The answer is that ballet is the foundation for all other forms of dance. It gives a student control, strength, poise, coordination, flexibility, expression, technique, terminology, and grace that is used in learning tap, jazz, lyrical, and modern dance. Ballet is not only for the body; it also exercises the mind.

All of the above reasons are important, but more than anything else, ballet gives you discipline. This discipline will spill over into other areas of your life, as you grow older. In ballet you must go through all forms of exercise in a specific order to teach you how to use and develop the muscles in your body properly. Every exercise has a beginning, middle, and an end; just like projects and learning situations one faces in life.

Last, but not least, ballet is something you can take with you all your life. You can always do stretches, pliés and relevé, even in the smallest of rooms. It’s the best way to stay in shape, physically and mentally.

We recommend ballet training for all students studying other forms of dance. This will enhance their progress and allow them to receive the most benefits from each style.

Dance training will never be wasted, for it nurtures good breathing action, coordination, poise, discipline, quick reaction, memory, stamina, and an air of self-confidence and presence. All these qualities are of importance to young people setting out in life, as well as those already on the journey.

Students who are at least 11 years old (or entering 6th grade) who wish to train “sur les pointe” must take at least two 1 ½ hour ballet classes per week for at least 1 year to be considered for this very demanding course of work.

Students must be dedicated to lessons during the summer months and must continue to exhibit excellent classroom etiquette, grooming and dedication to the art of ballet. Final decision as to who will be placed “en pointe” will be made by Juleigh Holley.