Dance Classes At Hillsdale
Beginning Dance
BEGINNING DANCE I
This course explores classic and contemporary jazz, Ballet, modern, musical theater and hip hop styles as incorporated in concert and commercial realm. Technique is strengthened with thorough warm ups emphasizing correct alignment, isolations, musicality and complex rhythmic patterns. Students explore personal expression through dance, incorporating various jazz and contemporary idioms. Beginning students are instilled with the fundamentals of dance protocols, core strength, correct alignment and a basic command of dance vocabulary of all styles.The beginning class will explore coordination, musicality and movement in small and large groups. Students will improve in confidence and self-expression through increasingly challenging technique. Students will study the introductory modern dance techniques of Graham and Dunham and focus on achieving sustained control, refinement and movement versatility. This will increase confidence and self expression through movement possibilities within this modern dance vocabulary. Students will be exposed to health and wellness for the dancer, the historical and cultural foundations of this modern dance form, and its influence on current dance culture.
This course may be taken more than once.
BEGINNING DANCE II
Students build upon the foundation gained in Dance I to enhance their technical skills, personal artistry and performance capabilities. Across the floor progressions, detailed improvisation exercises, and choreography phrases are delivered at an intermediate pace. Students in Beginning Dance II engage with dance history literature, anatomy and injury prevention and perform in Spring Dance Concert.
Intermediate Dance
INTERMEDIATE DANCE I
The Intermediate Dance class will serve as an apprentice-level group to the Advanced Dance/Ensemble class. Students will focus on strengthening technique while learning and working through material taught in the Advanced class. This structure is designed to build skill, confidence, and readiness for higher-level performance opportunities.
During the second semester, classwork will shift toward Dance Show material, preparing students to step in as understudies or additional performers if needed. This ensures that Intermediate dancers are fully prepared to participate in performance opportunities.
Auditions are required for placement in Intermediate Dance, even if you do not plan to audition for the Dance Ensemble.
Advanced Dance
Advanced Dance is an Ensemble-level, performance-based class, designed for dedicated dancers ready to train and perform at the highest level within the program.
This class focuses on advanced technique, choreography/composition, and performance quality. Dancers will not only refine their technical skills, but also explore the creative process through learning, setting, and performing original works.
As a member of Ensemble, students are expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment and responsibility. This class should be treated as a top priority, with consistent attendance, active participation, and strong work ethic.
Advanced Dance / Ensemble is designed for dancers who are ready to:
Commit fully to rehearsals and performances
Grow as both technicians and artists
Collaborate within a dedicated performance company
Represent the dance program at the highest level
This is a rigorous and rewarding experience intended for students serious about their growth and involvement in dance.
For more information regarding auditions, visit the Audition Information tab above.