General Class Descriptions
2017-2018 Year
Pre-school - Kindergarten Levels
Dancers sing songs, play games, dress up, and pretend while they learn the fundamentals of dance.
Princess & Pirate - 2 ½ to young 4 ballet and tap
Fairy tale - older 3 to 4 year old
L1 - generally young kindergarten
Fairytale and up classes perform in all three shows
Elementary Levels
Elementary levels are encouraged to take a trial class before buying the uniform to ensure it is the correct level. A professional dancer is in each class as a demonstrator at this level.
L1 - generally Kindergarten
L2-5 generally new 8-9 year olds, experienced 6-7 year olds - this is the first level that is encouraged to start twice a week if possible and that has an hour devoted entirely to ballet
Notes: students in L2-5 who wish to take tap should take the last 15 minutes of L1-4 on Saturday
Advanced Level
Advanced levels are based on technical level and not age. A professional dancer is in each class as a demonstrator at all advanced levels.
Musical Theater (tap & jazz) is a separate class for all advanced levels
L5-8 generally 9-12 year olds, is strongly encouraged twice a week ballet - may take 3 times per week - is first level who can take contemporary or variations. May take contemporary twice per week even if only taking ballet once per week (based on child’s interest)
Level 9-12 year olds, is strongly encouraged two to three times per week ballet - may take 4 times per week. May take variations and contemporary. May take contemporary twice per week.
Apprentice - advanced ballet students. Professional dancers take class with apprentice level. Apprentice level dancers may apply to be a part of the conservatory program (a serious pre-professional program).
All Level 7 and up ballet classes also include pre-pointe/pointe and a rehearsal period
Select Multiple day classes share a costume to be cost conscious
Note: If you have any scheduling challenges with your child’s level, please reach out to director Elizabeth at elizabethhesterballet@gmail.com. We strive to cater to each family’s needs.