1. Why do I want to take dancing?
For many parents, dance lessons are a logical choice for active children who enjoy moving to music. Young children may even express the desire to become ballerinas; taking classes will introduce them to the world of dance. For others, dance classes may provide physical activity, an outlet for creativity, and a social environment (especially for those not yet in school). Dance classes for children should, first and foremost, be fun. If a child displays a level of excellence above the expectations for their age, teachers may suggest competitions or other more "serious" means of study.
For older students, dance classes may be necessary to successfully audition for post high-school, performing arts programs. Anyone looking at a career in the musical theatre industry (or many other entertainment aspects) should seriously consider taking some dance classes.
The benefits include:
*** Physical: flexibility/toning/cardiovascular
*** Rhythmic: ability to move the body to music
*** Creative: a way to express oneself
*** Teamwork: learning to work as part of a group
*** Confidence: posture/comfort in being in front of others/performing
*** Social: friendships with others who enjoy the same activity/friendships outside of school
2. What type of dance interests me?
For little ones, there are programs specifically for young children that incorporate creative movement to music. Young children also enjoy tap and jazz classes geared to their age levels. Ballet is wonderful for posture, technique and building a sound foundation, but it must be done correctly for these benefits to take place.
Older students who are choosing a dance class for fun should pick something that is of interest to them. Hip hop/street dance is very popular with teens as well as jazz.
Students considering a career in musical theatre should take as many different dance disciplines as possible.
DANCE DISCIPLINES TO CHOOSE FROM: These are the main ones:
Tap Jazz Ballet/Pointe Lyrical Modern Hip hop/street Musical theatre National (Celtic/Italian/Ukrainian/Scottish etc etc)
3. What do I hope to achieve by taking the class?
When signing up young children, consider that dance should be fun for them. If they are not enjoying taking the classes, they shouldn't be forced to continue (even if they are very talented).
For more serious students, consider the following reasons for taking classes:
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