This class is split between Classical Ballet and Tap Dance. Ballet is an excellent way of developing strength, flexibility, control and improving posture. Tap dance is excellent for developing musicality, co-ordination and also great fun.
The Ballet part of the class incorporates basic ballet vocabulary and mime. In tap we teach basic rhythm and footwork. We use props to make the class fun and interactive and focus on co-ordination and correct posture. Mime and storytelling also help children develop creativity and and imagination; which are important in child development. This class is suitable for all abilities and encourages group work and confidence building.
Children are assessed through class examinations or medal tests awarded by the UKA Examination board. This is a fun experience where the children learn and perform short routines as a group, with their class teacher to an external examiner. As a guideline, children usually complete the full UNI-TED plaque with 6 awards over a period of 18-24 months. This is based on taking 2 awards in their first year, and then 4 awards in their second year.
Once children have completed the UKA UNI-TED programme, they move onto ISTD Primary class test syllabi in ballet and tap. Children have the option of taking ISTD class test examinations if they fulfil the exam board requirements.
We understand that not every child wants to take exams, which is why all our class tests and exams are completely optional. Whilst UKA Class tests do not involve additional practice, ISTD exams do require more commitment, and coaching classes outside of normal lessons.
We also understand that all children progress at different rates and the variation in ability does not always depend upon age. Small group sizes with a maximum of 14 children in each class, allow us to focus on personalised learning and adapt our teaching level accordingly so we get the best out of each class.
The Dang Theatre and Dance Syllabus was created to offer up to date, industry relevant and well- rounded training programmes in various areas of Dance and Musical Theatre. It is designed to develop triple-threat performers and focuses on a holistic process of nurturing talent through progressive training.
The Dang: Street and Commercial Dance
The Dang Street and Commercial dance syllabus offers a progressive structure for young dancers to gain achievement and improvement in several genres of dance widely used within the industry: hip-hop, commercial, locking, popping, house and breaking. Students have the opportunity to specialise in particular styles, whilst learning how to improvise and perform choreographed routines. There are graded examinations and also medal tests available. This type of dance is energetic and upbeat and involves spins, kicks and leaps with lots of armography and body isolations. You will experience a fusion of modern music and dance styles, encouraging freedom of expression and artistry. Because the nature of freestyle is so diverse – routines and music are influenced by modern jazz and commercial dance. Each lesson will include a warm up and set of short combination steps followed by a routine, which will be added to each week.
The Dang: Musical Theatre
In these classes children will develop skills in dance, singing and acting. They will learn short combinations and longer dance routines that integrate these skills and work towards a themed project each term. Through our expert tuition, students will build confidence in reading and speaking out loud, challenge their performance skills and work as a team. Each lesson consists of a vocal and physical warm up, followed by a song and dance routine and/or script work. In all Under 11s classes the dance technique studied is Jazz and Street and Commercial Dance.
