Durham Arts Council

120 Morris Street

Durham

560-2787

Gateway Commons

1708 A East Franklin Street

Chapel Hill

932-2676

Stage One
Ballet-Based Creative Movement
This is an introduction to dance through a ballet based creative movement program for boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 7. The focus is on developmental skills using music, movement and make believe. Young dancers experiment with new ways to move their bodies, both directed and free-form with attention to musicality and rhythm. Age-appropriate cognitive skills, such as counting, sequential organization, spatial awareness and comparative abstract concepts are woven into the class structure. A typical class will incorporate ballet form, creative play and motor skill enhancement all in a format that is innovative and fun. As they progress through Stage One, dancers will develop self-control, self-confidence, and the beginning of their ballet vocabulary. The Jazz Package may be added for 6 and 7 year olds. The Tap, Rhythm and Musicality Package maybe added for ages 3 and 4-year olds. (tap shoes recommended but not required)

Stage One classes meet once a week.

Stage Two
Ballet Basics
This stage is designed to lay the foundation for developing future ballet technique. For Stage 2 level A, a dancer needs to be at least 8 years old; no previous experience is necessary. For Stage 2 level B, dancers must have completed level A or its equivalent. In Stage Two, we focus on understanding correct posture and alignment, which allows for greater balance and controlled movement later. More complex rhythms are introduced to develop musicality and coordination. The ballet vocabulary grows as we stress using correct terminology. In Stage Two, dancers are invited to include the optional Extended Study Package. This Jazz and Modern Repertory class exposes students to the techniques of different styles in a choreographic format. The Jazz Package will be offered the first and third quarter. The Modern Package will be offered the second and fourth quarter.  The Extended Packages dancers are used in community performances.

Stage Two classes meet twice a week.

Stage Three
Ballet Technique
Completing Stage Two or its equivalent is a prerequisite to Stage Three. The classes expand to 90 minutes and the Extend Study Package options increase. The three levels within this stage continue to build on the basics with an emphasis on developing strength and flexibility. Students become acquainted with a wider variety of steps and positions and enchainment (combinations) have increased difficulty.

Level A
Female dancers prepare to meet the requirements necessary to be considered for pointe shoes the following year. The Extended Study package includes 1 quarter of Jazz Repertory, 1 quarter of Character Dance,1 quarter of Modern Dance and 1 quarter of Pre-Pointe.

Level B
This level meets two times per week with the option of adding a day. The class on Friday (which is combined with level C) will offer a wide variety of dance and body work including: Pilates, Eurythmics, Stretch Classes, Ballet Repertory and master classes with guest faculty in Character, Modern, Jazz, Flamenco and African. Female dancers are invited to enroll the Extended Study Package which is pointe work. Our dancers begin in pre-pointe shoes and when ready the teacher will plan for a group fitting.

Level C
This more advanced level includes pointe twice a week and ballet repertory in the Extended Study package. The focus on repertory is to develop performance quality and aplomb. Dancers should learn to present their technique with artistry and ease. In addition to the 2 hour classes, this class meets on Friday (combined with level B) for a wide variety of dance and body work including, Pilates, Eurythmics, Stretch Classes, Ballet Repertory and master classes with guest faculty in Character, Modern, Jazz, Flamenco and African.

Stage Four
Ballet Technique
Level A
A level of accomplishment and competency is expected. Dancers should be comfortable with the mastery of all previously learned steps. A strong ballet foundation is required and dancers should perform with confidence and aplomb. This class meets for 2 hours on Monday, Wednesday. On Friday, the 90 minute class will be a mixed curriculum.

Triangle Youth Ballet Ensemble Dancer’s Company Class
This repertory class is opened to dancers in level 3c and 4a. Inform your teacher if you are interested. Admittance is by invitation. Acceptance requires daily technique classes and participation in all company events.

Professional Track Training Program Company Classes
Admittance by application, audition and invitation only, this program is designed for those dancers eager to pursue a dance career. It requires a minimum commitment to attend at least 2 hours of class per day. The curriculum includes Technique, Pointe, Character, Partnering, Body Conditioning, Modern, and Jazz styles, all supported by guest faculty and choreographers. We provide every opportunity for this group to have a wide variety of performance venues, to attend ballet festivals and to participate in exchange programs with other non profit schools. Audition support available. All dancers will be evaluated quarterly.

Dance Technique for Adults
A perfect blend of art and exercise, we offer many classes for adults. Beginning Ballet is an introduction to the fundamentals and meets twice a week. It is the place start. It is also a wonderful way to reintroduce yourself to the technique you studied as a child. Intermediate Adult Ballet is the next step, it also meets twice a week. In addition, we have several opportunities during the week for drop-in open classes.
Check our schedule.
Tuition: Based on hours of study per week. Drop in rate is $25.00 per class, class cards are available in office. Special rates for college students and dance professionals.
Dress Requirements: Adults may wear any comfortable and appropriate dance wear.

Photos by Catharine Carter