Introduction to classes

Bringing the best of training in small class format by highly trained instructors. Lafayette Ballet School was opened in 1988 by Director, Sandra Peticolas. The school maintains a base of classical ballet to train the students. Supplementary classes in character and pointe, variations, jazz, theater dance, and conditioning are introduced as appropriate to round out the classical training and the future repertory of the young dancers.

Lower Division:

recital The specific coordination and maturity needed in ballet are not easily taught to very young children. Special classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds are offered.

Our regular instruction begins at age 6 with Dance Basics. These are joyous years of imagination, rhythm, energy and learned self awareness, but within a structure inherent to the discipline of ballet. Therefore along with the physical training of the body comes the need to wait, listen, apply, and repeat.

Me and My Pal - for 3 and 4 year olds with a friend 18 or older
Creative Dance for 5 year olds
Dance Basics for 6 and 7 year olds
Fundamentals of Ballet 1 for 7-9 year olds
Fundamentals of Ballet 2 for 8-10 year olds - 2 classes per week recommended
Beginning Ballet 1 for age 10 and older - 2 classes per week required
Beginning Ballet 2 for previously enrolled students by placement - 2 classes per week required
Introduction to Character Dance - may be substituted for the 2nd class at the Beg. 1 and 2 level

Boys Special Boys ONLY Scholarship Introduction to Dance. Don't miss this opportunity to instill balance, coordination, and musicality into your developing athlete.

Adult:

Adult/Teen Classes are available in ballet, and conditioning. A class card is available for purchase at $60 for 5 classes or $110 for 10 classes. 90 minute classes are marked as 1.5 classes. Please come to the registration desk, or have the instructor mark the card before class. The adult dress code is less strict, and adults are encouraged to wear close fitting dance wear but follow their choices for color and decorum. Proper shoe wear is essential.

amber class

Upper Division:

The upper division continues and intensifies the training of the lower division. The technique and development at these levels allow for performance opportunities. It is essential to have regular classes so that the body perfects the careful alignment and coordination begun earlier. Advancement hinges on consistency and repetition. There is no other way.

The levels are as follows:

Beginning Ballet 3 with a requirement of at least 2 ballet technique classes per week and optional classes in Character/Variations and pre-pointe.

At Elementary Levels the demands and expectations increase (3 and 4 technique classes per week). Additional options include character, variations, pointe. Company apprentices are usually chosen and invited from these levels.

Intermediate Advanced classes comprise the training ground for the Company. An exciting and diverse faculty lend international perspective and challenging classes in Ballet, Pointe, and contemporary forms. Rigorous rehearsal demands prepare our students for upcoming performances and the artistry of the stage.

Classes can be observed upon request by visitors and prospective students. Parents are encouraged to observe from the windows or outside the classroom as they are able. An understanding of the rigorous demands of the training will help parents to better encourage their children.