(Ages 12+)
Prerequisite: Basic Ballet (Instructor Approval Required)
At this level, there is a marked developmental leap, both in the technical aspects of class and in the seriousness with which training is taken by the dancer. This is the age when the young dancer begins to evaluate past experiences in dance and to question whether or not a career would be desirable.
Training intensifies to match this period of self-evaluation. All past work is repeated in more complex combinations increasing strength, endurance, stamina and ability to link steps together in a fluid manner. Understanding of motivation, movement goals, imagery, and presentation are stressed in order to develop better artistic expression.Pre- pointe is introduced at this level. This level is typically repeated. Evaluation for full pointe work is conducted at the end of the 2nd year.