Curricula

The University of Louisville Dance Academy seeks to provide to Louisville and the surrounding region the finest classical dance training available in an academic setting and to make available to students seeking this training a nurturing, safe environment open to all and conducive to learning and to the exploration of all student potentials.

All dance instruction is given in group classes. Classes must have sufficient enrollment. All classes are grouped according to age and dance level. Classes are offered in Ballet Technique and Pointe. The required number of classes per week for each level are the minimal number necessary for satisfactory progress and improvement. If exceptional circumstances make it impossible for a student to take the required quota of classes, we will consider exceptions but strongly advise against it. Please understand that different students progress at different rates and we will always assign students to the class level where they will benefit the most. This means that so-called “promotions” to a higher level are not automatic, and not necessarily related to age or years of study, and changes into a lower level should not necessarily be regarded in a negative light. Our first concern is always where the student will be best placed.

Ballet Technique

(A) MINIMUM AGE: 6 IN AUGUST

Includes instruction of classical ballet technique. Classes are discipline oriented. Three basic levels: Lower Division - 1 to 2 classes per week (Beg., I, II, III), Middle Division - 3 to 4 classes per week (IV, V), Upper Division - 4 to 7 classes per week (Apprentice, Dance Theatre)

(B) ADULT CLASSES
Same basic styles and techniques as taught in the children’s classes adapted to the adult’s maturity, concentration and body development. Adults over age 21 are restricted to adult classes.

Pointe

Prerequisite: Ballet Technique for six semesters
Minimum age: 11
Special study for girls in the technique of pointe. Must be taken in conjunction with ballet technique. Enrollment by audition only.

(Due to the stress pointe work places on foot cartilage, children must be at a certain level of physical development before they begin pointe.)

Boys’ Technique

Classical ballet classes aimed at the specific requirements for male technique are offered in conjunction with ballet technique. Scholarships available.

Community Outreach Programs

Information available upon request. Click on Leap Into Life on our website: www.uofldanceacademy.com

Early Childhood Development

Where exploring play is dance education.© Preschool programs in dance open to 3 years of age - kindergarten. (3-5 in August) Age and developmentally appropriate dance training for the young child moves through 3 distinctive levels: Hop, Skip & Dance; Creative Movement; and Pre-Ballet.

Summer

Classes are offered for Level I through Adults. This is an excellent opportunity to keep in training during the summer and to improve your technique. Intensive training, including specialty classes, is recommended for older students. Summer study is required for promotion. Registration forms will be sent to you through the mail at the end of Spring Semester.