaluation and successful competition of Ballet Int II/III) This class is by teacher evaluation only. Students will utilize previously learned ballet technique beginning in ballet shoes and working towards pointe shoes. Each class includes barre exercises, center floor work, and across the floor combinations. These exercises focus on strengthening the feet and ankles.

Pointe (Pre-Requisite: Teacher Evaluation and successful completion of Pre-Pointe) This class is by teacher evaluation only. Students will utilize previously learned ballet technique while working pointe shoes. Each class includes barre exercises, center floor work, and across the floor combinations. These exercises focus on strengthening the feet and ankles. Pointe Shoes: We will schedule a pointe fitting appointment at Dance Supplies Etc with the Ballet teacher, dancer and parent to assist dancers with selecting their first pair of pointe shoes.

Tap Int/Tap Youth (Pre-Requisite: Teacher evaluation and successful completion ofJazz/Tap beg.or Tap Int) 45 minute class that will focus on technical development, dance vocabulary, proper alignment, and basic articulation of choreography.

Tap Advanced (Pre-Requisite: Teacher evaluation and successful completion of Tap Youth) 60 minute class that will focus on technical development, dance vocabulary, proper alignment, and basic articulation of choreography.

Contemporary (Advanced; Pre-Requisite: Successful competition of Lyrical Youth) Contemporary dance is a style of expressive dance that combines elements of several dance genres including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet. Contemporary dancers strive to connect the mind and the body through fluid dance movements.

Jazz Int/Jazz Youth (Pre-Requisite: Teacher evaluation and successful completion of Jazz/Tap beg. or Tap Int) 45-minute class focusing specifically on jazz technique. Class will include level appropriate isolations, floor combinations, stretching, leaps and turns, choreography, and core strengthening.

Jazz Adv (Pre-Requisite: Teacher evaluation and successful completion of Jazz Youth) 60-minute class focusing specifically on jazz technique. Class will include level appropriate isolations, floor combinations, stretching, leaps and turns, choreography, and core strengthening.

Lyrical Beg / Lyrical Int / Lyrical Youth (Based on technique level) 45-minute class is a blend of classical ballet technique and jazz dance. It is designed to enhance musicality, strength, control, and interpretive movement abilities. Irish Beginner, Irish Youth, Pre-Hard Shoe, Hard Shoe, Irish Intermediate/ Advanced (Based on Technique level/Evaluated by Teacher) This class offers Irish traditional dancing, music, and culture. Students will gain coordination, rhythm, and strength by learning traditional steps and basics. Individual instruction will guide students toward improvisational techniques and help them develop a personal style that is evident of the tradition. Dress Code: Girls: Comfortable clothes that you can move in during class. Ghillies are the Irish dance shoes. Boys: White t-shirt and black dance pants, and Black Jazz Shoes. Recommended Shoes: Ghillies and Hard Shoe (Teacher recommendation - after completing Pre-Hard Shoe Class). We have a relationship with a regional vendor, Irish Seams who comes out to our studio in August/September each season to size and sell Irish dance shoes required for all Irish classes at DDA.

Acro I & Acro II (8+ years) (Acro II placement based upon teacher evaluation) This class teaches flexibility, balance, strength, muscle control, discipline, and concentration. Students will learn movements such as forward and backward rolls, cartwheels, handstands, and back bends. Acrobatic elements from ballet and jazz will be incorporated to help create a well-rounded acro experience.

Leaps and Turns (12+ years; Advanced Level) This class is for the more upper-level Jazz student wishing to strengthen the skills needed to perform advanced leaps and turns. Class emphasis includes proper body placement in turning positions and leaps, gaining and controlling flexibility and becoming more proficient in multiple turns.

Musical Theatre Jazz: Dancers will learn theatrical dancing that combines the songs of Broadway Musicals with movements of classical Jazz styles. Dancers will need both tan jazz shoes and tan character shoes for this class. Dress Code: Girls: Any solid color leotard, tan tights, and Tan Jazz shoes and Tan Character shoes. Boys: White t-shirt, Black pants, Black Jazz Shoes.

Private Lessons Students are able to work 1:1 with a teacher work on technique and choreography for special performances and the annual recital. Arranged by special appointment with teachers. You may sign up for privates using this link: https://davydanceacademyprivatelessons.as.me/

All Dress Code descriptions are explained and purchases can be made on our online dance store website: https://www.shopnimbly.com/davydanceacademy or at the studio.