~ CLASS DESCRIPTIONS ~
PRIMA: 1x per week, 45 min (4 class times offered)
Prima is the foundational class at Honolulu Classical Ballet that introduces young students to the world of dance. A child’s sense of creativity and imagination are encouraged while introducing them to the fundamental elements of movement. This entry-level class explores the creative and physical dimensions of each child in consideration to their cognitive, physical, and social developmental needs. Children are introduced to music, rhythm, and movement while exploring the concepts of space, time, force, body and form. Classroom exercises develop gross motor skills, strength, flexibility, coordination and balance, while introducing students to the structure, etiquette and discipline of dance.
Ages: 3+
INTRO TO BALLET TECHNIQUE: 1x per week, 1 hr (3 class times offered)
Intro to Ballet Technique provides a critical transition from Prima to the first level of classical ballet training at Honolulu Classical Ballet. Fundamentals of foundational ballet technique will be introduced in this course. Students will become familiar with the structure and discipline of a ballet class. This is the first level of training where students are introduced to barre work and basic ballet terminology. Music, movement, and creativity continue to be explored for an efficient transition from Prima to Intro to Ballet Technique.
Ages: 5+
PREPARATORY TO BALLET TECHNIQUE 1: 2x per week, 1hr (2 class times offered)
In Preparatory to Ballet Technique 1, students continue their technical development started in the Intro to Ballet Tech level. Students learn the clear execution of ballet positions, combinations, the progression of a standard ballet barre, and learning the French vocabulary that defines all ballet steps. Students move into beginning center work, away from the support of the ballet barre. They learn to memorize longer combinations as the class advances and to develop accurate preparatory positions that serve as a base for technical elements in upper-level classes.
Ages: 7+
BALLET TECHNIQUE: 2x per week, 1 hr
In Ballet Tech, the coordination of musicality along with technical skills are emphasized as part of their technical and artistic training. Students work to develop safe and correct alignment at the barre and in center work. Awareness of turn-out, body direction, face direction, and clear arm positions are introduced. Development of self-expression through foundational technical skills are explored in this class.
Ages: 8+
BALLET TECHNIQUE 1: 2x per week, 1 hr
In Ballet Tech 1, students expand their ballet vocabulary and are introduced to right and left side barre work as they continue their training in the proper execution of positions, preparations, technical steps. As the students’ strength and classical technique progress, steps in center work combinations are added. This class also introduces self-discipline, focus, diligence, character development, and teamwork.
Ages: 9+
BALLET TECHNIQUE 1A: 3x per week, 1 hr
This class builds upon the foundation begun in Ballet Technique 1 and focuses on consolidating and further developing the dancers’ classical technique. Dancers in this level should have a clear understanding of the proper execution of technical steps and continue to acquire ballet vocabulary as artistic expression is introduced. Students learn longer combinations and choreography with an attention to detail. Classroom focus, problem-solving skills, and strength in character are highly encouraged.
Ages: 10+
BALLET TECHNIQUE 2: 3x per week, 1 hr
Dancers are required to have a clear understanding of classical technique and accurately execute technical steps on a consistent basis. Combinations at the barre and center work become increasingly complex with a focus on technical accuracy, musicality, and attention to “turn-out”. Artistry is developed through consistent performance opportunities as the dancer matures. Performing is an integral part of a dancer's training at Honolulu Classical Ballet.
Ages: 11+
BALLET TECHNIQUE 3: 3x per week, 1.25 hrs
Ballet Tech 3 is a class for the serious dance student. The focus of this class is to develop a well-rounded ballet dancer. Advanced combinations coupled with clean and precise technique are required at this level. Students are trained to develop problem-solving skills in their class work as they continue their creative development as young artists. Consistent work ethic, self-discipline, and accountability are expected in this class.
Ages: 12+
POINTE TECHNIQUE: various class times
In this class, students are introduced to the next step in classical ballet training. Proper alignment of the feet and body for correct placement in pointe shoes is stressed, serving as a foundation for healthy technical training. Foot strength is developed through repetitive exercises at the barre and later in center work. This class, in conjunction with Ballet Technique 3 and Ballet Technique 4 prepares students for solo classical and neoclassical variations on pointe. Focus and diligence, with proper execution of technique is required for safety and progress in this class.
Ages: 11+
CONTEMPORARY BALLET TECHNIQUE: 1x per week, 1hr
This intermediate-level contemporary class is designed for dancers with a solid classical ballet foundation, who are ready to introduce elements of contemporary dance technique to their training. Dancers are lead through a study on the dynamics of movement, physicality, and the relationship with the ground. The goal is to bring the dancer to express themselves freely through their own personality and emotions, without altering the integrity of the movement and choreography.
Ages: 11+
BALLET TECHNIQUE 4: 4x per wk, 2 hrs
Ballet Tech 4 students have a solid classical technical base and have been exposed to all sub-genres of ballet - classical, neoclassical, and contemporary ballet. Strength and accuracy in pointe work are further developed as students mature in their technical and artistic training. Self-motivation and the individual’s drive towards excelling in the art form are a must at this level. Classical ballet variations are taught and coached (first-hand), as the dancer develops technically and artistically onstage (in performances) and offstage (in the class setting). Dancers in this level are expected to have a good understanding of teamwork and great leadership skills.
Ages: 13+
PRE PRO: 1x per week, 1.5 hours
For the advanced and mature student looking to pursue their passion of dance in a college program or a professional track. Mentorship and specialized coaching are provided to help students prepare for applications and auditions to programs abroad. Students at this level are well versed in classical, neoclassical, pointe, variations, and contemporary ballet.
Ages: 13+
DROP-IN TECHNIQUE: 3x per week, 1.5 hrs
This class is designed for the ballet enthusiast, taught at an intermediate level in a structured yet friendly environment. Barre and center exercises are learned through a series of combinations. A great workout for every dancer as they learn the correct execution of technical steps, balance points, and musicality in the art form. No dress code is required for this class, however form-fitting attire is recommended. Taught at an intermediate/advanced level.
DROP-IN CONTEMPORARY: 1x per week, 1 hr
This class is for the intermediate contemporary ballet student. Class will begin with a warm-up designed to enhance technique, balance, and alignment. Working across the floor, dancers will learn to move more effectively through space while instilling clarity into their movement. Phrase work will focus on musicality and freedom of movement while maintaining strong technique. Students will be encouraged to take risks, both physical and emotional to further develop their individual expression.