The dance studio at Première Dance Academy
Ages 3 to 6 years
A fun filled exciting environment where children will begin to learn the elements of creative movement and basic ballet, explore movement qualities, musicality, and gross motor skills which will enhance the development of both their bodies and their minds. Through stories and imaginative activities, the pace of the class is lively and engaging!
At age 6 children are introduced to a more formal class format which prepares them for a Pre-Primary examination.
Ballet is an excellent extra-mural activity that develops muscle tone and strength, improves coordination, develops musicality, improves posture, stimulates the mind and imagination, and encourages a positive self-esteem.
Ages 7 to 12 years
The Primary ballet class is perfect for the beginner and continues the teaching of previous classes. Primary to Grade 4 ballet students will learn exercises at an increased level of formal training consisting of barre and centre work and participate in annual examinations, competitions, festivals and stage productions. A focus on correct posture, placement and comportment of classical ballet, with emphasis on good alignment, flexibility and coordination will ensure a strong foundation of physical and mental understanding necessary for vocational training.
At this age, students may also enrol for Lyrical and Contemporary dance classes – styles that embody various aspects of ballet, jazz and modern dance while still maintaining their autonomy. Lyrical dancing is performed to music with lyrics to inspire movements which express feelings and emotions. Dance Conditioning classes are a valuable addition for this age group in order to stretch and strengthen the body even further.
Although classes at this level are more formal, they are still fun, engaging and cultivate a love for dance!
Ages 13 to 18 years
By combining set syllabus work with unset classes, these Vocational level students work either towards a professional career in dance, a career in teaching dance, or dance solely for the love of the art form participating in annual Cecchetti Classical Ballet examinations, Competitions, Festivals, Eisteddfods and Stage Performances.
Pointe work for girls is gradually introduced and evolves over the years as the feet and ankles strengthen.
At Première Dance Academy we aim to produce dancers with a strong, clean classical technique, beautiful artistry and quality of movement, musicality, and purity of line. Ballet instils beautiful poise and confidence, builds self-esteem and self-discipline in students who take these attributes with them through life.
Contemporary dancers strive to connect the mind and the body through fluid dance movements while stressing versatility and improvisation, unlike the strict, structured nature of ballet.
A Career in Teaching Ballet
Having passed the Cecchetti Classical Ballet Advanced 1 examination, students may enrol at Première Dance Academy to complete their Associate training – a professional and international teaching qualification.