Program Overview

Summer Programs – click here

School Year Program

Early Childhood Dance Program (ECD)

Junior Ballet and Intro to Ballet

These classes are designed to provide children between three and seven years of age with a strong foundation in dance and movement. Classes are grouped into levels by age, developmental skills and dance class experience. All teachers are adults with children of their own and have had extensive dance training as well as instruction in the Academy’s children’s syllabus, under the guidance of Academy director, Kathleen Sinclair.

Ballet Program

The heart of the Academy is the Ballet Program. Students are divided into five levels, starting at age seven. Each successive year, the number of technique classes increases as the skill and ability of the student progresses. Pointe work begins upon individual student readiness, no earlier than Level 3.

For upper level students, two tracks are available – Academy and Ballet Yuma. Academy levels meet three times a week for ballet technique, pointe and contemporary dance. The Ballet Yuma level is an intensive program for the serious young dancer, age twelve and up. Study is required five or six days a week and stage training and performing opportunities are provided by Ballet Yuma.

Contemporary Program

Four progressive levels teach dance vocabulary in a less structured environment than a classical ballet class. Improvisation and individual creativity are also explored. Enrollment in ballet classes is encouraged but not required. Students must be in at least fourth grade to enroll and have had at least one year of ballet.

Session based Programs

Teen/Adult Program

The Academy offers a basic ballet class for adults once or twice a week depending on interest. Teens 14yr and up are also welcome to take this class. Check our Facebook page for updates on classes.

Dance with ME! (formerly Mommy & Me)

Dance with ME! is for children 24 months up to the age of 3 years. Music, movement, balance and the basic dance steps are introduced in a fun, friendly and positive manner. This type of class includes the child’s caregiver participating in the class along with the little dancer. Our teachers will keep the music and curriculum moving along while parents take an active role in encouraging, supporting and keeping the little dancer on track.