Adult Class & Level Descriptions

 

Dance Class Descriptions
Ballet

Focuses on exercises, techniques and steps of classical ballet with an emphasis on terminology and correct body alignment. Develops an aesthetic awareness of the art of classical ballet. Includes a warm-up at the barre with center floor work and combinations.

 

Ballroom and Latin Styles

Covers the basics of ballroom dance favorites like the Fox Trot, Tango and Waltz along with Latin styles such as the Cha Cha, Salsa and Rumba.

 

Classical Ballet Barre

Classical ballet barre is a perfect class for those who want to get their ballet class in, but only have 60-minutes. Although the entire class will occur at the barre and follow the traditional progression of exercises, some center exercises, such as pirouettes and petite allegro will be included. The focus of class will be on proper technique and postural alignment, while inherently strengthening the body and increasing flexibility. It is recommended for those who have at least one year of ballet technique experience.

 

Contemporary

Characterized by its versatility, Contemporary dance can be danced to any style of music and united with other dance forms to create a new style of movement. Students learn to use their bodies in a variety of ways. Technique, body alignment, and emotion are essential to establishing a mind-body connection. Contemporary dance features a wide variety of dance techniques, reflecting its melting pot nature.

 

Calming Contemporary (Candle-Lit)

This class explores movement, breath work, and mindfulness meditation techniques geared toward calming the nervous system’s fight or flight
response. This class consists of floor work based on somatic practices, contemporary modern movement techniques (low impact) guided by breath, body weight exercises based on internalization and mindfulness, and guided self-massage techniques aimed at muscle release and deepening stretch.

 

Advanced Contemporary

Builds strength in the center of the body. Traditional modern dance, release techniques and intense athleticism are combined to attain a grounded sense of freedom within the body. Designed to have a central focus throughout all of the exercises and the final combination so students can concentrate on one idea from many different angles.

 

Hip Hop

A high-energy dance form using the latest music mixed with movements that are influenced by some of today’s top video choreographers. Hip Hop is a broad collection of urban street dance styles including breaking, popping, locking, turfing, jerkin and krumping and often incorporates elements of freestlying. Classes will provide a structured method of learning various styles of movement in a fun and vibrant environment. Each class will incorporate dance combinations and routines and will encourage individual expression and personal style.

 

Jazz

Jazz dance is an exploration of style and presentation. Rooted in the rhythm of jazz music, jazz dance is a true American art form. Includes a warm-up that develops strength, flexibility, coordination, and dance techniques specific to jazz dance. Includes dynamic choreography set to popular music and encourages individual expression and development of personal style.

 

Intro to Tap

Intro to Tap is designed for students who have never had any previous experience in tap dance. The class will cover basic steps and terminology that will prepare students to move into the Beginning/Intermediate class. Tap dancing is a great way to develop musicality, timing and balance.

 

Tap

Tap dance uses the sound of the tap shoes hitting the floor as a percussive instrument. Tap dance sharpens reflexes and improves memory skills and coordination. Beginning classes will work toward establishing fundamental tap movements, vocabulary and will work on basic rhythms and steps that progress into fun and lively dance combinations. More advanced classes will involve more intricate rhythms and combinations. Tap dancing is a great way to develop musicality, timing and balance.

 

Theater Dance

Drawing from many dance styles, theater dance incorporates elements of acting combined with dance as it pertains to musical theatre. Classes will focus on proper technique and musicality and will include upbeat choreography from popular musicals.

 

50+ Classes (Ballet, Tap, Yoga & Jazz)

Danceworks 50+ classes are geared to students age 50 and older who are returning to dance or starting dance for the first time. Students can choose from a variety of movement styles that will help gain mobility, strength and flexibility while improving memory, balance and sharpening reflexes. Danceworks’ faculty are experienced professionals that specialize in working with mature adults. Danceworks 50+ classes are exhilarating and motivating as well as a fun way to meet new friends.

Dance Fitness Class Descriptions

Progressing Ballet Technique 

Intensity/Impact Level: Moderate
At least 1 year of ballet technique is required.

Progressing Ballet Technique is an innovative program developed by renowned Australian ballet dancer and master teacher, Marie Walton-Mahon for students to understand the depth of training muscle memory in achieving their personal best in classical ballet and other dance forms. The method exercises muscle memory to improve student’s understanding of core stability, weight placement and alignment. Each exercise has been developed with care and guidance with a team of physiotherapists.

 

Props Required: Please bring a physio ball (55 cm for heights 4′ 8″ to 5′ 3″ or 65 cm for heights 5′ 4″ to 5′ 10″) and small Pilates/fit ball measuring 7-9″ diameter – a latex playground or dodge ball will work well. A yoga mat is also recommended.

 

African Dance Workout

Intensity/Impact Level: Moderate-High

Blends African dance, aerobic movement and live drumming into a cardiovascular workout like no other.

 

Barre Workout

Intensity Level: Moderate-High, Impact Level: Low

Fuses Pilates, yoga and resistance training with ballet barre work and dance; appropriate for all ability levels. Uses inspiring music and various props, keeping the workout fun, motivating, and continuously moving.

 

Props required: A set of light hand weights – 2-4lbs, Small Pilates/Fit Ball measuring 7-9″ diameter, Yoga Mat, Chair or Counter Top to Substitute for Ballet Barre, Pillow/Rolled towel for under the knees

 

Pilates 

Intensity Level: Moderate, Impact Level: Low

Contemporary Pilates Mat with Props. Pilates utilizes breath, alignment, mobility and strength to bring your entire body back into balance, enhance your posture and teach you functional healthy movement. Build awareness between your mind, body and breath to leave feeling connected and centered. Pilates is a great way to cross train and complement dancing or other athletic pursuits! (Mats and props provided).

 

POUND

Intensity Level: Moderate, Impact Level: Low

Sweat, Sculpt, & ROCK with POUND, the fastest growing group fitness phenomenon inspired by the infectious, energizing fun of drumming! POUND is a full body cardio jam session championed by fitness rebels around the world. Weighted drumsticks add 1/4 lb extra weight to each movement, throwing the body off balance, creating contraction in the core and stabilization system. Improve your rhythm, timing, coordination, speed, agility, endurance and musicality.

 

Tap Dance Workout

Intensity/Impact: Moderate-High

An aerobic approach to a tap dance class, this class strengthens and tones muscles and provides a great alternative to other traditional workouts. Introduces new tap steps and increases your heart rate to burn calories and strengthen ankles, knees and hip joints. This workout class will also incorporate light weights and various props for strengthening and conditioning. Students should have knowledge of basic tap skills—try our Introduction to Tap class for one session before joining this class.

 

Zumba 

Intensity/Impact: Moderate-High

Come join the party! Zumba is a Latin-inspired workout designed to increase cardiovascular endurance, as well as help with balance and coordination. Using upbeat Latin music together with cardiovascular exercise, Zumba is aerobic dancing that is lots of fun and easy to learn.

Class Level Descriptions
“Intro” Classes

Designed for students who have no previous training or experience. Intro classes are progressive and will build from one class to the next to teach the fundamentals.

 

“Beginning” Level Classes

For students who have just begun their dance training or are returning to dance after a long hiatus, with an interest in mastering the fundamentals of the form and basic terminology. Most students who study once a week are encouraged to remain in that skill level for a minimum of one year.

 

“Beginning/Intermediate” Level Classes

Move at a slightly quicker pace than beginning classes and will develop greater movement vocabulary.

 

“Intermediate” Level Classes

For students who have had at least two or more years of consistent training and are comfortable with the given dance discipline. Intermediate students should have a strong interest in improving technical skills and executing more challenging movement sequences.

 

“Intermediate/Advanced” Level Classes

Move at a slightly quicker pace than intermediate classes and will develop greater movement vocabulary.

 

“Advanced” Level Classes

For students with many years of training who have who have a high level of proficiency and understanding of movement and alignment concepts.


Questions? Contact Amy Brinkman-Sustache, Director of Education, at 414. 277. 8480 x6002 or via email.