Classes Offered During 2007
Melody Movement* Early Learning (Formally called Movement to Music)
2-3 years and 3-4 years.
These classes start from the young age of 2 years old. Boys and girls can learn to dance with Melody Bear* in the specially designed Melody Movement* classes. The classes are designed to promote young childrens physical fitness, coordination and early learning skills. The Melody Movement class introduce children to dance and movement using the natural actions of the body such as walking, running, jumping, skipping, hopping and galloping. Through regular participation in the classes, children develop listening and social skills, sound and rhythmic skills, spatial awareness and confidence. Dance is learnt through creativity and stimulation of the imagination. A variety of props are used in class to keep interest and aid with children's learning. The classes for 3-4 year olds are more disciplined than the 2-3 year old classes, which concentrate more on free movement. Classes have no more than 10 children participating (often class have around 5 children as we run the classes on demand) and children can bring a teddy or soft toy with them to class. If children are confident to be left on thier own parents are invited to have a cup of tea/coffee in the waiting room while the children are in classes. Parents may participate with their child in the classes for 2-3 years - so mum and dad don't forget your dancing shoes! Note: if you cannot attend any of the classes scheduled on the timetable please let us know of your interest. We will, where possible, run extra classes on other days/times if there is enough demand.
Tap
Recommended age 3 years and over (adult classes available)
The classes start with a warm up to loosen the ankles and knees for clear tap sounds. Various techniques are used to develop rhythm and style. Exam and show work is covered in classes demonstrating rhythmic abilities which are developed throughout the year. Shows such as Tap Dogs and Stomp to 42nd Street and Crazy For You highlight the great diversities of style and music in tap dancing. Tap is a gentle, rhythmical and enjoyable way to keep fit.
Ballet
Recommended age 3 years and over (adult classes available)
Ballet has a technique, which is the foundation of all types of dance. Classes concentrate on poise and control of the body. Barre and Centre exercises increase in difficulty with age and experience. Steps learnt throughout barre and centre exercises are used in routines and help develop each child's self-expression.
Modern Jazz
Recommended age 3 years and over (adult classes available soon)
This is a most enjoyable class as the children feel that they are really dancing! We start with a warm-up to strengthen and develop flexibility in the muscles and most importantly to prevent injury. Various dance techniques are taught and these increase in difficulty with age and ability. Music and styles studied vary from chart, stage shows, hip-hop, lyrical and Jazz to name a few. Routines worked upon throughout the year are suitable for Exams and Shows. New Street Jazz classes available for 12 years and over.
Musical Theatre
Recommended age 4-years and above.
This Musical Theatre class is unique to the academy and consists off 2½ hours training in Dance, Drama and Singing. Experienced teachers are employed in their respective fields to deliver an all round education in their area of expertise. Areas covered in Dance classes include styles of dance and choreography in musicals. Drama classes will cover musical works and plays. Singing classes will enable students to strengthen their voices and allow them to explore a wide range of vocal styles from pop to choral and musicals.
Third and Forth terms will involve the preparation for the end of year Musical, in which all students will be give an equal opportunity to participate. Often shows are double cast so that more children have the opportunity to play a lead part. Students will not only get the chance to put into practical use the skills that they have learnt throughout the year but will also acquire the knowledge on other aspects of staging a production ie. costumes, publicity, set and props. Please note that to give every student a fair and equal opportunity especially at show time, class sizes are limited for both junior and senior classes. Extra dance classes in Modern-Jazz, Tap and Ballet are offered to Musical Theatre pupils at a reduced rate. Please ask for details.
NEW for 2007: 1 hour Musical Theatre for 4 - 7 year olds. This class offers 3 x 20 minute classes in Singing, Dance and Drama to help build confidence and discipline in preparation for moving up to the Junior Classes.
Drama
Recommended age 8 years and above.
Areas such as stagecraft, script work, mime and improvisation will be studied. These classes will run dependant on numbers. Private tutoring is also available on request.
* 'Melody Bear' and 'Melody Movement' syllabus are registered trade marks of Jill Ewing.
...NEXT PRODUCTION...
Back To The 80's
5th - 8th June 2007
Oklahoma!
19th - 23rd June 2007