| Pre-Professional Dance Program |
The student would choose to focus on either Ballet or Jazz, etc. There is crossover between the 2 programs.
Participants have made the decision to pursue dance professionally and have demonstrated considerable mastery in the Art and are willing to participate in rigorous and broad training. This training program would have the student dancing at a professional level by the time they graduate high-school.
Curriculum includes very intensive, including multiple dance forms, master classes and weekend dance workshops. Incorporation of dance health, diet and other considerations into lifestyle, Participation in many activities that increase the student's awareness of the greater world of dance, including attending many professional dance events, intensive summer study, repertoire classes, exploration of career opportunities, teacher training and private coaching sessions.
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Characteristics and Requirements:
Age: Most students are in the 7th to 12th grade, (12 to 18 yrs old) College students could be included in program.
Admission: Admission into the program is by audition/interview of advanced students demonstrating focus and commitment, having completed Levels I thru III and with acceptance by the Director.
Class: 2 classes per week and above, depending on the level. See "Course of Study" below.
Class Size: Technique classes limited to 12 students. General classes limited to 18, Some classes may be smaller.
Students must continue to meet program requirements to remain in the program.
Rehearsal Classes: These will be added as required, in preparation for performance, at no additional charge.
Dress: Appropriate dance attire.
Dance Styles: Ballet and Theater Dance (Jazz, Tap & Lyrical).
Performance: Two major performances per year with participation in additional smaller productions and recitals. Student will perform as a lead dancer or soloist or in small groups. Emphasis will be placed on gaining broad performance experience.
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Goal: A student should attain Level VIII by the time they graduate high-school, (the highest level).
Benefit: A student who achieves at this highest level will receive all the benefits of this most rigorous physical & mental training; Balance, coordination, physical strength, Discipline and mental sharpness, confidence, self-esteem, and an intuitive understanding of the Art, grace and beauty. The student will be well prepared to begin a professional career as a dancer.
Workshops: Eligible to participate in the Company Workshop, based on level of achievement.
Special Events: Students can participate in school special events, receptions, movie screenings and other social activities with students in this program.
Class Size: Smallest class sizes for certain repertoire and technique classes. Personal attention from the teachers and the Director on a regular basis.
Discount: Discount in tuition expense beyond what is available to the Intensive students based on the number of classes per week.
Scholarship: Based on financial need and merit is available for advanced students.
Performance: The advanced students in this program will have the most visible dance roles and solos.
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Pre-Professional Course of Study for Ballet: For the purposes of this schedule it is assumed that each level will take approximately 18 months to complete. The actual progress of any individual can vary based on different factors.
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Level I - Ballet Basics Part 1, 1st grade, ages 6 - 7 years old, 1 or 2 classes per week depending on physical coordination and maturity.
Level II - Ballet Basics Part 2, beginning in January of the 2nd & 3rd grade, ages 7 - 9 years old. The student can expect to take 3 - 4 ballet classes per week.
Level III - Ballet Basics Part 3, including beginning Pointe, 4th & 5th grade, ages 9 - 11 years old. The student can expect to take 4 - 5 ballet classes per week, plus 1 class in another dance style.
Level IV - Beginning pointe, perfecting and "cleaning up" technique previously learned, beginning in January of the 5th grade, 11 - 13 years old. The student can expect to take 5 - 6 ballet classes per week, plus 1-2 classes in other dance styles.
Level V - Increasing quality, more turns, higher jumps, beats on jumps, etc..., 7th & 8th grade, 12 - 14 years old. The student can expect to take 8 - 10 ballet classes per week, plus 2 classes in other dance styles.
Level VI - Beginning Virtuosity - beginning of Artistry, working with the music, subtlety of expression and gesture, Beginning in January of the 8th grade, 14 - 16 years old. The student can expect to take 8 - 10 ballet classes per week plus 2-3 classes in other dance styles. Solo classes and private coaching are also recommended
Level VII - Virtuosity Part One - at the company level; Performance learning and refining, 10 and 11th grade, 15 - 17 years old. This level is not currently available at American Ballet School.
Level VIII - Virtuosity Part Two - Apprentice to company, beginning in January of 11th grade, 17 - 18 years old. This level is not currently available at American Ballet School.
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Schedule: Classes are held six days per week, Monday through Friday, 4:00 to 9:00 PM and Saturday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Minimum Requirements: Students must meet minimum program requirements for attendance, etc... in order to remain in the program.
New Classes: New classes are roughly aligned with the Wake County academic calendar. Classes begin in late August. It is possible for students to join the program at any time during the year.
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