Class Information
At Ocean Academy of Dance, we offer various styles for children and adults from the age of two.
Whatever your current dance ability we have a range of classes taught by our professional and friendly teachers.
THE BEGINNING… (AGED 2+)
Children’s classes start with Parent and Toddler Ballet from the age of 2, which is a lovely introduction to all kinds of dance. It is an informal class that you can enjoy with your child, following fun themes, dancing with ribbons, instruments and more! Attending the Parent and Toddler class initially helps to settle your child in nicely whilst getting used to their environment, the space, the teachers and some of the steps used. When your child is ready to make the transition to the next level they can attend Pre-Primary Ballet or Primary Modern if they prefer.
BALLET
Ballet is one of the most popular forms of dance to learn, combining technique and artistry. Ballet gives a sound foundation for all other dance styles. The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Imperial Ballet Syllabus is offered, beginning with Pre-Primary Ballet, then Primary, Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and Intermediate. Our Adult Ballet classes are Beginners/General level.
MODERN
Modern theatre dance does not have one definition – it combines Modern dance, Jazz and other dance styles such as Latin, Street Jazz and Musical Theatre, which adapt, develop and evolve with the changing fashion in dance. The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Modern Theatre Syllabus is offered training students to become disciplined and versatile dancers. Modern classes begin with Primary at 3 years, then Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Intermediate and Advanced 1.
TAP
Tap is one of the most enjoyable and rhythmical forms of recreational dance for anyone to try, a great way to learn dance in a relaxed atmosphere. As well as being a physical challenge, learning to tap will give you a real sense of accomplishment. The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) have introduced new syllabi for Tap based on American Rhythm Tap. The choreography is very current using varied styles of music. Children’s classes are offered from the age of 4, beginning with Primary, then Grade 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Intermediate and Advanced 1. Our Adult Tap is a Beginners/General level class; great fun learning to dance and great for improving your fitness level.
STRETCH
This is a great class for senior students to compliment their technique classes that they already attend. Exercises are structured carefully to improve flexibility and core strength, both of which are essential for a dancer.
MUSICAL THEATRE
Our Musical Theatre workshops develop specific theatrical skills (voice, movement, character, performance). Previous courses have focused on well known Musicals – devising, bringing text alive on stage and physical theatre.
CONTEMPORARY WITH MIA
Contemporary dance is a catch-all phrase which can mean something different to communities across a wide range of cultures. You could think of Contemporary Dance as an ‘Umbrella’ term which encompasses many different styles making it a genre in its own right. Contemporary dance allows the dancer to explore the movement potential of their body. Unlike other forms of dance, it is not restricted by set standards or defined styles. Its techniques derive from both classical and modern dance and updating or developing them. Therefore resulting in a hybrid form derived from literature, architecture, visual arts, circus and other artistic disciplines. My Contemporary class is made up of two parts; Technique and Choreography. The Technique section allows the dancers to build upon and develop their dance skills firstly through center exercises working on footwork, use of the spine and placement and positioning of the arms. Secondly through travelling phrases working on moving through the space and use of elevation. The Choreography section is a mixture of Teacher set choreography where the dancers will learn and rehearse movement and teacher led choreographic exercises which will enable the dancers to explore their own movement vocabulary. The dancers will learn to work as a member of a group, the importance of the rehearsal process to enable them to develop as a performer. The result being a final performance piece in a Contemporary Dance style.
To find out more about any of our classes or to have a chat, please contact us.