Classes and Descriptions
Adult Dance:
This class is for adults who love to move! Various techniques will be taught including ballet, hoofing style tap and jazz. This class is designed for everyone who loves to dance.you may be surprised with yourself!
African:
The term refers mainly to the dances of subsaharan and West Africa. A central trait of African dance is that it is polycentric. This means that - unlike many other regions of the world - the body is not treated as a "stiff" unit but is segmented into several centers of movement (shoulders, chest, pelvis, arms, legs etc.) that may be moved according to different rhythmical components of the music or even add rhythmical components of their own. This may result in very complex movements "inside" the body, as opposed to the movement through space of the whole body that plays the most important role in many European choreographies. Africans dance in all sorts of occasions to express their inner feelings, whether of joy or of sorrow. While the dancing is spontaneous and voluntary, the drumbeat provides the rhythm that holds the dancers together. All African classes at JPAC have live drummers and incorporate a modern approach to traditional African techniques.
Arts, Crafts and Story Hour:
If you are looking for something fun and educational during the day then you’ve found the right place! As arts leaders in children’s education we have devoted a weekly hour so children can experience Arts, Crafts and Story Hour! This exciting hour of activity leads students through an imaginative world where each week is something new! This hour can include a story, making beautiful artwork, movement expression, instrument play and much more. This class is designed for parents to be involved with their child for the hour of class providing a wonderful time for bonding and involvement. This class is ideal for mommy groups, home schooled children and young ones still at home. Come join us for a fabulous creative filled hour!!!
Baby Moves:
Baby Moves is a program designed for baby and Mommy (or Daddy) to form a bond through movement. Whether it is Yoga, Pilates or Creative Movement the class will focus on interactive steps and exercises involving both mom & infant. Mommy benefits include: gaining core strength, losing baby weight, increasing bond with baby, forming supportive relationships with other new mommies, helps relieve postpartum, re-develop or develop for the first time a positive body image. Baby benefits includes: improving gross motor skills, muscle development including reflexes, forms strong bond with mommy, provides supportive environment to develop social skills, improves attention span and memory. Baby Moves is a program designed around positive ideas and relations while improving both the mind and the body.
Belly Dance:
Coming from Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean cultures as early as 14th century BC belly dance is a flowing dance form made for the female body. Belly dance is done is bare feet to promote a relationship with the ground and is characterized by smooth, flowing, sensual movements mixed with shaking and shimmies. This is a complex dance form that is a lot of fun.
(Ballet) Pre-Ballet
This ballet class focuses on learning proper classroom etiquette, ballet terminology and provides a strong base for students wanting to explore and create through movement. It is recommended that students have been enrolled in the mini movers' classes and then move up to pre-ballet.
Ballet I:
This is a novice level Ballet course designed to provide the student with specific, well-structured exercises in the classical ballet style. Memory, concentration and body awareness are all emphasized while motor skills and coordination are developed with great care in this developmental stage in the students' life. French terms are used to expand the ballet vocabulary and knowledge.
Ballet II:
This class is designed for the beginner student who has some prior knowledge of this classical dance form. Beginner classes are structured with a traditional ballet warm-up at the barre, center and across the floor exercises. Special attention will also be given to improve the body lines to be both graceful and powerful.
Ballet III:
We have now entered a world of more technicality and expression through this beautiful classical style of dance. Classes in this level and above will increase in length and require concentrated focus from the student. The students expand their knowledge and skills through disciplined studies and a commitment to the art form.
Ballet IV:
This advanced level technique class is designed for dancers who have already had years of ballet training. Proper placement, as well as an understanding of ballet terminology, is expected before entering the classroom. Students will work at the barre, center and across the floor to develop themselves as movers in space.
Because this is the highest level of ballet here at Jeslyn all students at this level must be extremely committed to their studies. There is an increased focus on self-discipline both inside and outside the ballet classroom. Students in this level are strongly encouraged to audition for the Pre-Professional Dance Company and experience multiple classes per week.
(Ballet) Pointe/Demi Pointe:
All dancers must seek instructor approval before entering this class. Dancers must have a prior knowledge of ballet technique, have proper body placement/weight and be committed to taking and maintaining multiple ballet classes weekly. There is no certain age that any dancer should go directly onto pointe. At Jeslyn we believe in creating a strong technical dancer in ballet which will serve as a stepping stone to dancers going on pointe. Each dancer is assessed and given an individual, customized time in which it is appropriate for them to being dancing en pointe.
Baton I-IV:
Twirling classes at JPAC emphasis and utilize twirling standards set forth by the United States Twirling Association (USTA). All baton classes perform in parades and select classes compete in competitions on the state, regional and national level.
Boys Movement:
This class was designed around the specific needs of boys! Students will learn movements that will be helpful in improving athletic skills, balance, proprioception and agility. The world of sports will be used to create lesson plans boys can relate to and use in their everyday life. As some of the best athletes train in dance, yoga and pilates techniques this will help boys expand their physical abilities in a way unlike any other.
Contemporary Ballet
[see Advanced Lyrical]
Choreography (Advanced):
Through exploration and experimentation this class will help you to focus your choreographic skills, allowing your artistic voice to be heard. As you grow as an artist you will learn how to make what is in your head appear on stage. Students will learn more about who they are as a person as well as how to lead others through their own choreography.
Choreography for Kids
[see Kids Creation Choreography]
Creative Adults Program:
Every month at JPAC we let the adults channel their inner creativity with workshops geared towards specific interests. We currently offer Saturday classes once a month in belly dance, adult ballet, tap/hoofing & jazz as well as some adult improv classes. These classes are designed for the beginner through the advanced student and promote fitness in a different light.
Hip-Hop I-IV:
Originally known as a street dance, Hip Hop is now a fun and exciting dance technique that is gaining national recognition. This dance form is extremely popular along the west coast and is spreading its unique characteristics across the world. Done to popular music this dance form teaches rhythm, isolation, body awareness and control.
Hot Yoga
[see Yoga (Hot)]
Jazz I-IV:
Jeslyn fuses together many styles of Jazz dance in every class to appeal to all sorts of levels and tastes. Jazz classes focus on creating a strong technique backing while a lot of attention is given to personal expression.
Kids Art:
Saturday afternoon continues to be an exciting time for children and families at the Museum. You do not want to miss the look of delight and wonder that appears on your child's face when he or she strokes a brush loaded with brightly colored paint on a large sheet of blank white paper, or when a chunk of clay squishes between your child's fingers.
Expert artists and educators conduct the Saturday afternoon program providing quality experiences for young people. Saturday KidsArt is generously sponsored by Heiner's with additional support from B' "Nai B' "rith Lodge No. 795.
Kids Creation Choreography:
Students ages 6-12 will love this class dedicated to creativity. Through imagery, visualization, drawing, painting and exploration students will learn how to communicate their emotions, create movement vocabulary and develop their own personal creative voices.
Kindermusik:
Being named the world's leading music and movement program for young children this program speaks for itself. Classes are designed for children ages newborn through seven years with the child and parent at the center of the learning process. Classes consist of singing, creative movement, guided exploration and age appropriate educational activities that improve sensory, language, math and reading skills. Through certified teachers your child with begin making memories through music.
Kindermusik Family Time
Music for the whole family! This class invites parents with children ages newborn thru seven years of age to participate in this family time event. This class is wonderful for parents with multiple children and has a little something for everyone. Kindermusik curriculum is taught using songs, stories, movement exploration and instruments.
Advanced Lyrical (Conteporary Ballet):
Ballet is taken to a contemporary level where students will experience classic technique in a more open and creative atmosphere. Students will improve in areas of grace, control, body lines, turns and expression through movement.
Manners Matter™:
All students who are a part of our Manners Matter Program will love our fun approach to proper manners and behavior while parents are relieved that their little angels are even more angelic! Manners Matter classes are a practical way to help your child respect themselves and others. All classes are geared towards those children just beginning to learn their manners as well as those who just need another way to look at things. Classes reinforce and expand upon what is taught at home and focus on everything from table and phone manners to how to write a thank you note and throw a proper tea party. This class provides students with a structure and a set of social guidelines from now until forever. Movement, song and art activities are combined to teach students the wonderful world of manners! (Your dinner guests will thank you!)
Mini Movers™ I & II:
All mini movers classes are custom created at JPAC to bring your child formal technique training with a lot of education and fun along the way! All classes involve a total body warm up, story time with handmade costumes and themed props to provide a tactile learning environment. Students will learn ballet technique in a new and innovative manner sure to spark their creative little minds.
- Ballet: Any color Leotard, Pink Ballet Shoes, Pink or Black Tights or White Socks
- Tap: Any color Leotard, Black Tap Shoes, Pink or Black Tights or White Socks
- Baton: Any color Leotard and Tights or White Socks, Tan or Black Twirling Shoes or Ballet Slippers
- Hip-Hop: Something the student can comfortably move in; Pants or Shorts with a Top; Dance Shoes or clean tennis shoes.
- Jazz: Any dancewear will do! Jazz shoes, Bare feet or Ballet Slippers.
Mini Movers™ Day Camp:
Great for the young dancer who is already comfortable with a drop off class. This camp provides a wonderful first experience for incorporating many experiences all into one. Camp will start each day with a movement warm-up followed by a story and dance including costumes and props. We will then do a craft that is both educational and fun as well as have a healthy snack and drink. Games that incorporate trust and bonding with friends will end this fun morning full of activity!
Modern I:
Novice level modern dance pulls from many different movement styles. All aspects of modern dance will be introduced to the dancers including space, time and energy, levels, pathways, etc. Creative movement and choreography are also utilized as tools to provide better understanding. This class increases body awareness and knowledge. Many classes also incorporate a cross-curricular lesson plan that pulls from both modern dance and other school related subjects.
Modern II:
This beginner's level class goes a step further by encouraging creative exploration of a more in-depth modern dance experience. The students learn specific techniques greatly influenced by Horton and Graham. Vocabulary is expanded as well as development in mind and body.
Modern III:
The intermediate level class begins to focus on developing extremely intent body awareness and alignment. The student will develop strength, flexibility and stamina. This level goes further in depth with floor work and body mechanics. Certain anatomy terminology is taught to increase the movement experience.
Modern IV:
This advanced level course emphasizes extreme attention to detail on the technical level. Memory retention is challenged as well as the body. Improvisation, partnering work and movement manipulation philosophies are developed in this phase of study. Core work and strength become an integral component to this level course as the body will be put to its limit.
Musical Theatre/Acting:
The Musical Theatre & acting programs at Jeslyn is one that relies on participation of students in every way imaginable. Not only do the students act but they also have the chance to tap into their playwriting abilities, costuming design and construction and some directing responsibilities. Classes cover everything from audition skills to being the star of the show. Both the younger and older division are constantly performing and creating.
Pilates:
[see Yoga/Pilates]
Pre-Ballet
[see Ballet]
Pre-Professional Dance Company:
This not for profit dance company is a branch of the professional company Jeslyn Dance Gallery. While intense in nature this audition only company is designed around the professional companies across the United States. There are many components to the company such as weekly rehearsal and performance, minimum two dance classes per week, stage management work, fundraising, assistant teaching, community outreach, choreography and costume design.
The Company runs from fall to spring sessions and requires a commitment on contract by each dancer and parent(s). Serious dancers who chose to be involved in the Pre-Professional Dance Company get a chance to experience learning in a real life situation and get to choose their focus each year. The company does multiple performances throughout the season and also has a chance to go on tour either nationally or internationally.
Pointe
[see (Ballet) Pointe/Demi Pointe]
Sign & Move:
This innovative program combines movement with the American Sign Language. Students will use their vocal chords and movement abilities by learning various musical selections paired with sign language and dance steps. This class is a fun educational experience where both the mind and body are challenged.
Tap I-IV:
All tap classes provide instruction in both the classical and 'hoofing' styles of tap dance. Rhythm is emphasized by using the body as the instrument in this fun form of dance.
Special Needs Movement
Nothing is more natural than movement. This class is specifically designed for disabled children ages 6-12 years old. Through dance, children will connect their brains to their bodies. Activities used in the class will be based on the SAFE method: Sensory-Motor, Appropriate, Fun and Easy. Whether your child faces challenges with touch, balance, movement, body position, motor planning, or other sensory problems, this class will present lively and engaging ways to bring fun and play into everyday situations.
Instructor: Megan Salter
Qualifications: Special Education Teacher, BA Elementary Education/Mental Impairment/Dance Minor, MA Multi-Categorical Special Education (LD, BD, MI) Autism and Gifted
Twirling I-II
[see Baton]
Yoga/Pilates:
Join us on your lunch break for a relaxing and rejuvenating mid-day workout, or try out a class later in the evening after your workday is finished. Both Pilates and Yoga will be utilized to give you a full body toning and stretch class that will both develop core strength and expand your flexibility. Various Yoga styles are taught at JPAC and include Vinyasa Flow, Ashtanga, Iyengar and Hatha. Pilates classes are taught using philosophies from the PhysicalMind Institute. Everyone must provide their own mat.
Yoga (Hot)
Be ready to sweat! This strictly Vinyasa Flow Yoga class is done in a 98.7 degree heated room. The room is kept at your body's natural temperature to provide an environment in which your body can find a little extra stretch while saying goodbye to a lot of extra calories!
Yoga for Kids
Kids need stress relief too! Students in this class will benefit from a kid friendly style of yoga that introduces new yoga postures, expands on sun salutations and provides a safe environment to let go of any stress and anxiety. All students will need a mat.
Zumba
This class fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a dynamic workout system that will blow you away. While achieving long term health benefits, you will also experience an exhilarating hour of calorie-burning, heart-racing, muscle-pumping, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements.
Zumba Toning
Zumba Toning takes the original Zumba dance-fitness class to the next level. We add special light-weight toning sticks, which shake like maracas, to emphasize muscle work along with rhythms. It is fun, different, challenging and effective. Zumba Toning provides a new avenue for light weight training. It is the latest in the Zumba-fitness craze!