Ballet technique provides a solid foundation for the study of many different styles of dance. The dancer learns to properly hold the spine, work the appropriate muscle groups and external rotation, and absorb the French terminology associated with dance. Basic fundamentals will be emphasized with focus on correct placement, clarity, detail of movement, and development of musicality and grace. Exercises at the barre, in center, and across the floor explore these movement concepts and train proper placement. Ballet shoes, leotards, and tights/leggings are required.

A fusion of ballet, jazz, and modern techniques makes for a creative exploration of contemporary movement. Dancers will become familiar with the way movement communicates meaning, and how the emotions we experience can inspire connection with others. Goals of the class are to encourage new vocabulary, risk taking, suspension, technical placement, and fulfilling range of motion. Dancers will come to understand the forces that act on the body as well as how to work with those forces as they practice turns, leaps, extensions, and transitions.

Jazz is an upbeat and expressive movement style that emphasizes sharpness and articulation. Dance to a variety of music from broadway to pop hits while studying leaps, kicks, turns, and footwork.

Imaginations is a creative movement and pre-ballet class for our youngest dancers. They will explore movement through imagery, storytelling, and games while being introduced to basic dance terminology.

Born on the streets, hip ­hop is grounded, unapologetic, precise, and dynamic. Dancers will learn about the energy and effort of specific hip hop vocabulary as well as how to concentrate on the isolation of body parts to create distinct imagery. Popping, locking, and other basic techniques will be introduced. Sneakers are required for this class.

Tap, the study of rhythm, allows us to become the music. In this class, students will be introduced to tap technique and vocabulary, and then be invited to play with rhythm, syncopation, accent, compound steps, and polyrhythms. Make some noise while discovering your inner musician!

Rhythm Stomp, a complement to the hip hop and tap studies, is a one-of-a-kind offering here in Western Mass! Dancers create the soundscape of the dance using drum sticks and parts of their bodies to create the score. Clarity of sound and mastery of the interplay between various “voices” will be emphasized. Clap! Stomp! Groove!