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Cornish College of the Arts

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Preparatory Dance FAQ

What age is a good starting point for ballet?

The prep program offers creative movement classes to children ages 4 and up. Ballet I is offered twice a week to the young dancer who is mature enough to understand the structure and demands of a ballet class. At this level, the student is introduced to the basic ballet positions and begins working at the barre. The child is approximately between the ages of 7-9 and entering second grade.

When do you start pointe work?

Pointe readiness is contingent upon many factors. Students entering Intermediate Ballet I are considered candidates for pointe work. However, the faculty assesses each student independently to determine the appropriate timing. Physical strength, strength of technique, type of foot and length of study are taken into consideration. The average age is between 11 and 12.

How many performance opportunities does the prep program offer?

Students in the Intermediate levels are encouraged to join the Junior Dance Company. The company performs twice a year at the Shorecrest Performing Arts Center. Rehearsals take place on Saturdays, so the student must be committed to the rehearsal schedule. All students participate in an end-of-the year demonstration.

What is your attendance policy?

The Preparatory Program is designed for the serious dancer. With this in mind, it is important that the student maintains excellent attendance! We do take daily attendance and hold the student accountable, however, we understand that conflicts and illness do occur. In this case, we ask the parent to call in ahead of time so that we can excuse the student.

Do you have a dress code?

Most definitely! Each level is required to wear the appropriate leotard and color assigned to their level. Pink tights are worn at all levels, except in the Creative Dance-Primary levels. These children wear pink anklet socks. Hair must be neatly tied back in a bun. Boys are required to wear black tights, white short-sleeved t-shirt or leotard and white ballet slippers with white socks. Please check the complete dress requirements »

Where do you recommend I purchase shoes, leotards, tights etc.?

Dance boutiques in the area that have our dress code requirements:

Do you have an open house?

For new students, we encourage you to make an appointment and we are happy to give you an orientation to our program at any time. Parents are welcome to attend our open house in November.

How do I apply to the prep program?

A placement class for the upper levels is required in the fall, please call ahead to make an appointment @ 726-5034. This is an informal audition class to determine the best placement for the student. As the prep program does not discriminate, we always accommodate the student who is interested in investing in our program if they are able to meet the demands of the schedule and have the appropriate skills.

Is there an evaluation process for each student?

Students in the program receive a written evaluation from each one of their teachers at the beginning of January. In addition, the older students schedule a conference once a year with their teacher. Additional counseling is offered to the student who is interested in pursuing a career in dance once they reach junior year in high school. This mentoring helps prepare the student for the next phase of their life.

Is there a summer program?

Each summer 2 sessions are offered to all students. Teachers from the regular program in addition to outside guest teachers are brought in for the duration of the program.

Where do your students go after they graduate?

The prep program boasts illustrious alumni. Among many of the fine institutions students have graduated on to include the; Graham Company, Houston Ballet, Juilliard, Fordham, Boston College, Barnard College, Interlochen Arts Academy, N.C. School of the Arts, Dayton Ballet, Colorado Ballet and S.F. Ballet School.