Class Decription


Creative Movement

This class is designed for children ages 3-4. Here children will explore the wonderful world of music and dance. Students will learn pre-ballet dance steps, terminology and stage directions. At this age, children begin learning movement patterns, rhythm skills, and coordination skills. Motor skills such as jumping, hopping, skipping, and galloping, are incorporated into the curriculum. This imaginative and creative class will broaden every young child's experiences and enlighten them to enjoy and have a love for the performing arts.


Combination Classes

These unique classes are for children 5 to 7 years old. We offer Ballet/Tap, Ballet/Jazz, and Tap/Jazz combinations. In the class, students will experience dance technique and terminology in the specific dance style. Ballet is based on the classical foundation for beginners. Jazz is stylized dance, teaching beginner movements. Tap introduces syncopations and rhythmic patterns. This class meets for 1 hour and is divided in half for each style of dance.


Ballet

Here students will learn the principals of Ballet from beginner levels to that of a more advanced level. This class will train each student to find their correct alignment, turnout, port-de-bras (movement of the arms) body awareness, and strength. Classical training begins with students ages 8 to adult. In order to reach the advanced levels, students will need continuous, additional classes per week. Approval from instructors is required before any student may begin Pointe work.


Tap

Tap is a style of dance that introduces music. It is the study of musical and rhythmic sounds coupled through movement. Tap is the single best method to develop coordination musically, and will help every dancer become a more well-balanced, disciplined performer. We offer all levels in Tap. Much like Ballet and Jazz, Tap requires additional classes in order to achieve the advanced levels. Classes are an hour long and begin at age 8 to adult.


Jazz

This style of dance is brought to us by way of Ballet. Moreover, we recommend that Ballet be taken with Jazz in order to more fully understand its concepts. Jazz is a stylized form of dance from swing to pop. Lyrical is a form of Jazz dance that tells a story. Classes are available from the beginner to advanced levels. Additional classes are encouraged for those seeking greater achievement in Jazz. This technique starts at age 8, to adult.


Broadway Dance "Musical Theatre"

The best choice for all dancers is to be a "Triple Threat", meaning the dancer can incorporate all styles of performing arts which includes, dancing, acting, singing and stage performance. One year each of Ballet and Tap or Jazz is required to enroll in this unique learning experience. Classes will be offered to students who take more than 3 class hours per week.


Hip-Hop

High-energy and upbeat describes this Jazz class that is performed to the latest music styles in pop. This class is not a technique class, although it is designed for those who just want to have fun while learning the latest street dance moves; not to mention the excellent cardiovascular workout.


Acting Class

  1. Welcome to Acting/Drama Class. Throughout the year we will explore many different aspects of theatre. You will learn to play act as different types of characters. You will learn to use different modes of expressions to communicate your feelings, actions, and ideas. And you will learn techniques that will allow you to bring a character to life. Most importantly we will have FUN!


1.To provide an interactive experience through the use of creative dramatics by:

a. Individual Expression such as: Monologues and using props to make up a story
b. Give and take dialogue with a partner
c. Group interaction exchange


2.To stimulate intellectual and cognitive development, as well as, creativity through the use of imagery and fantasy with:

a. Acting activities and Games
b. Improvisation with monologues and scenes
c. Play production
3. Improve Verbal and Reading Skills through the use of :
a. Vocal exercises and Games
b. Memorization of lines
c. Rehearsal process
d. Cold readings
4. To develop confidence and a positive self-image as participants in different roles such as:
a. Narrators
b. Actors
d. Audience members
5. To explore literature on a multi-cultural level through the utilization of:
a. Fairy tales
b. Folk tales
c. Legends


Ballroom & Partnership Dance:

The Ballroom program is designed to give students the foundation for good social dance habits. Some of the different social dances include Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Swing, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Salsa, Merengue, and Two-Step. These are just a few of the possibilities. The Youth Classes will also include social graces and basic etiquette. Similar to other dance styles to achieve higher levels and improve the quality of dance will require additional classes. Private lessons are recommended as supplement for students with goals of competition. Whether you want to be able to dance socially, brush up on manners, or dance competitively the Ballroom Program offers something for everyone!


Irish Dance Description:

Here the student is introduced to the exciting and energetic world of Irish dance. Beginners will learn basic techniques, form, and timing as well as the basic reel and jig dances in the softshoes (ghillies). As dancers progress, they will learn more advanced material including the hardshoe dances, made popular by Riverdance and fun group dances called ceili. Classes are offered based on level first, then by age as needed. All dancers are offered the opportunities to compete in competitions and attend local workshops conducted by Karl Drake, TCRG. A separate technique class is offered each week to give the more serious dancer a chance to attend class multiple days. Private lessons are also offered periodically or by request. Placement in upper level classes is by instructor’s approval only. Classes vary in length and begin at age 4 through adult. All students are considered students of the Drake School of Irish Dance (more info at www.drakedance.com).

  1. The Irish dance classes are run separate from Heather Wayne’s Dance Academy and have separate registration and tuition procedures. Please contact Karl Drake (instructor) for more information and/or to register for the Irish dance classes, at 678.485.6341 or drakeflowerybramch@bellsouth.net.


Summer Classes and Camps:

Summer classes are being offered to help students enhance their dance skills while on break. We welcome our current students as well as new students looking to explore the performing arts. We have two sessions this summer which are taught by highly trained professionals. You can choose dance classes which meet two days a week for three weeks, or there is a Dancer’s Workshop for students 5 years and up. The workshop will be a more intensive study covering a broad range of dance.