FSPA Continues Children’s Dance Programming

The Franklin School for the Performing Arts (FSPA), currently celebrating its 35th Anniversary Season, continues its thriving Children’s Dance Program. Dance training at FSPA begins with an Early Childhood Dance Program designed to promote creativity and fun through movement. This introduction to ballet and dance encourages self-control, discipline, and proper classroom etiquette.

Creative Dance, a class for 3- and 4-year-olds, is an introduction to dance that explores creative movement, levels, shapes, tempos, and rhythms and develops coordination and locomotor skills. Props and stories are used to engage young children and to create a fun and active learning environment. This class presents a studio performance in lieu of the school’s Spring Concert. Students must be able to participate in class without parental presence and should be cooperative in a group situation. Three-year-olds must be evaluated in a class prior to registration.

Rhythm and Movement, a class for 4- and 5-year-olds, offers pre-dance instruction including exercises in balance, movement, rhythm, coordination, and creativity. Children begin to develop locomotor skills, such as skipping and galloping, and learn the structure of a dance class. Stories and props are used to engage young children. Listening skills are encouraged. Students must be 4 years old or have completed a year of Creative Dance.

Children’s Dance

Pre-Ballet is a primary course which allows 5-7 year-olds the opportunity to progress into any form of dance. Rudimentary ballet positions, as well as basic ballet vocabulary, are taught along with floor exercises, simple steps, and correct posture. A greater emphasis on musicality and rhythm is encouraged. Five-year-olds must have studied one year of Rhythm & Movement at FSPA or be evaluated and recommended for Pre-Ballet by an FSPA instructor.

Introduction to Ballet is for students ages 6-8 and begins a wider study of ballet vocabulary with a greater focus on correct posture and placement. The importance of concentration, self-control, and discipline are emphasized and necessary for the progression to Ballet I. Basic steps are performed in the center, across the floor, and in simple pathways. Students must have completed Rhythm & Movement and Pre-Ballet programs at FSPA or be evaluated for Introduction to Ballet by an FSPA instructor.

For more information on Children’s Dance at FSPA, call 508-528-8668 or stop by the school located at 38 Main St. in Franklin, MA.