Upper Division

The Upper Division offers year-round classes focused on a dancer's development and progression toward becoming a member of the Valley Dance Theatre Company. Instruction is offered in classical ballet and modern dance for ages 10 and up.

Ballet lll/Junior Company (Pointe & Pre-Pointe)

Pointe work will begin when students demonstrate sufficient maturity, dedication, strength, technique and proper body alignment. The instructor will notify students when they are eligible for pointe classes. Students in Ballet III Pre-Pointe/Pointe  class are required to take a minimum of two ballet classes per week.

Ballet lV/Apprentices and Junior Company (placed by Instructor)

Pointe work and technical development continues in preparation for advancement to the Company. This level requires a significant time commitment, as many of the dancers may perform in Company productions. Students in Ballet IV Pointe class are required to take a minimum of three ballet classes per week.

Company (placed by Instructor)

Significant movement quality and understanding of proper placement and alignment are required. Technical ability, strong work ethic, self-motivation and self discipline are also required. Advanced technique and pointe work continue. Performance quality is refined. Students in Company Pointe class are required to take a minimum of three ballet classes per week.

Partnering (available to Company members with Director's approval)

Students learn techniques for classical ballet pas de deux partnering, including turns, jumps and lifts.

Men's Ballet (Ages 10 and up-placed by Instructor)

The men's ballet class teaches the fundamentals of ballet, proper alignment and dance movement most frequently used in choreography for male dancers, including jumps, leaps and turns.

Contemporary, Character, & Conditioning  (Ballet IV and Company only)

Character dance is the study of native/folk dances from around the world. This is an  essential class for ballet dancers, as most classical ballets use character dances based on these folk traditions.

Contemporary dance uses the technique of ballet and modern dance and adds other elements of movement to give a very free, released style of dance. Contemporary dance is not only fun, it compliments a classical dance education to make a well-rounded, strong dancer.

Conditioning will be taught one class each month by a trainer with special skills in helping dancers with strength and flexibility.

Adult Classes (Beginning and Intermediate)

This class allows teens and adults the opportunity to enjoy and learn dance for fitness and recreation while developing strength, balance and flexibility. Adult and teen students are always welcome to join other classes at their ability level.