Ballet Arts

We know the importance of movement and dance for all children. We offer classes designed specifically for children with special needs ages 7-12 and 14 and up.

Variations class, designed as an extension for our advanced dancers, provides a chance for students to explore classical and neoclassical ballet repertoire. This class focuses on preparing dancers for solo or corps roles in significant ballet performances. Participants will not only learn choreography but will also gain insights into the rich historical context of ballet throughout the ages.

As dancers advance through Levels 5 to 8, the expectations for their execution will progressively intensify, culminating at Level 8. Each level will be carefully catered to the individual student for the benefit of the dancer’s progression. Levels 5-8 classes will incorporate advanced pointe work to enhance the dancer's progression.

Level 4 will incorporate all the vocabulary of the previous levels with the addition of new material to continue growth of the dancer. Dancers will solidify foundational technique increase the development of artistry. Level 4 class will incorporate pointe work to enhance the dancer’s progression.

Level 3 will incorporate all the vocabulary of the previous levels with the addition of new material to continue growth of the dancer. Dancers are expected to understand and incorporate proper use of turnout and correct posture. Dancers will also be introduced to pre-pointe or pointe when age and skill level are appropriate.

Level 2 will incorporate all the vocabulary of the previous levels with the addition of new material to continue growth of the dancer. Dancers will be introduced to many new concepts such as the directions of the body, and use of epaulement.

Level 1 will follow a curriculum that incorporates a cognitive understanding of the basic positions of arms and feet, and movements in dancing. Dancers will grow and develop their technique in ballet.

Primary A-C will follow a curriculum that begins to introduce proper alignment, musicality, and coordination. Dancers will have an emphasis on turnout, “allegro,” meaning to jump, back strength, and abdominal focus, to help begin the muscle and brain development for ballet.

An introduction to ballet with an emphasis on creative movement. Classes will take on an imaginative play structure that will instill ballet concepts for further growth and muscular development. Dancers will learn and appreciate the joy and movement of dance.

The Academy of Ballet Arts’ ballet curriculum incorporates the classical styles of French, Italian, Russian, and American schools of ballet. Each level strives to progress dancers in a safe and nurturing environment. Dancers gain strength, flexibility, agility, and confidence all through the curriculum of Ballet Arts.

The Primary Program curriculum focuses on building a strong foundation in classical ballet technique, developing artistic expression, and encouraging personal growth. Within a nurturing atmosphere, dancers will also explore creative movement, learn dance concepts and vocabulary, engage in bun technique and stage makeup tutorials, learn audition processes, and be guided in overall dance discipline.

Take advantage of our Master Class series taught by professional dancers from Ballet Memphis and Collage Dance Collective. These classes will be on Thursday evenings. Join for the year or drop-in!

Our modern workshop class will serve as an introduction to the Horton technique, incorporating elements influenced by the Martha Graham technique. This class aims to cultivate an essential second style of dance, fostering the artistic growth of our dancers. The Horton method specifically focuses on strengthening the achilles, calves, and abdominal muscles.