Tap
Tap is a form of dance which incorporates percussive sound. The name comes from the tapping sound made when the small metal plates on the dancer’s shoes touch a hard floor. This lively, rhythmic tapping makes the performer not just a dancer, but a musician. Tap classes help to develop rhythm, style and sound with emphasis on developing proper tap technique, producing clear tap sounds, and having fun!
Contemporary
Contemporary is a dance performance style developed during the mid 20th century and has since grown to become one of the dominant genres for formally trained dancers throughout the world. It is a style of expressive dance that combines elements of several dance genres including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet.
Modern
Modern dance encourages dancers to use their emotions and moods to design steps and choreography. Instead of following a structured code of technique, as in ballet, the modern dancers has a larger and more abstract vocabulary. Another characteristic of modern dance, in opposition to ballet, is the deliberate use of gravity. Whereas classical ballet dancers strive to be light and airy on their feet, modern dancers often use their body weight to enhance movement.
Creative Movement
Creative Movement is a developmentally based program for 3 year olds which stretches their imaginations through movement and music. In this safe, fun environment we promote motor development and rhythmical skills while encouraging differences in creative and imaginative interpretations.
Ballet
Ballet is the foundation of all dance. It is a highly technical form of dance with its own vocabulary. Ballet is part of the core development to all other forms of dance as it is the foundation of turns, leaps, strong arms and pointed feet. As students advance, Patti Rutland Jazz offers pre-pointe and pointe upon teacher approval.
Jazz
Jazz is a term that refers to several related dance styles including roots from African-American ryhthms, tap, ballet, jazz music. Jazz dance evolved from a number of influences including Vaudeville and Broadway. Jazz class will focus on proper dance technique such as isolations of the body, improving performance quality and developing complex rhythms and patterns.
Hip hop
Hip Hop is a high energy, athletic and popular dance style originated on the streets in the late 80’s with break dancing. This style of dance will infuse the latest styles commerical dancing seen in music videos, movies and television shows. Students will be encouraged to step outside the box by bringing their own individual style and personality to the movements. Dancers will have fun as they learn combinations to popular and high-energy music!
Acro
Acro or acrobatics is the art of controlled movements using the flexibility of the back, legs and shoulders. Classes will focus on increasing flexibility, balance, strength, muscle control, discipline and concentration. Students will work on handstands, chin stands, elbow stands, cartwheels, back bends, walkovers, back handsprings, aerials, balance and contortion tricks based on each student’s individual level of experience.