Advanced Recreational Classes

As dancers continue to move up through the classes here at TDA, these hour long advanced classes are our highest placement within our recreational program. Dancers will be placed in one of 8 class levels that are selected by TDA Faculty based on dance experience, skill level, and age. Each Class level has varying schedules throughout the week for their core classes (Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, and Technique) additionally Crew (Hip Hop) and Tap are available for dancers and those skill levels are evaluated separately creating and individualized track within the recreational program. With so many class options, dancers who have danced their whole lives and are advanced level dancers will have a place for them, as well as new dancers walking into their first ever dance experience. Dancers may choose to add Crew, Tap, Lyrical, and or Technique to their schedule with ballet and jazz as their two required classes for these dancers. As far as scheduling these classes, each students class schedule is unique to them, and once your dancer is evaluated by staff and placed in the appropriate level, you will be able to follow along with their class scheduling.

Hour Long Class Levels (2024-25)

These classes will focus on expanding dancer knowledge on dance skills to prepare dancers to take their dancing to the next level if they choose to. Within our recreational program, our competitive team dancers are required to take classes within this program as well. Dancers are placed by level and age no matter what, and their participation in the competitive team does not guarantee certain level classes in the recreational program. All Advanced Level Lyrical and Jazz pieces will go to competition. Depending on your dancers Crew or Tap placement; they might take those to competition as well. In the recital their will be performances from all of the following classes: Jazz, Lyrical, Crew, Tap, & Ballet Progressions.

CLICK HERE to see our weekly schedule and meeting times for the various classes. Again your dancer’s schedule is unique to them and their class placements for the season.

Dancers in this age range are at a pivotal point in their development, where they can really start to refine their technique, artistry, and overall performance quality. Whether dancers at this level are wanting to pursue dance professionally or continue as passionate amateurs, balancing the key areas listed below can help dancers build a solid foundation for their future in dance.

Technical Skills: Dancers will continue to develop and refine core technical skills, including alignment, flexibility, strength, and precision.
Artistic Expression: Dancers will convey emotions and narratives through dance. This involves not just technical proficiency, but also the ability to connect with the audience and bring the choreography to life.
Choreography and Improvisation: Dancers may begin creating dance material and improvisation to develop creativity and personal style. They will begin understanding choreography from the perspective of the creator.
Performance Skills: Dancers will practice stage presence, confidence, and the ability to connect with an audience.
Cross-Training: Teachers will often incorporate strength training, conditioning, and flexibility exercises outside of regular dance classes. This helps prevent injuries and supports overall physical health and stamina.
Knowledge of Dance History and Theory: As dancers progress in their dance training, understanding the history and theory behind various dance styles will help to deepen appreciation and interpretation of the art form.
Professionalism and Work Ethic: Dancers will work towards creating a strong work ethic, including punctuality, dedication, and the ability to take constructive criticism. These qualities are crucial for future professional opportunities.
Goal Setting and Self-Assessment: Dancers will set personal goals for their dance training and performance, and will be regularly assessed on progress.
Networking and Exposure: Our hope is that dancers take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way by engaging in Master Classes and Pop Up Classes that are offered throughout the season.
Mental and Emotional Well-being: Dancers are challenged to pay attention and advocate for their mental health and emotional resilience. Dance can be demanding, and maintaining a healthy balance is essential for long-term success.

Additional Events & Performances for all Advanced Dancers:

Recreational Competition – All dancers at this level will be entered into a competition. Here at TDA, we take pride in taking our recreational dancers to one competition and allowing them to get a taste of what that part of the dance world looks like. This is also a great step to help dancers see if they would like to commit more into dance and eventually audition for the competitive team. They will compete different routines based on their enrollment, but all at this level will at least compete their jazz routine. Dates and details for this event will be shared throughout the season, and there is one time additional fee that will be processed.
Observation Days – On certain days throughout the year, teachers may invite parents to watch at the end of class. Additionally, there is an open window and or door for parents to view at all times. Additionally, all dancers and parents have access to our google drive folder that houses videos from class each week as well.
Master Class Series – We invite all of our dancers to attend our Master Classes and or Pop Up Classes that take place throughout the season. These classes are typically hosted at the studio on the weekends, and sign up information is available in the newsletter as well as on the website. If you have questions, please email us and we will help get you squared away!
TDA Going Nutz – In the month of November, dancers will be exposed to different traditional elements of The Nutcracker. Each age group and level at the entire studio is assigned different parts of the nutcracker curriculum to gain knowledge and perform for their families. The dates for these performances and additional information will be sent throughout the year.
Christmas Parade – During the first weekend of December, all TDA Dancers are invited to join us in the Rolesville Christmas parade. Dancers will learn the traditional TDA Parade Dance that the will get to perform all the way through their High School Graduation.
Picture Day – All dancers enrolled at TDA will be a part of picture day in the Spring portion of the season. Rec dancers will likely have one day of pictures in their costumes for their end of year routines. Families will be able to purchase and order digital downloads of images, and more information on that event will be provided throughout the year.
Pajama Week – Dancers will get a week to be celebrated after completing their competition in Spring! Dancers will get snacks and get a chance to walk the red carpet as they get to celebrate their hard work throughout the year as well.
Recital – All dancers enrolled at TDA will be a part of our annual recital. Dancers will perform their rehearsed routines in their assigned costume at one of our four recitals. If dancers are enrolled in: ballet, jazz, tap, crew, lyrical, ballet progressions those classes will have routines performed in the recital. Family members are encouraged to come and support your youngest dancers in the recital as well! Additional information on days, times, rehearsals, tickets, merchandise etc. will be available to you as we finish out the season.

Dance Attire:

Girls – pink ballet shoes and any type of dance wear.

Boys – black ballet shoes and any type of athletic wear.

Tap Shoes: CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

Hip Hop Shoes: TO BE DETERMINED

As dancers bring in their water bottles in for classes, it would be helpful if dancers could have their bottles labeled with their names on them. See below for a few pictures from some of our classes to help you see what dancers typically wear, as well as a video from this past season recital.