About Ballet at HPSD
When enough time is spent achieving optimal technique before introducing new vocabulary, it is easier for the student to learn more difficult steps while maintaining the ability to perform the basics at peak standards.
Ballet For Little Ones
Dancers under the age of seven are introduced to our program through a series of basic movement classes rooted in ballet fundamentals, providing a solid foundation for expansion into any form of dance.
These age-appropriate classes are fun, playful, and carefully structured to maximize the enjoyment and personal growth of our littlest dancers. Accompanied by live pianists and instructed by dancers who are active in the world of professional ballet.
Ballet classes for dancers up to age 7 begin with First Steps (for toddlers aged 18 - 36 months together with a parent or caregiver) and progress to Creative Movement (for 3 & 4 year-olds) before moving on to Pre-Ballet (for dancers aged 4-7).
Ballet For Dancers 7 to 18
Ballet I
Ages: 7 years and up
Class length: 60 minutes
Recommended class load: once a week
Ballet I is an introduction to ballet with an emphasis on posture and correct body placement.
Ballet II
Ages: 8 years and up
Class length: 60 minutes
Recommended class load: twice a week
In Ballet II, steps become more complex as students focus on the coordination of arm and leg movements.
Ballet III
Ages: 9 years and up
Class length: 75 minutes
Recommended class load: three times a week
Ballet III begins with a barre workout to build strength and flexibility through quick dance movements and demi-pointe work. After barre, students practice technique in the center, focusing on adagio, stamina in jumps, and pirouettes. From the center, students move into across-the-floor work, which combines the skills stressed in the beginning of class with turning and leaping exercises.
Ballet IVA & IVB
Ages: 11 years and up
Class length: 90 minutes
Recommended class load: three to four times a week
Ballet IV begins with a 45-minute-long barre to further develop flexibility. Focus on intricate movement intensifies, as do strengthening exercises specifically designed to prepare students for pointe work.
Ballet V
Ages: 13 years and up
Class length: 90 minutes
Recommended class load: three to four times a week
In Ballet V, class begins with a 45-minute barre focused on flexibility and increasingly difficult movements. In Ballet V, the focus on pointe work increases. Students who have not passed their physical and written examinations for pointe readiness will prepare through demi-pointe work, and students who are en pointe will begin to spend more time on pointe work.
Ballet VI
Ages: 14 years and up
Class length: 90 minutes
Recommended class load: four to five times a week
The syllabus for Ballet VI is built on increasing complexity, stamina, and memory and recall. In Ballet VI, pointe shoes may be worn for the duration of class with instructor permission.
Floor Barre
Ages: 10 years and up
Class length: 60 minutes
Combines basic ballet technique with principles and movements borrowed from yoga and Pilates. With its innovative approach to stretching, strengthening, and breathing, Floor Barre builds core strength and corrects body alignment and posture issues, helping students become attuned to their body's movements. Originally developed to prevent dancer injuries, this mat-based class uses nothing but the dancer's own body weight for resistance, resulting in a low-impact but highly effective workout. Wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared to work barefoot.