The aim of Balletomane is to offer excellence in dance education by providing a learning environment that extends beyond our local community. Our fully accredited Artistic Faculty ensure that each student is offered the highest level of instruction whether it is to foster their appreciation for dance or to facilitate their pursuit of a professional career in the Performing Arts. As such, our dancers develop a sense of self-discipline, focus, and a strong work ethic.
Balletomane offers the Children’s Syllabus of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing in the disciplines of Classical Ballet, Modern Theatre Dance and Tap. These programs are based on the I.S.T.D. set syllabus to ensure that a high standard of instruction in consistently maintained. We also follow the Professional Syllabus in Classical Ballet of both the Royal Academy of Dance and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. In addition, classes will be offered in Jazz, Lyrical Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre & Stage and Acting.
Programs Offered
Balletomane students are encouraged to work towards graded and/or vocational examinations each year. These examinations allow for each student to strive for a common goal while improving his/her own standard. Examinations will occur in the Spring of each calendar year in the ISTD and RAD Syllabi. Yearly exams are offered to qualified students, solely at the discretion of the Artistic Faculty, from Primary to Advanced levels. Students in the Classical Ballet Division are required to take a minimum of two classes per week from Grade One onwards. Students in the Modern/Jazz Division are required to take one Open Ballet Class from Grade Five onwards. In some instances, additional training classes may be required, at a nominal charge, prior to examination dates.
CLASSICAL BALLET
Ballet is the basis of all dance forms and is essential for posture, strength and flexibility. Balletomane follows the Syllabi of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing and The Royal Academy of Dance.
MODERN DANCE
Modern is a creative syllabus which combines the grace of classical ballet with the freedom and movement of jazz. Balletomane follows the Syllabi of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing in Modern Theatre Dance.
TAP
Tap develops musicality, rhythm and co-ordination in a creative yet structured environment. Balletomane follows the syllabi of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing in Tap.
JAZZ
Jazz is made up of many different styles (Lyrical, Classical, Funk) and is based on the relationship between music and movement.
CONTEMPORARY
Contemporary is a unique blend of Classical Ballet and Modern and is based on such philosophies as those developed by Graham and Limone. This is an evolving form of dance that requires a strong technical background. At this time, Contemporary is only offered to students of the Vocational Program.
HIP HOP
Hip Hop is a reflection of urban culture and has rapidly developed through music videos.
MUSICAL THEATRE & STAGE
Musical Theatre is a triple threat program that combines Music, Dance and Acting.
ACTING
Acting enables students to improve their poise, confidence and dramatic presence on the stage.
Vocational Programs (IAB & VJS)
Balletomane has introduced two Vocational Programs for students aged 9 and above (Intensive Accelerated Ballet and Vocational Jazz & Stage). The Vocational Programs are a commitment on behalf of Balletomane to enable and allow for careful, constructive and professional training within a nurturing environment. Our philosophy is in “complete” education which includes the importance of academics and the continuing support and stability offered from a student’s family life.
These programs are carefully designed for competitive, dedicated and serious dance and theatre students. We aim to prepare students for a potential professional career in dance performance, teaching, choreography or related skills. As such, a serious time commitment must be made by each student and their families. Entry into these programs is based on physical attributes, the ability for students to accept and apply corrections and a strong sense of discipline. Students must be dedicated and focused towards their commitment. At this time entry into the Vocational Programs are by invitation/audition only. Please contact the School directly for information in regards to the Vocational Programs.
- Vocational students are expected to participate in all required core classes, extra rehearsals, examinations and shows
- Vocational students are encouraged to participate in outside classes with the recommendation and permission of Balletomane Artistic Faculty
- Students are expected (when appropriate) to attend all Balletomane “Lecture Series” which will be held at Balletomane on topics such as Nutrition, Sports Psychology, Career Planning, etc.
- Participating in Balletomane theatre trips and field trips are strongly recommended and encouraged
- Vocational students must attend additional summer classes and master classes