Children can engage in this dance based activity from age 4-5 which has been designed for them to expand their imaginations and creativity. The children are encouraged to interpret various pieces of music with dance movement, mime, poetry and song. The class lasts for 45 minutes and is an enjoyable introduction to ballet and dance.
The Cecchetti method of Classical Ballet offers a complete and well structured system of training which caters for the small child through to the professional dancer and the future teacher. Enjoyment is of prime importance for the young child beginning to dance and the class examinations and performance awards provide ideal opportunities for those attending classes for recreational purposes on a once a week basis. For children wishing to study in greater depth, there are the more technically demanding Grade Examinations. In all the children’s work a steady build up and safe practise are of great importance.
MODERN THEATRE DANCE Modern theatre dance is a rhythmic dance style which originated in America before travelling to the rest of the world. It is seen on the stages of musical productions and is known for its theatrical qualities. The style uses travelling steps, high kicks, leaps and turns which all need strength and flexibility. This is a high energy dance style.
This has evolved as an American form, popularised throughout the world, with debate about its origins coming from African dance, Irish dance and or clog dancing. The dancer uses their feet to strike the floor, beating out different rhythms, with dancers wearing tap shoes which have small metal plates on the toe and heel to give a distinctive sound. Tap dance is a theatrical art form often seen on stage in musicals.
Street dance is a relatively new style of dance originating in America in the late 1970’s. In the ghettos of America, youths would dance in groups and engage in battles of skill, timing and rhythmic interpretation of rap or hip hop music. These groups would be known as a ‘Crew’. The styles of dance they performed are what we recognise today as Street dance, Break dance and Body popping. This dance style grew in popularity throughout the world when it was performed in the films ‘Flash dance’, ‘Electric Bugaloo’ and ‘Step Up' and influences many of the popular music videos which are current today.
