CLASSICAL BALLET
THSPA Ballet Department
Proud advocates of the Royal Academy of Dance Ballet programme.
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) has over 13,000 members spread across 83 countries, the RAD is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organisations in the world. The RAD offers an internationally recognised portfolio of examinations and assessments designed to encourage, motivate and reward students of all ages and abilities, outlining a progressive structure for learning and achievement.
The graded syllabi provides a broad practical dance education developing the technical, musical and performance skills of the student. All classes will incorporate Classical Ballet with the addition of Character Dance for Grades 1-5.
The vocational grades build on the elements covered in the Graded syllabus, focusing on the performance of Ballet to an advanced standard.
Class placements are at teaching staff's discretion and is based on age and ability of the student. Assessments of students will take place during their first few weeks to advise as to what class they are most suited to.
Older (teenage), less experienced students may enter at Grade 6 level.
We offer the opportunity for students to participate in their respective RAD Examinations or Class Awards for a participation certificate.
Students will be invited to sit for examinations or performance assessments at the discretion of Thspa’s teaching staff. Please note there are additional costs involved to participate in the exams (these costs cover the extra workshop, pianist and exam entry fee).
Examination Students will need to do a minimum of 2 ballet classes each week plus a compulsory weekend dress rehearsal prior to the exam. We believe in fairness to the students they should feel confident and be fully prepared in order to sit for examinations. We only consider students who display a good attitude, showing a full commitment in learning the syllabus, improving technique and attending regularly.
Private lessons are available.
CLASSES OFFERED - ROYAL ACADEMY OF DANCE SYLLABUS
Preparatory Ballet
Pre Primary From age 3 years. Introduction to Classical Ballet, - No Examinations
Primary Ballet - Ages 5 - 6 Continuing to build on the fundamentals of ballet and movement.
Junior Ballet School
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
SENIOR BALLET SCHOOL
Intermediate Foundation - The RAD Set syllabus Intermediate Foundation is the 1st level of Vocational exams. It focuses on technique and style, including 2 pointe exercises at teh barre and 1 in the centre for females. An intermediate level of ballet technique is required - however completion of previous RAD examinations is not. Doing the exam is not compulsory, you can join the class and choose not to do the exam.
Intermediate Foundation Beginner Pointe - A class for dancers with experience in ballet but not necessarily in pointework. The class teaches the basics of pointework focusing on strengthening the feet, correct technique and injury prevention. If you have not done pointe before you will need to email Thspa to arrange a private lesson to determine whether you can start pointework.
Intermediate Ballet - The RAD set syllabus Intermediate is the 2nd level of Vocational exams. It focuses on technique and style, including 4 pointe exercises at the barre and 3 in the centre for females. An intermediate level of ballet technique is required - however previous completion of previous RAD examinations is not. Exam entry is at the discretion on the teacher, doing the exam is not compulsory, so you can join the class and choose not to do the exam.
Advanced Foundation - The RAD set syllabus Advanced Foundation is the 3rd level of Vocational exams.
Advanced 1 Ballet & Pointe- The RAD set syllabus for Advanced 1 is the 4th level of 5 Vocational exams. A high level of ballet technique is required
Senior Ballet Troupe - An invitation class open to Intermediate Foundation and above students.
Junior Ballet Troupe - Grades 1-4 invitational class.
Ladies Ballet - All ages and stages - please contact Joady Chambers direct 0439 553144 for class details.
All students are invited to be involved in THSPA’s Annual concert.
UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS- ALL AVAILABLE FROM THE THSPA DANCE SHOP
Pre Primary/ Primary: Sleeveless white leotard, white crossover (winter); pink ballet tights or pink ballet socks (in Summer) ; pink ballet shoes.
Grades 1-3: White leotard; white crossover; pink ballet tights; pink ballet shoes. Black character skirt with specified ribbons; Black character shoes.
Grade 4 - 6: Black leotard; black crossover; pink tights; pink ballet shoes with ribbons. Black character skirt with specified ribbons; Black character shoes.
InterFoundation and above: Black leotard; black crossover; pink ballet shoes with ribbons; tights; Demi-Pointes from intermediate. Black or pink leg warmer recommended in cooler weather.
Male (All Grades): Black ballet length shorts/tights; white leotard or t-shirt; white ballet shoes and socks.
Pointe Shoes: We recommend Gaynor Minden Pointe Shoes for our dancers. Contact info@moretothepointe.com.au or 0414 510242 or www.moretothepointe.com.au for further details.
