Menlo Park Academy of Dance

The Solo Seal Award is the highest level Vocational Graded examination and focuses on solo performance.

The Vocational Graded Examinations in Dance syllabus provides an in-depth study of ballet, develops technique, music and performance skills, and introduces pointe work for female candidates. It prepares students for a career in dance and is appropriate for students from the age of 11 years.

The Graded Examinations in Dance syllabus provides a broad practical dance education and develops technical, musical and performance skills. It incorporates ballet, free movement, and character dance and is appropriate from the age of six years.

MPAOD offers the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), an internationally recognized portfolio of examinations, which is designed to motivate and encourage students of all ages and levels of ability through a systematic measurement of progress and attainment. Examinations are organized and administered by the RAD Examinations.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

In order to take a class as a drop-in, you need to be registered prior to the class. Registration for drop-in classes

The Adult Ballet program is open to teens and adults who wish to experience this beautiful art form. Class structure is traditional with a barre and center in which the stance, turnout, proper terminology and musicality are introduced. Additional benefits include: - improved balance, agility, strength and posture - increased flexibility - develops core strength Learn and dance in an artistic and respectful studio environment. Dancers are also invited to join our PBT classes to build muscle memory for their Adult Ballet classes.

Acrobatics (Acro for short) focuses on tricks of flexibility or contortion in nature, usually used in dance. These skills are becoming more and more popular in gymnastics, other activities and sports, and focus on body strengthening and control. Benefits include motor coordination, flexibility, balance, agility and self-confidence. Training in Acro overlaps with skills needed in many other sports as well as dance, gymnastics, ice skating and cheer. Classes are styled so that students of all ages and skill levels can enjoy. The goal is for the student to be well rounded and handle exciting choreography for their chosen activity.

Progressing Ballet Technique is an innovative program developed by Australian ballet teacher Marie Walton-Mahon for students to understand the depth of training muscle memory in achieving their personal best in classical ballet. This is the fourth year that PBT classes are being offered at Menlo Park Academy of Dance – one of the only schools on the Peninsula to offer this innovative training system. Classes are taught by Sarah Arnold, one of the very first qualified teachers of PBT in Northern California, is a third level certified PBT instructor.

Musical theater class explores acting and characterization within dance. The focus is on telling a story through whichever character one plays by stepping away from the self into the life of someone (or something) totally new. Choreography to songs from musicals is presented in a mix of styles including jazz, character, hip-hop, contemporary, and ballet. The class will move on to a new musical with new choreography anywhere from a few weeks to a month until preparation for June recital begins with a final selected musical theater number.

Contemporary is taught with a style of ballet that incorporates modern, jazz and neo-classical movements. At times the upper body is exploring and “going beyond” with a range of movements that spill over or twist in an unconventional manner, while the lower half of the body maintains a strong ballet foundation. Contemporary and popular music is used in this class.

Tap is a unique dance form because it allows the dancer to not only be a performer, but a percussive musician as well. Tap derives it’s name from the rhythmic sounds made when the metal plates hit the floor. Tap has been a favorite dance form for almost 200 years and is a staple of the great American Musical, as well as an excellent workout for the legs.

Jazz is a popular dance style found in everything from theater musicals to music videos. Jazz routines are dynamic and energetic, and include moves such as leaps, kicks, jumps, and turns that develop the dancer’s muscle isolation and body control as well as entertain the audience. Students are strongly encouraged to be enrolled in a ballet technique class in order to gain a strong foundation of dance technique.

Lyrical is a contemporary dance style that fuses ballet and jazz techniques in order to use movement to express emotion. Movements in Lyrical dance not only demonstrate control and flexibility, but also interpret the meaning of music and lyrics. Students should be concurrently enrolled in a ballet technique class in order to gain a strong foundation of dance technique.

This class focuses on flexibility and conditioning to further strengthen the students’ technique. The goal of this class is to strengthen the students extension work, foot work, cross training for stamina, and overall flexibility. This class gives the students the opportunity to focus on details of a specific area in their technique they want to work on that they might not have time to work on in other classes. Stretch and strengthening is a way to improve flexibility, but more importantly having the strength to maintain and use flexibility correctly. Lastly, this class gives the students tools and information on how to properly stretch and warm themselves up before any physical activity.

Pre-Dance & Tap is an introductory course that invites children to explore their love of music and dance through movement exercises, songs and games. The structured classes provide a blend of ballet, tap, jazz, and tumbling in a fun and nurturing environment. Designed with growing young bodies in mind, this class will include instruction on basic technique to increase strength, coordination, and confidence. Students will be asked to bring tap shoes for the second week of class. Class level is assigned according to age, determined by the child’s age.

Pre-Ballet is an introductory level course that invites children to explore and enjoy the beautiful discipline of classical ballet. A child’s love of music and dance is fostered in a fun and creative environment that is tailored to a young child’s attentive focus. Young dancers learn basic ballet technique, music appreciation, expression of movement and class decorum to prepare them for more formal classes. Students will also tumble for the last 15 minutes of class. Class level is assigned according to age, determined by the child’s age.

Pointe is offered to students who are have gained an Intermediate level of technique, control of turnout and a physically strong body.

Menlo Park Academy of Dance (MPAOD) offers classical ballet for all levels and ages, from four years to adults and is credentialed by the Royal Academy of Dance, London to offer the RAD syllabus and annual examinations. MPAOD also recognizes and supports students who want to learn classical ballet recreationally, as well as those who seek competitive and pre-professional opportunities. At the Intermediate and Advanced levels, classes are offered in both RAD syllabus and non-syllabus. Our highly accomplished staff and guest teachers make this high art form accessible and enjoyable.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Advanced ballet class for highly skilled dancers. This rigorous class focuses on complex choreography, advanced technique, virtuosity, and performance quality. Dancers are expected to have a strong foundation and significant experience.

Ballet class for children aged 4-5 years. This class introduces the fundamentals of ballet in a fun and engaging way, focusing on basic positions, steps, and musicality. It aims to foster a love for dance and develop coordination and gross motor skills.

Tap dance class for beginners. This class introduces the fundamental steps, rhythms, and techniques of tap dancing. It focuses on developing coordination, timing, and musicality through engaging exercises and simple combinations.

Ballet class for intermediate level dancers. This class builds upon foundational ballet techniques, focusing on increasing strength, flexibility, and artistic expression. Dancers will work on more complex steps, combinations, and adagio/allegro work.

Tap dance class for intermediate level dancers. This class builds upon beginner techniques, introducing more complex rhythms, syncopation, and combinations. Dancers will enhance their speed, clarity, and musicality.

Tap dance class designed for adult learners. This class focuses on fundamental tap steps and rhythms in a fun and accessible environment. It's suitable for adults of all levels, offering a great way to exercise and enjoy music.

Pointe ballet class designed for intermediate level dancers who have met the necessary prerequisites. This class focuses on safe and effective pointe work, strengthening techniques, and refining the artistry required for dancing en pointe.

Advanced pointe ballet class for experienced dancers. This class emphasizes precision, stamina, and artistry in advanced pointe work. It includes challenging combinations and variations suitable for dancers with a high level of proficiency.

Ballet class for children aged 4-5 years. This class introduces the fundamentals of ballet in a fun and engaging way, focusing on basic positions, steps, and musicality. It aims to foster a love for dance and develop coordination and gross motor skills.

Acrobatic dance class for beginners aged 7-10 years. This class introduces fundamental tumbling skills, flexibility, strength, and coordination essential for acrobatic dance.

Ballet class for children aged 6-7 years. This class focuses on developing fundamental ballet technique, coordination, and musicality. It introduces basic ballet positions, steps, and short combinations in an encouraging atmosphere.

Acrobatic dance class for intermediate level students. This class focuses on developing more advanced tumbling techniques, increasing strength, flexibility, and refining execution.

Introductory dance class for children aged 3-4 years, combining basic movement exploration with fundamental tap steps. This class fosters coordination, musicality, and a love for dance in a playful environment.

Introduction to acrobatic dance for children aged 5-6 years. This class focuses on developing basic tumbling skills, coordination, flexibility, and strength in a safe and fun environment.

Ballet class for beginners at Level I. This class introduces fundamental ballet positions, basic steps, and movement concepts. It focuses on building a strong foundation in technique, posture, and musical awareness.

A conditioning class focused on stretching and strengthening for dancers at intermediate levels and levels IV and V. This class aims to improve flexibility, core strength, muscular endurance, and prevent injuries through targeted exercises.

Ballet class at the Ballet III level. This class builds upon fundamental techniques, focusing on increasing strength, flexibility, and refining execution. Dancers will work on more complex combinations and movement patterns.

A contemporary and jazz dance class designed for teenagers. This class offers an energetic exploration of movement, rhythm, and choreography, suitable for developing dancers interested in modern styles.

Advanced conditioning class focusing on building maximum flexibility, strength, and stamina. This class utilizes rigorous exercises to enhance dancers' physical capabilities for demanding techniques and performances.

A specialized class focusing on the technique and execution of pirouettes and jumps for intermediate ballet dancers. This class aims to improve turning ability, jump height, and control in the air.

Advanced class focusing on mastering complex pirouettes and dynamic jumps. Dancers will refine their technique, increase power, and develop advanced execution for challenging turning and jumping sequences.

Ballet class for children aged 6-7 years. This class focuses on developing fundamental ballet technique, coordination, and musicality. It introduces basic ballet positions, steps, and short combinations in an encouraging atmosphere.

Ballet class at the Ballet IV level. This class focuses on advancing technique, increasing strength, flexibility, and developing a higher level of artistry and performance quality. It involves more complex choreography and variations.

Yoga class specifically tailored for dancers. This class focuses on improving flexibility, strength, balance, and injury prevention through poses and sequences beneficial for dancers. It aims to enhance body awareness and overall physical conditioning.

Ballet class at the Ballet V level. This advanced class emphasizes precision, strength, endurance, and artistic expression. Dancers will execute challenging techniques, combinations, and variations suitable for a highly proficient level.

Ballet class suitable for teenagers and adults. This class offers a comprehensive introduction or continuation of ballet technique, focusing on posture, alignment, strength, and grace in a supportive environment.

Combined Tap and Jazz class for children aged 5-6 years. This introductory class provides a fun and energetic introduction to the basic steps and rhythms of both tap and jazz dance styles, fostering coordination and musicality.

Ballet class at the Ballet II level. This class is designed for students who have a foundational understanding of ballet and are ready to progress. It focuses on developing technique, coordination, and musicality with more intricate steps and combinations.

Jazz and Lyrical dance class for students at levels III, IV, and V. This class combines the dynamic energy of jazz with the expressive fluidity of lyrical dance, focusing on technique, musicality, and emotional storytelling.

A conditioning class focused on stretching and strengthening for dancers at levels III, IV, and V. This class aims to improve flexibility, core strength, muscular endurance, and prevent injuries through targeted exercises.

Contemporary dance class for intermediate level dancers. This class explores movement principles, improvisation, and choreography that blends elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance. Focuses on expression, fluidity, and dynamic range.

A contemporary and jazz dance class designed for adults. This class focuses on movement exploration, rhythm, and expressive choreography, suitable for all levels seeking a fun and engaging dance experience.

Advanced contemporary dance class focusing on complex choreography, exploration of diverse movement qualities, and high-level performance skills. Dancers will engage with intricate phrasing, spatial awareness, and emotional expression.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

Two weeks of elite instruction in Classical Ballet, Pointe (Inter/Advanced students), Contemporary, Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), African Dance, Latin Jazz, Pirouettes & Jumps.

We are pleased to announce our eighth WINTER INTENSIVE January 2nd and 3rd 2026 , for Intermediate and Advanced level students. Classes will be offered in Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, Pirouettes. Faculty to include Erin Yarbrough (former Smuin Ballet), Michael Lowe (Artistic Director Menlowe Ballet) and Tatum Quinonez (Alonzo King LINES Ballet).