Category: Dancer Stories

Exploring the Art of Technique

This summer, embark on an exceptional training experience designed to broaden your understanding of the diverse approaches to classical ballet. Discover what works best for your individual and artistic growth. Over the course of the program, dancers will have the opportunity to study with distinguished faculty specializing in the Russian Technique, the Cuban Method, and the American stylistic approach to ballet. Each week will allow dancers to discover the distinct qualities of each style, learn how to master its unique principles, and apply them within the realm of their vocabulary.

Weekly sessions will conclude with an informal in-studio presentation, showcasing the material explored throughout the week. The program also includes essential classes for today’s versatile dancer, such as Body Conditioning, Variations, Partnering, Character and Contemporary which will further support a dancer’s development, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive training experience. This program is thoughtfully designed to cultivate both technical excellence and artistic depth within a focused and consistent learning environment.

Weekly Breakdown

The Russian Technique Weeks combine strength, artistry, and precision. Developed by Russian ballerina and pedagogue Agrippina Vaganova, this method emphasizes a harmonious balance between expressive upper body movement and clean, powerful technique. Dancers trained in the Vaganova style develop exceptional strength, musicality, and fluidity, supported by a strong technical foundation. Through a carefully structured progression, the method nurtures not only disciplined, versatile artists but also a deep understanding of the art form’s beauty and tradition.

The Cuban Method Weeks blend together strength, passion, and exceptional coordination. Developed by combining the finest elements of the world’s great ballet techniques, and enriched with Latin Flair and rhythmic vitality, this method produces dancers known for their athleticism, artistry and vibrant stage presence. With a focus on both technical mastery and emotional expression, the Cuban Method shapes performers who captivate audiences with energy, elegance, and soul. 

The American Style Week is a peek into the American approach to ballet, celebrated for its speed, precision, and musical brilliance. These classes are inspired with the emphasis on clarity of movement, precise footwork, and an energized use of the upper body. Dancers will gain a heightened sense of musicality and freedom, blending athleticism with elegance. Known for its sleek, modern aesthetic, this pushes dancers to move beyond traditional boundaries – bringing classical ballet to life with boldness, sophistication, and dynamic artistry.

The Program

5 Weeks
July 12 – August 13, 2027

Schedule
Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 1:30pm

July 12 – 17: Russian Technique Week
July 19 – 24: Russian Technique Week
July 26 – July 31: Cuban Method Week
August 2 – 7: Cuban Method Week
August 9 – 13: American Style Week

To be eligible students must be at least 12 years old, with at least one year of pointe experience at the start of the program.

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More Information

Uniforms

All students should bring a yoga mat.

For female identifying dancers:

• Solid-color leotards (no cutouts, mesh, or sequins)
• Black Tank Leotard for Showing/Performance Purposes
• Pink or skin-tone tights
• Ballet slippers (pink or skin-tone) with sewn elastic (for ballet classes)
• Pointe shoes
• Black character shoes (for level 4)
• Knee-length character skirt (for level 4)
• Short black pull-on skirt for Showing/Performance Purposes
• Convertible or footless tights (for contemporary class)

For male identifying dancers:

• Gray tights
• Fitted white t-shirt
• White Ballet Slippers
• White Socks
• Black Character Shoes  (Level 4)