Pacific Arts Complex - Santa Cruz

Drop-in attendance is available for adult classes only. Drop-in attendance must be set up and pre-paid in advance of class time at the following rates. Classes are offered in various styles and levels.

Acro, short for acrobatics, is a dance focused tumbling class. Dancers will learn class etiquette and safety on the mats. We focus on strength, flexibility, proper alignment, and basic acro positions while learning fundamental acro technique and skills including handstands, headstands, rolls, cartwheels, back bends, walkovers, handsprings, and more, all within each student's individual level of experience.

Combos classes are designed for entry level dancers ages 3-6. Combo classes consist of two styles that are listed in the class title (IE: ballet/tap). Dancers will learn classroom etiquette while learning the basics of the two styles (descriptions on styles listed above). In February, the class will begin focusing on one dance that will be performed in our June recital; this will be one of the two styles and will be decided by the teacher.

Jumps & turns is a technique focused class that works on developing the strength, power, flexibility, and proper alignment in jumps, turns, legs, etc. for various styles. An emphasis will be placed on using the correct muscles and mind body connection to perform technique moves properly as they progress. Students will be taught combinations that will enhance their dance repertoire for multiple dance styles.

Tap classes are designed to de velop rhythm, style and sound. Students will learn a variety of tap styles from Broadway to Rhythm tap. Exercises focus on building flexibility of the knee and ankles, coordination, and speed of movement. The class emphasis is on developing proper tap technique, producing clear tap sounds, and having fun.

Hip hop is a high-energy class that infuses the latest styles of choreograph y, breaking, popping, and locking. Classes will encourage students to step outside of the box by bringing their own individual style and personality to the movements. This class will cover the basics of what we call the foundation of hip hop as well as learning new and exciting dance trends.

Contemporary/Lyrical is a mixture of dance genres like classical ballet, modern, & jazz styles. Unlike other dance forms, it isn’t a rigid choreographic style and is open to many possibilities of creating new variations. The dance form focuses on unexpected movements, self-expression, and freedom – while simultaneously maintaining a strong focus on technique. Students have a warm up focusing on core strength, flexibility, and movement of the back. The class includes floor work, progressions, and center combinations.

Jazz class will focus on learning proper dance technique such as isolations of the body, improving performance quality a nd developing complex rhythms and patterns. Students will be exposed to various styles of jazz such as Broadway, Street and Contemporary to help develop a well rounded dancer. Class curriculum is based on ballet technique layered with traditional jazz movement and includes a proper warm-up, stretches, isolations, across-the-floor progressions, and combinations. As students progress through each level, the curriculum will become increasingly more complex and intricate.

Ballet classes are offered from a beginner level to advanced. Students are taught proper body placement, body alignment, barre and center floor work, along with across the floor combinations. Beginner classes introduce vocabulary, proper alignment, and classical ballet technique. Advanced classes include adagio and allegro work, and combinations using balance, strength, and style. All students are urged to study ballet, as it is the foundation of all other dance styles and facilitates further success in these disciplines.