Classes

The curriculum for the Summer Dance Lab program includes both high level technique classes and elective courses on subjects critical to the development of a complete dancer. SDL's teaching philosophy is designed to create dancers that are versatile and prepared to work with any company. Classroom schedules are arranged to resemble a professional dancer's day. Stressed throughout the students' training is the building of strength, beauty of line, agility, ease of execution, and bringing their imagination to their dancing.

Classes in Music Comprehension, Terminology, and "hows" of structuring a ballet class round out the curriculum. Scheduled discussion groups between students and faculty members occur weekly.

Courses

Ballet Technique
Pointe
Partnering
Variations
Men's Class
Modern
American Theater
Jazz
Pilates

Electives

Tap
Auditioning
Preparing Resumes
Singing
Acting for Dancers
Dance History
Dance Kinesiology/Physiology
Pointe Shoe Care
Yoga
Improvisation
Contact Improvisation
Music Theory and Appreciation

Students are required to take four classes five days a week and morning class on Saturdays. The day begins with Ballet Technique and Pointe in the morning, while afternoon sessions alternate between two of the following: Modern, Jazz, and American Theater. In addition students are to choose among an offering of evening electives. Those participating in the five week program will have the opportunity to take part in a faculty choreography workshop or a student produced talent show. Students may also be prepared to participate in Saturday showings following the end of each session. Parents are also encouraged to observe classes on the last day of each session and to speak with the instructors of the class.

"...I really enjoyed all the classes SDL provided. ...the teachers were phenomenal in their fields"
—Mary Lottridge, Alum