THE ACADEMY

Divided into the Junior, Intermediate and the Advanced Divisions

Ages: 9-18 years old

The Academy Division at DKCBA is based on the teachings and methodology of the Russian Vaganova Method. Performing is an integral component of our curriculum. For this reason, all Pre-Professional Division students are included in DKCBA’s two major productions each year – The Nutcracker and the spring performance – and many perform at various fairs and festivals throughout the year. Select students will also have the opportunity to represent DKCBA at Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and other international ballet competitions.

The Academy Division emphasizes technical mastery, artistry, and individual growth in each student. The classroom environment is disciplined yet nurturing, inspiring students to achieve excellence in all areas of their development as aspiring dancers and as young ladies and gentlemen. Students who complete their training in the DKCBA Academy Division will have been fully prepared to accept placement in professional ballet companies and training programs as well as top university dance programs.

JUNIOR DIVISION

Ages: 9-13 years old

Junior (Levels 1-3) establishes the fundamental principles of ballet technique and introduces basic skills of coordination and focuses on alignment, balance, control, strength and flexibility. Work begins on the artistic, expressive and musical performance aspects of the art form. The initiation of pointe training is introduced at the end of the 3rdyear of study in this division provided that the students have met the age and strength requirements. These primary levels are considered the most important of all because the students’ development from this point forward depends greatly on the strength of their early base. All new Academy students must audition for placement.

Required Attire for Girls: DKCBA Uniform Logo-wear Sky Blue leotard, pink footed-tights, pink ballet shoes with ribbons sewn on, white hip placement belt. Hair must be pulled back off the face and secured in a neat bun with no large bows or flowers in the hair. Black Jazz shoes with no heel. Black character shoes and black character skirt 18″ long (for Junior levels 2 &3)

Required Attire for Boys: DKCBA Uniform logo-wear White fitted-shirt, black shorts, white socks, white ballet shoes. Black Jazz shoes with no heel.