Frequently Asked Questions 

 

Is only ballet available at Ballet Theatre?

No. Tap, Jazz, Modern and sometimes tasteful Hip Hop is also available. However, it is recommended that every dancer take some ballet. Learning ballet instills a discipline and teaches fundamental techniques that strengthen a dancer's abilities to perform any dance form.

Does my child have to participate in competitions?

No. Ballet Theatre emphasizes friendship, teamwork and having students challenge themselves. That said: competitions can provide performing opportunities and an environment that can prepare a dancer for more intense experiences such as auditioning that they could experience if they choose dance as a career. So, select competition opportunities are offered, but again, on a strictly optional basis.

Is the dancing and costumes "age appropriate"?

Of course tastes in dance and fashion, like many other things, vary greatly from person to person. And while we understand that these tastes and fashions change from year to year, the dances and costumes at Ballet Theatre are always selected with the priority of creating an experience that all parents, students and other family members will be comfortable with and take pride in.

Am I going to have to buy multiple and expensive costumes during the year?

No. Ballet Theatre maintains a large inventory of costumes that are reused from year to year. Why spend a lot of money on a costume that will be worn once? The cost of costume use is included in the modest year-end performance fee.

Will my child be given appropriate attention even if he or she doesn't advance as quickly as other students?

Absolutely. Every child learns and advances at their own pace. This can often present a challenge for students and teachers who need to balance both dance education and social dynamics in the classroom. There is no way to guarantee a child won't lose interest, but we do guarantee to teach every child and strive to realize the fullest potential of every student.

Is there a year-end recital?

Ballet Theatre produces a year-end performance each year. Rather than a long, repetitive sequence of unrelated dances, the school works during the year to bring together a show that everyone is going to enjoy. The show has a theme and usually some sort of story and is no longer than two hours. The students are part of a show and not just showing off the dances they’ve learned. The students experience all the aspects of being part of a production and it makes for an exciting and memorable finish to the year.

My child is very sensitive. She has tough time dealing with criticism. Will she fit into this environment?

A disciplined approach to teaching dance (or anything else) does not have to be negative in any way. When we speak of discipline, we mean structured and focused, not punishing. We believe that young children and teenagers will respond better to a positive and caring approach to teaching. This will give them a healthy and life-long interest in dance. We don’t equate reinforcement with humiliation or address difficulties with neglect. Each child will be taught in a positive and nurturing manner.

My child is very serious about dance. Can Ballet Theatre provide a path to a professional career?

A career in dance can be a grueling and difficult path to take. It can also be unbelievably fulfilling. A career in dance can follow many paths: performing, choreography, teaching, business, and others. We encourage all students to be well-rounded individuals and never place any demands on students or parents that require any sacrifices academically. We also strive to mentor interested students and advise parents on what they can do to pursue a dance career. For serious students, the Ballet Theatre program is more geared towards preparing a dancer for a college program. For students who show exceptional performing talent and interest, it would be recommended that they audition for a pre-professional school.

What other dance opportunities does Ballet Theatre provide?

We are constantly exploring ways to enhance student’s education and experience. Usually once or twice a year, professional dancers and/or experienced teachers are brought in to teach intensive master classes. Also, at the right point in a students learning, they are encouraged to participate in outside summer programs to experience other perspectives and approaches. We also maintain close ties with the dance community and assess outside performing opportunities for students. Dance, like other art forms can be interpreted and practiced in many different ways. Gaining a broad understanding and appreciation for these different perspectives is an important part of every student’s education.