The foundation of all dance forms, ballet helps to build a strong base, clean technique and proper alignment, and is accompanied by classical music. Russian technique, also known as Vaganova, is a very expressive style of ballet. Focusing on upper body work and emphasizing musicality. Dancers are encouraged to emote and perform through syllabus work.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 3 & up.
The Cecchetti method of ballet is a style of classical, theatrical dance based on the teachings of the great Italian ballet master Enrico Cecchetti (1850-1928). Graded examinations are scheduled, and qualified examiners are provided for students across Canada. The purpose of these examinations is to give teachers and students specific goals to work toward and to maintain standards of development consistent with international standards. The Cecchetti ballet class tuition is higher to cover the costs of extra classes and workshops which are mandatory for students. All syllabus work will be set prior to the start of classes in September and Sunday rehearsals will be scheduled in the spring.
No choreography will be set in this class. Ages 9 & up.
Pointe is the study of ballet while wearing blocked satin shoes that allow the dancer to raise the body onto the tips of the toes. Dancers must have previous as well as ongoing ballet training.
With the exception of Beginner Pointe class, students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. By audition only, ages 12 & up.
The Association of International Dance Teachers is a South African based
dance society. They have developed an extensive jazz syllabus for students
and instructors alike. Students can take examinations and earn credits which
can be applied towards high school graduation. These highly technical
classes introduce students to jazz terminology, music theory and anatomy.
Exams are optional. No choreography will be set in this class, ages 6 & up.
Jazz is a fun and upbeat style of dance. Classes include warm-up exercises,
stretching, core strengthening work, isolations, across the floor combinations and choreography.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 6 & up.
This class combines jazz dance and tap dance in a one hour dance lesson. This class provides a solid foundation of these two techniques while introducing students to new styles.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 5 & up.
Students will focus on technique and intricate steps/tricks throughout the year. This highly beneficial class keeps dancers in top physical form, improving stamina, flexibility and control.
For technique only - no choreography will be set in this class. Ages 7 & up.
Lyrical is a fusion of ballet and jazz styles, creating a soft and often expressive quality, while interpreting the lyrics of a song. This is often a great introduction to dance as students learn necessary technique and dance skills, but at a relaxed pace. Classes include warm-up exercises, stretching, core strengthening work, isolations, across the floor combinations and choreography.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 7 & up.
Very expressive and grounded, modern is a style of dance that uses ballet technique to its advantage. Emphasizing and originating movement from the torso, it is a highly individualistic and diverse form of artistic expression.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 8 & up.
A collection of systems and methods developed from modern and post-modern dance. Contemporary uses ballet as its foundation, but movement and choreography can vary greatly depending on the inspiration and instructor.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 8 & up.
Classes work towards improving flexibility, strength, agility and control. Dancers will learn how to properly execute acro tricks, similar to the mat component of gymnastics. A combination of stunts, contortion and dance, it is like “art in motion”.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 6 & up.
This dance form incorporates rhythm, timing and coordination. Dancers will learn to produce intricate sounds and rhythms using the taps of their shoes. As they advance, the tempos of the music become faster and the rhythms become more syncopated.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 7 & up.
Musical Theatre / Song and Dance
A dance class that combines dancing and acting. There is a strong emphasis on performance skills as dancers interpret the words in the music through facial expressions, dance steps and body movements. Students also receive vocal coaching in Song and Dance.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 7 & up.
A high energy dance experience that is fun for dancers of all ages. Dancers will perform popular, age appropriate choreography to trendy hip hop music.
Students will learn and perform a dance in the year end recital. Ages 7 & up.
These competitive classes consist of members of the Poise Performing Youth Company. All students must audition annually to become a member of the company. Accepted students showcase strong technique, skill and performance ability. Dedication to their class and willingness to partake in extra rehearsals, conventions, and performances is a must. Commitment level and involvement in outside activities will be taken into consideration when selecting Poise members. Students are not allowed to miss more than 4 competitive classes throughout the year. The company is divided into six groups based on both age and ability, consisting of Micro Minis, Minis, Juniors, Intermediate 1s, Intermediate 2s, and Seniors. Poise Performing Youth Company performs Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Acro, Modern Musical Theatre, Song & Dance and Contemporary at competitions local and abroad. For all styles, with the exception of jazz, competitive students must take a minimum of 2 technique classes per week (either 2 ballet classes, or 1 ballet and 1 jazz tech class), and it is recommended that they take an additional technique class in each style of competitive dance they register for. For students wishing to compete in a jazz program, students must take a minimum of 2 technique classes per week (either 2 ballet classes, or 1 ballet and 1 jazz tech class), as well as 1 tricks class per week (either a regular jazz class or a spins n’ leaps class).
All students interested in performing as a soloist or in a duo/trio must also be a group dancer in the company.