Class Descriptions

Ballet & Tap Combination

Our Petite (ages 3-4) and Youth (ages 5-8) programs feature introductory combination Ballet and Tap classes that are age appropriate and FUN! These programs allow young children to explore music appreciation, creative movement, and storytelling while developing strong listening skills, poise, and proper body-alignment.

All dance steps will be broken down for young dancers to understand and learn successfully. Students will engage in simple exercises to develop balance, coordination, body strength, and dance technique. These classes are structured to be fun and engaging, but will also instill proper dance decorum and a foundation for strong dance technique.

Intro

Elite's Introductory classes are designed for the beginning teen, or for the experienced dancer who wants to add a new style to their repertoire. Intro classes can be taken without any other class requirements.

Elite

Our Elite program is designed for the more serious and dedicated dancer. These classes are all individually 60 - 120 minutes in length and are based on skill, rather than age. Classes include Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pre-Pointe/Pointe, and Contemporary. The dance director is in charge of making individual level placements.

Ballet

Ballet is the foundation of all dance forms. Classes begin at the barre where dancers perform movement sequences to develop strength, coordination, balance and proper alignment. These skills are reinforced through center and across-the-floor combinations. The class will focus on the fundamental positions, technique and terminology and is designed to develop strength, balance, and artistry in the young dancer.

Pointe

For the most advanced Ballet dancers in which a ballet dancer supports all body weight on the tips of fully extended feet within pointe shoes. EDA's Pointe instructors have immense knowledge in human physiology and anatomy, and an in-depth understanding of how to assess when a student is ready to safely begin dancing en pointe.

Tap

Tap is a form of dance by using the shoe as well as the floor, as a percussive instrument. Wearing specially-designed shoes with metal taps on the balls and heels of the foot, dancers will learn musicality, timing, syncopation, music theory, and how to create rhythms with their toes and heels.

Jazz

Jazz is an excellent class for the dancers who are interested in further developing and strengthening their dance technique. Jazz includes elements of Ballet and Modern technique. We work to develop a solid technical base. The dancers will learn a variety of jumps and turns as well as innovative choreography in this upbeat class. This class will feature a variety of Jazz styles.

Contemporary

Contemporary is a dance genre that encourages freedom of expression, improvisation, innovation and the creative exploration of movement. It incorporates certain elements of Ballet, Modern dance, and Jazz.

Hip Hop

Hip Hop is a fast-paced and energetic dance style using the latest street/urban dance moves set to Hip Hop music. It encompasses a wide range of street styles including breaking, locking, and popping. Hip Hop class also focuses on developing rhythm and coordination, while encouraging individual style. These 45-60 minute classes follow current trends in dance and music and include a warm-up, conditioning, basic-intermediate technique styles as well as introductions to new styles of choreography. Ballet and Jazz classes are not required, but are highly encouraged.