Ballet provides the basics for all other styles of dance. Classical ballet originated over 500 years ago in court dances and has continually developed over time. Traditionally, ballet has been a way of telling a story using music, dance and mime. Classical Ballet is a very technical style of dance that provides students with the basics of correct posture, coordination and muscle strength that can then be used in any physical activity. At Leaps and Bounds Dance School, our ballet classes follow the Australian Teachers of Dancing syllabus (ATOD) and we offer optional ballet exams. To complete ballet exams, students must be enrolled in both the weekday ballet class and Saturday exam class in Sale. Pointe classes are available for those students who have received teacher approval to begin pointe work.
Jazz originated from African tribal dances. It has been reshaped and developed over time by the changes in music and by influences of the time. Jazz is a fun and energetic style of dance that is now mostly used in musical theatre and in stage shows. Jazz combines the technical aspects of ballet with more dynamic movements to faster music.
Tap emerged at the end of the 1800's and the beginning of the 1900's in African-American communities. It didn't take long to get a foothold in stage shows and has been a popular style ever since. Recently groups including the Tap Dogs, Bootmen and Stomp have increased popularity of the style. Tap is a great style for developing musicality, rhythm, co-ordination and timing.
Contemporary is a style of dance that encompasses many facets of movement, continually exploring and discovering new ways of moving. Often titled 'modern dance', contemporary uses a range of movement qualities, dynamics and music in its classes. The best way to find out what contemporary is, is to come along and try a class!
Hip Hop has been influenced by music and has transformed once again into a range of styles including funk which is used extensively in pop music videos, and hip hop which is used extensively in R&B music videos. These styles are very current and popular among our students!
AcroDance or acro as it is commonly referred to by dancers and dance professionals, is the beautiful fusion of classic dance technique and the precision and athleticism of acrobatic elements. Often defined by unique choreography, acro dancers seamlessly blend musicality, emotional expression, line and extension with acrobatic movements in a dance context. Acro technique includes balancing, limbering, tumbling and partnering, based in flexibility, contortion and strength.
Singing classes incorporate vocal warm ups, technique and repetoire, with a strong musical theatre focus.
Heels is a jazz-based class for our Advanced dancers done in heeled chorus shoes, incorporating broadway and musical theatre styles.
Kinder Dance provides a fun and safe environment in which 3-4 year old children can explore music and movement through dance and improvisation.
Toddler Dance provides a fun and safe environment in which 2-3 year old children can explore music and movement through dance and improvisation, with the optional assistance of a parent or guardian.
DanceFit classes offer fun and fitness for all ages with easy-to-follow dance/fitness routines! Payment is made on a casual basis and each class costs $15. Come along and try a class - all welcome! There will be NO classes held during our school holidays. Classes will not run on public holidays.
Troupe classes are for students involved in our eisteddfod teams. For more information please contact us.
Strength & Flexibility classes encourage flexibility, strength and fitness through conditioning for dancers.