Children's Division​

The School of the Valley Dance Theatre offers a variety of year-round programs for boys and girls ages 2.5 - 12.  Students present a Showcase performance in the spring and are invited to audition for children's roles in the Valley Dance Theatre's annual production of The Nutcracker.  Our highly experienced and creative instructors make it fun to learn the basics of classical ballet.

​

Discover Dance (Ages 2.5 - 4) ~ Advanced by Instructor

Children are taught the basics of movement, rhythm, and motor development skills in a fun and developmentally appropriate environment.  Students are taught how to follow direction, engage in music, use their imagination, and express themselves through the art of dance.

 

Pre-Ballet (Ages 4 - 6) ~ Advanced by Instructor

Children are taught basics of ballet terminology (plie, tendu, balance, chasses, etc..), body alignment, and proper ballet class behavior.  Rhythm, musicality, flexibility, and discipline are introduced.

 

Ballet l (Beginners Ages 6 - 9) ~ Advanced by Placement Class

Students move beyond the basics and begin learning more difficult ballet movements.  Proper class etiquette and attire are required.  Strength and balance are emphasized along with proper placement to prepare them for more complicated dance step combinations.  Students should have had at least 1 year of pre-ballet.

 

Ballet ll (Ages 7 - 10) ~ Advanced by Placement Class

Developing quality of movement begins.  Students begin to experience the art of dance, and learn the commitment required to excel.  Students begin to demonstrate maturity in their movement, dedication, strength, technique and proper body alignment to prepare them for pointe.  Students should have at least 2 years of ballet as a prerequisite.  Two classes per week are recommended at this level.

 

Ballet lll (Pre-Pointe) ~ Advanced by Instructors

Pointe work will begin when students demonstrate sufficient maturity, dedication, strength, technique and proper body alignment.  The instructors will notify students when they are eligible for pointe classes.  Students in Ballet III Pre-Pointe class are required to take a minimum of two ballet classes per week on Mondays and Wednesdays.  An additional third class per week on Saturday is optional, but strongly recommended for students who aspire to move to pointe work.