Monday Combo Dancers

As dancers transition into our combo dance program they are placed in either Combo 1, 2, 3, or 4. Typically, these dancers are starting into Kindergarten through first grade and their classes will meet on Mondays. This year, we have a high number of enrollment for this age group and have opened an additional class time on Thursdays as well. Dancers in our beginning combo classes might be entering their first experience with dance, or have completed creative movement classes with TDA and are ready for the next level. As a combo dancer in one of these classes, some additional class style options become available. Dancers may choose to add Hip Hop or Tap to their schedule; however ballet and jazz are two required classes for these dancers.

Combo 1-4 Class Times & Options (2024-25)

As dancers transition into our combo program, dancers will get opportunities in different styles with multiple routines to be presented in our end of year recital. These classes will focus on expanding dancer knowledge on basic dance skills and steps as well as fostering each dancers love for dance. As some of these dancers will be in their first group learning setting, dancers will be introduced to beginning classroom/studio expectations and will expand on those throughout the dance season. Ballet and Jazz are required for this age group, and they will have at least two dances in the recital. One of these two dances will also be selected to compete at one local competition. If dancers choose to add on additional styles, they will have additional dances performed for those routines. You can see those class options listed below as well.

At this stage, it’s important for students to be engaged in class in order to expand on their dance knowledge and performance experience. Here are some key skills students will focus on in these classes:

Basic Coordination: Improving their ability to move different parts of their body in sync and with control.
Balance: Practicing simple balance exercises to build stability and strength.
Rhythm and Timing: Developing an understanding of rhythm through clapping, tapping, and moving to music. Basic timing is crucial for following along with different musical phrases.
Body Awareness: Learning about different body parts and how to control and move them. This includes practicing stretching and understanding how to use their bodies safely.
Basic Steps and Movements: Introducing fundamental dance steps such as hopping, skipping, and basic turns. Simple ballet positions and basic jazz steps.
Following Directions: Enhancing their ability to listen to and follow verbal and visual cues from the teacher.
Spatial Awareness: Teaching them to understand their position in space and to respect the space of others while dancing.
Creativity and Expression: Encouraging them to use their imagination and express themselves through dance. This can be through improvisation or simple choreographed routines.
Social Skills: Learning to work with others, share space, and cooperate in a group setting. This includes taking turns and showing respect.
Enjoyment and Confidence: Most importantly, fostering a love for dance and building their confidence in their abilities. Positive reinforcement and creating a supportive environment are key.

Additional Events & Performances for all Combo 1-4 Dancers:

Recreational Competition – When dancers are in Combo, they will be entered into their first 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 either their ballet or 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.
Monster Mash – Near the end of October, dancers get the opportunity to come into class wearing a Halloween or any costume of their choice and we will perform the Monster Mash for parents to view. Its a fun evening of spooky fun, and a right of passage for all TDA Dancers! The dates for these performances and additional information will be sent throughout the year.
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. Combo dancers will have one day of pictures in their one assigned costumes for their end of year routine. 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, or hip hop 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: CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

Please bring dance bag to class for dancers to change from their regular shoes and into their dance shoes, as well as a small water bottle for them to keep with them. We ask that you label all shoes with name. See below for a few pictures from some of our Youngest Combo classes to help you see what dancers typically wear, as well as a video from this past season recital.