Ballet  classes teach grace and

beauty while building strength,

endurance and confidence...

There are two forms from which to choose for your ballet training  Cecchetti and Non-Syllabus (free style) ballet classes.  Both forms of ballet are very reputable, and develop a strong, technical dancer.  These are also preparatory classes that give students the foundation for more advanced training in ballet. Many students learn both methods of ballet.

CECCHETTI SYLLABUS

(10 yrs - advanced)

Cecchetti method offers class levels that progress from Grades I - VII and Diploma levels.  Students will be expected to memorize terms, as well as "barre" and "centre" combinations from a syllabus book which will need to be purchased at the start of the year.  When the students are prepared, a professional examiner will be brought to South Dakota to administer a nationally certified exam.  Depending upon the dancers natural ability, students can progress through a level anywhere between one and three years.  It is important to note that the instructor will make the decision on when a dancer is prepared to take an exam.

The Dance Gallery is the only school in Sioux Falls that offers this method that encourages students to be nationally examined.  For more information on this method of ballet instruction, click here for the Cecchetti Council of America national website.

NON-SYLLABUS BALLET CLASS

(beginner to advanced)

Non-Syllabus classes are offered to students in beginner levels through advanced levels (Pre-Professional) on a progressive basis.  Non-Syllabus classes have a free style format that encompass many different ballet techniques, including Cecchetti and Russian.

Emphasis will be placed on developing:
1) Responsive suppleness and strength of the body.
2) A conscious and artistic approach to movement.
3) Diversity, adaptability, stamina, and memorization.
4) Strictness in form and technique, while allowing artistic expression. 
5) Application and appreciation of artistry in dance.

 SUR LE POINTE 

(by invitation of the ballet instructor only)

Pointe work is available as part of the intermediate and advanced class curriculum.  The student must have several years of proper ballet training, and will be notified by the ballet instructor when ready to start pointe.  It is required that the students be enrolled in a minimum of two ballet classes per week to prevent injury. The two classes must be ballet, and not other dance forms.  It is important to note that Dance Gallery will not place students on pointe before they are fully prepared.

BALLET BASICS 

(ages 7-9) 

This class curriculum will be geared as preparation for a more intense ballet program. Students will begin learning the basics of ballet, terminology, and theory of ballet movement.  There will be heavy emphasis on proper posture and body alignment, feet and arm positions, and a basic understanding and love of classical music.  This is a 45 minute class held once a week.

KINDER-MOVEMENT 

(ages 5-6) 

This class will be conducted similarly to Ballet Basics, but geared to a younger age group.  The emphasis of this class will be on left/right understanding, body coordination, and basic ballet movements with classical music. This 30 minute class is held once a week.

CREATIVE MOVEMENT 

(ages 3-4) 

This 30 minute class is fun for all young children.  During class, the students will utilize props such as streamers, balls, and fabric to encourage movement.  The young dancers will learn how to function in a group setting, and how to follow directions.  This class will emphasize body awareness, rhythm, right and left identification, and interpreting the music with dance.  This class held once a week.