Ballet
The first levels of the ballet program begin an earnest study of classical ballet. Barre work is introduced with a strong focus on individual turnout, foot development, and port de bra. As dancers progress into the intermediate levels, the faculty carefully evaluates each student's progress and potential for pointe work while continuing to nurture the desire to dance. The Pre-Professional Program begins advanced ballet technique and pointe.
Introduction to Ballet, Ballet I, and II
This class is for students ages 6-8 and begins a wider study of ballet vocabulary with a greater focus on correct posture and placement. The importance of concentration, self-control, and discipline are emphasized and necessary for the progression to Ballet I. Basic steps are performed in the center, across the floor, and in simple pathways. Ballet Level I of the ballet program begins an earnest study of classical ballet. Barre work is introduced with a strong focus on individual progress, foot development, and port de bra. As dancers progress into the intermediate levels, the faculty carefully evaluates each student's progress and potential for pointe work while continuing to nurture the desire to dance
Ballet Conservatory
The Pre-Professional Program begins in the upper levels and incorporates advanced ballet technique and pointe. Admission is by teacher evaluation and audition only. This program consists of our most challenging and demanding schedule and provides additional performance opportunities for dancers, along with private coaching and extra classes if desired.
MORE INFORMATION on our Ballet Franklin Website!
Ballet Conservatory Ensemble
This class is designed to expand students' repertoire while improving technique and developing artistry. Dancers will learn challenging variations and ensemble sections from classical ballets such as Paquita and Sleeping Beauty and will work on original choreography with appropriate. There will be a studio showing each trimester to showcase their efforts and put performance skills into practice. Conservatory Ensemble is offered to Ballet levels II-VI.
Standard Ballet Classes
The Standard Track is designed to train and educate students in classical ballet so they may use this knowledge to enhance other disciplines and prepare to enter competitive college dance programs, if desired. Pointe is not offered on this track, allowing for fewer requirements and greater flexibility of schedules. Students will be evaluated for placement in the level to assure continued development and success. Ballet levels A and B meet once a week. Levels C, D and E meet for 90 minutes twice a week. Teacher evaluation is necessary for proper placement.
Recreational Classes
The Recreation Ballet Program is comprised of once-a-week classes to meet the needs of older students with no prior experience who wish to explore the discipline of classical ballet, dancers with some experience who want to continue study for enjoyment, and advanced dancers with limited time in the schedules. All Recreational Levels present a studio demonstration for parents in lieu of Spring Concert.
Character Dance
Character Dance is offered to ballet students of all tracks and levels as a supplement to students' classical ballet training. The class enhances dancers' knowledge of the classics and improves musicality, coordination, use of the upper body, and stage presence. A subdivision of classical dance, character dance is the stylized representation of traditional folk or national dances, mostly from European countries, and uses movements which have been adapted for the theater. Character dance is integral to many classical ballets, including Swan Lake and Paquita. Popular character dance adaptations that are seen in these ballets, such as mazurka and tarantella, are introduced.