September 8, 2008– June 6, 2009
Students ages 8-18 are eligible to enter the Performing Arts Division, which provides a strong sequential curriculum in classical ballet and contemporary dance and pointe. The classical ballet syllabus is rooted in the classical Russian tradition. The curriculum embraces a wide-reaching contemporary dance syllabus. The dance classes are taught by a renowned faculty and enhanced by the artistry of musicians who accompany the instruction.

Students are provided with performance opportunities in the Strawberry Festival in May, and in Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy. A hallmark of the school is its special relationship with Minnesota Dance Theatre’s company and partnerships with organizations that offer students more arts experiences and challenges to achieve their best.

We recommend that new students take a placement class to determine the appropriate entry level. Please contact the school director to arrange an appointment.

Performing Arts Division Curriculum

The study of classical ballet is approached gradually, developing from the exercises at the barre. Those exercises are brought to the center, starting with simple combinations of steps. Only when the student gains the necessary strength and command of technique, can the beauty and wisdom of classical dancing be revealed.

Level 1

The first year student will learn the barre exercises, focusing on proper placement of the body, the shape of the foot when pointed, the positions of the arms and legs, and the concept of turning the legs out.

Level 2

The second year student will continue building strength through their work at the barre. The young dancers will build on that strength by practicing adagio in the center and learning small jumps.

Level 3

The third year students training will continue building strength. Combining steps will require coordination. Students will begin to learn turns.

Level 4

The fourth year students will continue to learn more complicated steps. Teachers will ask for musicality and artistry. The girls will prepare for pointe work. Boys will take a special class to develop their turns and jumps.

Level 5

The fifth year students will continue to perfect the steps they have been taught. Girls will work on pointe to strengthen their legs and feet. Boys will continue to work on their turns and jumps.

Levels 6, 7, and 8

The intermediate and advanced levels will continue gaining strength and perfecting their technique. Working on variations from famous ballets will help the students work on their artistry and musicality.

Boys Program

MDT&Ii wishes to invest in and grow our boys program in an effort to recruit boys for a comprehensive program in classical dance.  Separate boys classes foster a sense of fraternity, stressing the athleticism indicative of male dancers.  The Dance Institute offers limited financial aid or scholarships, based on ability and financial need for those promising individuals who want to study ballet.

2008-2009 Schedule

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