Classical Ballet
The foundation for all dance forms, IDT has a very strong classical ballet conservatory program with a set curriculum standard for each level. Focus is on proper body placement, dynamic movement; freedom of movement and artistry, energy, performance opportunities that include classical ballets, and contemporary and original works all part of a dancer’s performing arts training in the 21st century! Our curriculum for all classes includes life lessons and how their training applies to the child growing into responsible adults beyond the dance floor.
Teachers have different training backgrounds they are permitted to present to our students, while staying balanced with our curriculum standards and styles. We feel it’s important to expose students to different styles so that they are well equipped for auditions or diverse requests from future teachers or choreographers. Teachers meet several times a year to continue to discuss ways to improve curriculum based on needs of the students at the current time.
Pointe Requirements
Students are required to attend a minimum of three, 1.5 hour ballet technique classes per week to dance en pointe, and must have established that they have been doing so for some time before pointe shoe testing will be granted. All new students to IDT are required to have approval from the director of the school before wearing their pointe shoes to class- which includes shoe purchase approval and personal instructions on shoe sewing, preparation and care. New pointe students (under 1 year on pointe) should expect to wear their shoes 1 – 2x per week or as advised by the director.
Dress Code for All Levels: All students are required to have their hair pinned/secured away from the face, NO ponytails.
Girls: Class colored leotard for their level and theatrical pink tights and pink leather ballet slippers with elastics securely sewn on. No tee shirts, shorts, skirts, jewlery, etc., as instructed in your student handbook.
Boys: White Leotard, Black tights or shorts, dance belt, white socks and white ballet slippers with elastics securely sewn on.
As many IDT ballet classes have a live pianist, a small monthly accompanist fee may apply, students will be informed of which classes.
Ballet I
Ages 7-8 (6.5 by approval). 1 hour per week required. Students usually remain in level for 2 years. Class Leotard Color: Dark Purple
Ballet II
Ages 9 – 10. Two, one hour classes per week required before promotion to level III. Students usually remain in level for 2 years. Leotard Color: Burgundy.
Ballet III
Placement by level. Minimum of two, 1.5 hour ballet classes per week required, 3 recommended (+ pre-pointe classes when preparing for promotion to level IV). Leotard color: Forest Green.
Ballet IV
Placement by level/audition. Minimum of three, 1.5 – 2 hour ballet technique classes per week required, four recommended, + pointe classes. Leotard Color: Royal Blue. Conditioning required as well as jazz and/or contemporary. Students are encouraged to add on at least one lower level class.
Ballet V
Placement by level/audition. Minimum of four (daily 5 – 6 per week or more recommended) Ballet classes per week (equal to 6+ hours technique) plus pointe, contemporary, jazz technique and conditioning classes required. Any split level IV/V is allowed as at least 4th class only with the exception of comprehensive track students who have already been through sufficient training and are approved by the director. This is for the safety of our students. Level VI classes are an add on to Level V. Leotard Color: Black
Pointe
Students are required to attend three, 1.5 hour ballet technique classes per week to dance en pointe, and must have established that they have been doing so for some time before pointe shoe testing will be granted. All new students to IDT are required to have approval from the Director of the school before wearing their pointe shoes to class- which includes shoe purchase approval and personal instructions on shoe sewing, preparation and care. New pointe students (under 1 year on pointe) should expect to wear their shoes 1 – 2x per week or as advised by the director.
Variations Classes and Rehearsals
Variations classes are offered during Summer Intensives and as workshops throughout the school year. Rehearsals for annual Nutcracker, Season Performances and other events are scheduled throughout the year and worked into the class schedule. Rehearsal fees may apply.
