Rooted in classical technique and devoted to excellent teaching in a warm, nurturing atmosphere, the Arts Conservatory Dance Division enjoys a strong reputation among parents and students, and among dance professionals in places like American Ballet Theatre, the School of American Ballet, the Joffrey Ballet School, and other prestigious schools and companies where Arts Conservatory students earn admission and scholarships.
“Three Steps Dance Fundamentals”
“Step One” (age 3) – Through creative movement games, fun stretches, easy ballet terms, and lively music, these students take the first steps into the performing arts, a journey which will last a lifetime!
“Step Two” (age 4) –Students enjoy creative movement and basic ballet steps through exciting stories and descriptive classical music.
“Step Three” (age 5) – Five year olds step up to higher levels of technique and artistry, with basic ballet positions and steps taught “right from the beginning.”
ACCP “Arts Preschool”
At last, an integrated preschool program devoted to the arts! The Arts Conservatory is pleased to offer a morning program for 3 and 4 year olds. For two hours each day, students receive fun classes in creative dance, “fairy-tale” theater and drama, plus songs and music instruction, all taught by the Arts Conservatory’s faculty of experienced professionals.
Students may attend a two-day program on Mondays and Wednesdays. Parents will enjoy the ability to take classes at the same time, with beginning Pilates, Dance for Fitness, and adult ballet classes running simultaneously with the morning preschool.
The Arts Conservatory “Ballet Syllabus”
The Arts Conservatory’s innovative ballet syllabus is the key to student success. Each color-coded level consists of two sub-levels which represent approximately one year of training. However, each student advances at his or her own pace. Arts Conservatory students are constantly monitored to ensure constructive level placement. In addition, similar level classes may be combined, or students may be grouped (A, B, etc.) according to technical and artistic needs.
RED 1 and 2: Beginning Ballet I, 1-2 classes/week.
ORANGE 1 and 2: Beginning Ballet II, 2-3 classes/week.
YELLOW 1 and 2: Intermediate Ballet I, 3-4 classes/week.
GREEN 1 and 2: Intermediate Ballet II, 4-5 classes/week.
BLUE 1 and 2: Int./Advanced Ballet, 5-6 classes/ week
INDIGO 1 and 2: Advanced Ballet I, 6-7 classes/week.
VIOLET 1 and 2: Advanced Ballet II, 7-8 classes/week.
GOLD 1 and 2: Pre-Professional Ballet, 8+ classes/week.
Jazz and Modern Dance
These important contemporary dance styles are available at various technique levels at the Arts Conservatory. While it is not required, students taking Jazz or Modern are encouraged to also take ballet classes for their age and level to strengthen their dance foundation.
“Accelerated Technique”
New for 2007-2008, “Accelerated Technique” is available for most intermediate/advanced ballet levels. In the manner of professional companies, these advanced technique classes emphasize strengthening and polishing in a fast-paced setting. Women use pointe shoes throughout the class, and men receive special instruction specific to their needs.
Teen and Adult Dance, Pilates, and Dance for Fitness
An extensive schedule of classes is offered specifically for teen and adult dancers. Both morning and evening options are available to fit work or parenting schedules.
Classes have been scheduled so that Teen and Adult students can enjoy Arts Conservatory Music and Theater programs, as well.
Dance Ensembles
The Arts Conservatory has a well-earned reputation for excellent dance performances! While all dance students may perform twice each year, ensemble groups at levels Orange through Green provide additional opportunities for taking class and learning new repertoire. To qualify for an Ensemble, a student must take at least the minimum number of ballet classes specified for their level. The Ensemble class counts toward that number.
Two ensembles are available for advanced dancers in levels Blue and up. The Ballet Theatre of Central Pennsylvania offers class and rehearsal every Saturday afternoon during the Full Session, and presents two to three major performances each season. Students interested in membership must be available to rehearse regularly on Saturday afternoons, must commit to the entire season (through May, 2008), and must be available for all company performances.
For a lighter performance and rehearsal schedule, there is the DanceWorks Ensemble (formerly called the AC Dance Co). This group, which takes class and rehearses together on Monday evenings, will perform twice per session along with other regular school ensembles. To qualify, a student must take only one ballet class per week in addition to the ensemble.
Placement decisions regarding level and ensemble are made by the Artistic Director for the well-being of each individual student. Students who have questions about their placement may e-mail the Artistic Director, or schedule a consultation. Contact the front desk for more information.