 Ballet
and Pointe
Ballet:
- Ages 7 through Adult
- Levels I-V (Beginner through Pre-Professional)
Pointe:
- By approval only; Minimum of 2 ballet classes weekly,
additional classes highly suggested
- Levels I-V (Beginner through Pre-Professional)
The SCSTD Ballet Program is extremely noted for producing ballet
dancers, both male and female. SCSTD Ballet students have utilized
their Ballet training on Broadway, with professional ballet and
dance companies, on scholarships to summer programs at prestigious
ballet schools, and at colleges and universities. We highly recommend
any student who is considering a professional dance career to take
as many ballet classes as possible, as ballet is the foundation
of most all forms of dance. We are honored to offer Vaganova and
Cecchetti styles of Ballet. The Cecchetti technique has been developed
from the teachings of the great ballet master Enrico Cecchetti
by the Cecchetti Society. One notable emphasis in the Cecchetti
syllabus is that the arms flow and blend from position to position
more than any other technique. The Russian Vaganova technique is
named after and derived from the teachings of Agrippina Vaganova,
who was the artistic director of the Kirov Ballet for many years.
Just one example of a difference from the Vaganova method, is that
dancers bring attention to their hands as the hands do not flow
invisibly from one position to the next as in the Cecchetti method,
the hands will get left behind and turn at the last moment. The
arabesques and arm positions differ in each style and we prepare
our students and give them the knowledge of both techniques of
ballet.
We stress proper placement of torso, hips, and legs without exceeding
anatomical limitations. For our beginning students, emphasis
is on the coordination of arms and head begin to develop with
a concentration on smooth transitions throughout the exercises.
Training at this level is designed to establish a basic foundation
in ballet. Students develop practical skills, muscular self-control
and basic coordination and expression.
More advanced Ballet Students will aim to develop strength and
stability in the demonstration of the pirouettes, balance, control,
extension, fluidity, and in petite and grand allegro. Suppleness
and smooth graceful movements are developed in these levels along
with the coordination of head, arms, legs, and body. For advanced
students, the curriculum also includes classes in classical technique,
repertoire studies, partnering, character dance, adagio studies,
music, ballet history and body conditioning. This level concentrates
on the mastery of more complex movements and combinations. The
ongoing development of performance skills is stressed.
After several years of building technique, you may be asked by
your instructor to begin Pointe. Pointe requires a solid technique
before beginning Pointe work. Pointe requires a minimum of two
technique classes per week, but more classes are highly suggested.
Be sure to check out the Former
Students page, so you can be inspired by SCSTD students who
have utilized their Ballet training on Broadway, in the entertainment
industry, in college, and with professional Ballet and dance
companies!
Is Ballet your passion? Audition for the Ballet
Company of The
Susan Chambers Dance Company. All of our
SCSTD students age 6 and up have the opportunity to be considered
for a position in our nationally recognized and award winning
pre-professional company. Additional training and performing
opportunities are available when you are accepted into our prestigious
pre-professional company.
All Ballet classes enjoy performing in our Annual
Concert.
Ballet Classes vary in length due to ability
level. Ballet classes are offered in Levels I-V (Beginner through
Pre-Professional).
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