Hyde Park School of Dance

Studio hip hop is an upbeat, high-energy style featuring rhythmic combinations with a focus on body isolations and a contrast between smooth and sharp movements. This style incorporates the latest hip hop dance moves, and gets the whole group working together to present a choreographed routine.

As breaking was emerging on the streets of New York, popping began to take hold in California. Dancers who created this style of dance combined fluid motions with more jerky movements performed by quickly contracting and relaxing their muscles to move or "pop" their bodies into various positions. Originally, popping was performed primarily to funk music. It was eventually co-opted by the hip hop movement that was beginning to pick up steam in the early eighties, and now it is often performed to hip hop music. If you've ever seen a dancer perform a really tight robot, you've seen something related to popping, but as any popper knows, there's a lot more to it than meets the eye!

B-boys and b-girls in the making should will love our improvisational breaking classes. Breaking was the first style of hip hop dance to emerge in the Bronx in the late 60s and early 70s, and it consists of four principle move types: toprocks are footwork-focused standing steps; downrocks are footwork moves performed with both hands and feet on the floor; freezes are just what they sound like - frozen poses a dancer typically holds on his or her hands with feet in the air; and power moves, which are the trickiest and most acrobatic type of move. Drops help a b-boy or b-girl transition between toprock and downrock, and freezes and power moves are peppered throughout. Breaking can be performed as a battle between two crews, or a one-on-one in the center of a circle, called a cypher.

Hip Hop is the newest addition and fastest-growing program at Hyde Park School of Dance. W ith world-class professional instruction in a positive environment and the freedom of self-expression through dancing to high-energy music, it's no wonder our kids love it!

At Hyde Park School of Dance, our jazz classes are accompanied by age-appropriate contemporary music and feature a low center of gravity, a high level of energy, and self-expressive movement. Warm-up exercises develop the habit of correct placement, and strengthen each muscle group to improve balance. Across the floor work and choreography draw on diverse influences, mixing dance styles including modern, contemporary, street, and lyrical.

In Modern IV, students take on a more advanced and faster-paced study of Horton, Dunham, and Graham styles, with an emphasis on Graham and contemporary movement. The focus of this class is on the details of technique, consistency of movement, and expression. This class is for ages 14 and up and is 90 minutes long.

Modern III offers a more advanced study of Horton and Dunham, with an introduction to some Graham technique. Students begin to practice more advanced aspects of modern dance, including turns, jumps, falls, and floor work. Dynamics and expression are also more deeply explored. This class is for ages 12 and up and is 90 minutes long.

In Modern II, Dunham technique is introduced, and dancers continue to work on their Horton technique. This class has an emphasis on quicker movements, spinal articulation, dynamics, and balance. It is for ages 10 and up and is 75 minutes long.

Modern I offers an introduction to Horton technique with an emphasis on core strength, flexibility, and muscle awareness. This class is for ages 7 and up and is 60 minutes long.

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.

The syllabus for Ballet 6 is built on increasing complexity, stamina, and memory and recall. In Ballet 6, pointe shoes may be worn for the duration of class with instructor permission. At this level we have a rigorous class at a pre-professional level of training to carry a dancer into a dance major or minor in college or a dance career.

In Ballet 5, class begins with a 45-minute barre focused on flexibility and increasingly difficult movements. In Ballet 5, 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 4 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 and basic combinations of steps ("enchaînements") in the form of petit allegro and grand allegro.

Ballet 3 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 simple adagio and port de bras, stamina in jumps, and later, preparation for pirouettes.

In Ballet 2, steps become more complex as students focus on the coordination of arm and leg movements. Dancers begin at the barre and have set exercises to accomplish at this level.

Ballet 1 is an introduction to ballet with an emphasis on posture and correct body placement. Basic ability to do a correct demi plie, tendu front and side, saute in first, five positions of the arms and simple traveling steps will be accomplished.

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.

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.

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.

Official Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) classes drawing from the current RAD syllabus. Dancers who take these RAD leveled classes will be eligible to take the RAD Exams with a certificate of accomplishment awarded after a successful exam.

Intermediate students receive foundational training in contemporary, modern, and jazz; advanced expands on the fundamentals, building fluid cross-genre movement.

Intermediate students receive foundational training in contemporary, modern, and jazz; advanced expands on the fundamentals, building fluid cross-genre movement.

Intermediate students build ballet technique and artistry; advanced dancers train in pointe, variations, and partnering.

Intermediate students build ballet technique and artistry; advanced dancers train in pointe, variations, and partnering.

Jazz dance originated in the US in the late 1800s and early 1900s, evolving alongside and in response to ragtime, and, naturally, jazz music. This early jazz dance could be seen in dance halls and on the vaudeville stage in young America's growing urban hubs. By the time the swing movement was taking off in the twenties, jazz dance was an integral part of the American dance landscape. American musical theatre was also in an important phase of its evolution at this time, and the dance in new American productions tended to be of the style we now call jazz dance.

Beginning in the late 19th century, a decline in adherence to the strictures of the Victorian era and an increased interest in physical education paved the way for the emergence of a new type of theatrical dance. In this social climate, there was a ready audience for the dancers who sought to push the boundaries of classical ballet, and the pioneers of this era initiated a shift in the dance world that would give rise to what we now call modern dance. Our modern dance classes are accompanied by a percussionist, and feature high-energy movement with a pulsing beat.

Our ballet classes for dancers aged 7 through 18 guide dancers slowly and purposefully through the techniques that build a physical vocabulary for the choreography they aspire to create and perform. Our training technique emphasizes correct placement and careful movement to minimize the risk of injury, and a powerful command of the basics from which elaborate works are built.

First Steps is a 30 minute class that meets once a week, for toddlers 18-36 months old, together with a parent or caregiver. In this class, parents help their toddlers explore the relationship between rhythm and movement through music-based play.

AcroDance classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Modern dance classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Hip hop classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

African dance classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Creative movement classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Tap classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Pre-ballet classes are designed especially towards our youngest dancers, offering lots of fun ways for kids under 7 to explore the joy of movement.

Ages 6-7 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 45 min. This pre-ballet class for ages 6-7 continues to develop ballet technique and artistry.

Ages 7-12. This beginner modern dance class for ages 7-12 will introduce fundamental modern dance techniques.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory West African dance class for ages 4-9 will explore fundamental rhythms and movements.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This intermediate-advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 3 or 4A level.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This West African dance class for young dancers will introduce fundamental rhythms and movements.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 5 level.

For adults 9+ years old, this class focuses on foundational West African dance techniques and cultural context.

For ages 9 and up, this class focuses on foundational West African dance techniques and cultural context.

This intermediate modern dance class is by permission only and is designed for dancers with prior experience.

For adults 9+ years old, this intermediate West African dance class is by permission only and is for dancers with prior experience.

This intermediate West African dance class is by permission only and is for dancers with prior experience.

By permission only • Must be enrolled in the ballet class before the pointe class and at least 2 additional weekly ballet classes. This pointe class with variations is for dancers at Pointe 3 level.

For adults 13+ years old, this yoga class offers a session for relaxation and physical well-being.

This intermediate to advanced breaking class is by permission only and is for experienced breakers.

Ages 9+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 75 min. This ballet class for ages 9 and up develops intermediate ballet technique and artistry.

Ages 7+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 min • *Bilingüe (español/inglés). This beginner ballet class for ages 7 and up focuses on fundamental ballet positions and movements in a bilingual setting.

Ages 7-12. This beginner hip hop class for ages 7-12 will teach fundamental hip hop movements and styles.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This intermediate-advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 4A level.

This advanced breaking class focusing on power moves is by permission only and is for experienced breakers.

For adults 12+ years old, this hip hop class focuses on progressing through intermediate hip hop techniques and choreography.

For adults 12+ years old, this hip hop class focuses on progressing through intermediate hip hop techniques and choreography.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 6 level.

This advanced hip hop class is by permission only and requires significant prior hip hop experience.

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Ages 8+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 min. This ballet class for ages 8 and up continues to build upon ballet technique.

Ages 7+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 min • *Bilingüe (español/inglés). This beginner ballet class for ages 7 and up focuses on fundamental ballet positions and movements in a bilingual setting.

For adults 13+ years old, this tap class focuses on progressing through intermediate tap techniques and rhythms.

For adults 13+ years old, this tap class focuses on progressing through intermediate tap techniques and rhythms.

This advanced modern dance class is by permission only and requires significant prior experience.

By permission only • Must be enrolled in the ballet class before the pointe class and at least 2 additional weekly ballet classes. This pointe class with variations is for dancers at Pointe 3/4 level.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This intermediate-advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 4A or 4B level.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory tap class for ages 4-7 will focus on rhythm, timing, and basic tap steps.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory tap class for young dancers will focus on rhythm and footwork.

For adults 13+ years old, this intermediate ballet class focuses on developing advanced ballet technique.

Ages 9+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 75 min. This ballet class for ages 9 and up develops intermediate ballet technique and artistry.

For adults 12+ years old, this tap class focuses on foundational tap techniques and rhythms.

For adults 12+ years old, this tap class focuses on foundational tap techniques and rhythms.

By permission only • Must be enrolled in the ballet class before the pointe class and at least 2 additional weekly ballet classes. This pointe class is for dancers at Pointe 1 level.

Ages 4-5 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 45 min • *Bilingüe (español/inglés). This pre-ballet class for ages 4-5 introduces foundational ballet technique in a bilingual environment.

Ages 18 mos-3 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 30 minutes • Adult participation required. This class is designed for the youngest dancers to take their first steps in the world of dance.

Ages 5-6 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 45 min • *Bilingüe (español/inglés). This pre-ballet class for ages 5-6 builds upon foundational ballet technique in a bilingual setting.

Ages 3-4 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 30 minutes • Independent class. This class focuses on developing basic movement skills and coordination for young children.

Ages 18 mos-3 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 30 minutes • Adult participation required. This class is designed for the youngest dancers to take their first steps in the world of dance.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory modern dance class for ages 4-7 will explore basic modern dance principles.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory modern dance class for young dancers will explore expressive movement.

Ages 7-12. This beginner to intermediate tap class for ages 7-12 will develop more complex tap techniques and rhythms.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 5 or 6 level.

For adults 13+ years old, this yoga class offers a session for relaxation and physical well-being.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory tumbling class for ages 3-4 will build foundational tumbling skills.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This tumbling class for young dancers will build foundational skills in tumbling.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This tumbling class for ages 5-8 will continue to build foundational tumbling skills.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This tumbling class for young dancers will build foundational skills in tumbling.

Ages 3-4 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 30 minutes • Independent class. This class focuses on developing basic movement skills and coordination for young children.

Ages 9+. This beginner jazz class for ages 9 and up introduces fundamental jazz techniques and choreography.

For adults 12+ years old, this jazz class focuses on progressing through intermediate jazz techniques and choreography.

For ages 12+ years old, this jazz class focuses on progressing through intermediate jazz techniques and choreography.

Ages 9-13 yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 minutes (Cancelled). This introductory ballet class for ages 9-13 offers a foundation in classical ballet technique.

For adults 12+ years old, this musical theater class combines singing, acting, and dancing.

Ages 10+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 minutes • Instructor: Cassie Nordgren • Adult Drop-in Eligible. This new musical theater class for ages 10 and up combines singing, acting, and dancing.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory acro dance class for ages 4-7 combines dance technique with acrobatic elements.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This acro dance class for young dancers combines dance technique with acrobatic elements.

Ages 8+ yrs (as of 9/4/25) • 60 min. This boys' dance class for ages 8 and up, at a level 2/3, focuses on developing strength, coordination, and dance skills.

Ages 7-11. This beginner acro dance class for ages 7-11 builds upon fundamental acro dance techniques and strength.

For adults 13+ years old, this ballet class focuses on progressing through intermediate ballet technique.

This intermediate acro dance class is by permission only and is for dancers with prior acro dance experience.

For adults 12+ years old, this ballet class focuses on building a strong foundation in ballet technique.

This highly advanced modern dance class is by permission only and is for experienced modern dancers.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Ages 7-12. This beginner breaking class for ages 7-12 will introduce fundamental breaking techniques and foundations.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

For adults 40+ years old, this beginner ballet class is specifically designed for older adults to enjoy ballet.

Ages 9+. This beginner jazz class for ages 9 and up introduces fundamental jazz techniques and choreography.

By permission only • 90 minutes. This intermediate-advanced ballet class is for dancers at a Ballet 4B level.

For adults 12+ years old, this Pilates class focuses on foundational Pilates principles and exercises.

This advanced jazz class is by permission only and requires significant prior jazz experience.

Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory jazz class for young dancers will explore rhythm, style, and basic jazz movements.

Intro-level classes for young dancers • Ages as of 9/4/25. This introductory jazz class for young dancers will explore rhythm and movement.

For adults 13+ years old, this Pilates class focuses on progressing through intermediate Pilates techniques.

By permission only • Must be enrolled in the ballet class before the pointe class and at least 2 additional weekly ballet classes. This pointe class is for dancers at Pointe 1/2 level.

For adults 12+ years old, this modern dance class focuses on progressing through intermediate modern techniques.

This intermediate jazz class is by permission only and is designed for dancers with prior jazz experience.

For adults 12+ years old, this modern dance class focuses on progressing through intermediate modern techniques.

For adults 13+ years old, this Pilates class focuses on progressing through advanced Pilates techniques.

This intermediate hip hop class is by permission only and is for dancers with prior hip hop experience.

By permission only • Must be enrolled in the ballet class before the pointe class and at least 2 additional weekly ballet classes. This pointe class with variations is for dancers at Pointe 4 level.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

Level Evaluation Classes are special free-to-attend classes for all Ballet 1+ and Modern 1+ dancers (usually ages 7-18 years). All ballet and/or modern dancers are encouraged, but not required, to attend the evaluation class for their current level. Students who are new to HPSD's ballet and modern dance programs but planning to attend in the summer or fall are also encouraged to attend to get a better sense of their future leveling.

An introduction to company structure and expectations, with training in both ballet and modern.

Designed for the serious dance student, HPSD's Pre-Professional Intensive gives dancers the chance to hone their dance technique in ballet or contemporary dance tracks with additional training in jazz, hip hop, breaking, studio hip hop, yoga, musical theater, West African dance, and contemporary and classical ballet partnering. Students will supplement their technique classes with focused work on building strength and flexibility. Every week, students will learn original and classical repertoire from HPSD faculty and guest artists from across the city. Attendance during week four and at least one other week required for participation in HPSD's Summer Showcase performance.

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