VOCATIONAL PROGRAM

Enhance your dance training and performance with our leading edge Vocational Dance Program.

Our Vocational program strives to enhance each individual dancer's training and performance from pre-intermediate Ballet through pre-professional. Weekly Ballet classes include both Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (I.S.T.D.) and Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) methods of Ballet training. Students who wish to learn classical repertoire and enhance their pointe work are encouraged to participate in our Variations class, which provides dancers a glimpse into the professional world of Ballet. Our Modern (and Contemporary) classes are a key component of the Vocational Program. Students explore foundational Modern and Contemporary dance techniques including: Limón, Horton, Graham and Release. As well, Vocational students are introduced to improvisation, choreography methods and mentorship, modern dance history and human anatomy.

Research has repeatedly shown that dance training alone does not provide the required strength, power, speed and endurance necessary for dancers. Injuries are reduced and performance increases when dancers engage in regular strength/resistance training. At Crossings we offer a cutting edge, dance specific Strength & Conditioning class in order for our students to establish a foundation of strength and endurance on which to further build technique and artistry. This class is available for dancers in our Child and Youth Program and Vocational Program.

All Full-Year students will perform in the Year End Recital and Sessional students will perform in the Sessional Showcase.

REGISTRATION FOR 2024-25 CLASSES IS NOW OPEN

2024-25 CLASS SCHEDULE

VOCATIONAL DANCE ATTIRE REQUIREMENTS

  • VOCATIONAL BALLET

    I.S.T.D. & R.A.D. (Intermediate to Preprofessional)

    Our comprehensive program uses both the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (I.S.T.D.) and the Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) methods of Ballet training to provide the student with a solid understanding of classical technique. Ballet exams are offered for students who are deemed ready by their instructor, and additional classes are required in preparation for examinations.

    Note:

    To register for any Vocational level Ballet class, students will automatically be enrolled in all classes for their allotted level.

  • VOCATIONAL MODERN & CONTEMPORARY

    I.S.T.D. Modern (Limon and Horton based) & Contemporary

    Aspects of Modern dance include use of the torso, space, weight and the development of a strong grounded sense of movement. Students will explore the many styles of Modern dance (Limon, Horton, Graham and Release) as well as Contemporary dance techniques and exploration.

    *A base of ballet technique is required. Vocational level Modern classes run twice a week.

    Note:

    Ballet is a co-requisite for all Vocational level Modern classes.

    To register for any Vocational level Modern class, students must be enrolled in Ballet and will automatically be enrolled in all Modern classes for their allotted level.

  • VOCATIONAL CONTEMPORARY ACRO

    Vocational Contemporary Acro is designed to condition and equip dancers for the athletic and acrobatic demands of current contemporary trends. Drawing from the Acrobatic Arts syllabus, as well as principles from gymnastics, Capeoria, and the Ido Portal method, dancers will work through specified strength and flexibility training, floor work, hand-balancing and inversions, tumbling integrations, bridge work and limbering, improvisational structures, and partner work.

    *Skills will be broken down into variations appropriate to each individual's current ability.

    Note:

    Enrolment in the full Vocational program (Ballet & Modern) is a co-requisite for this class.

  • PRE-POINTE, POINTE & VARIATIONS

    **Required for all Ballet students Inter 2 and up.

    Pre-Pointe begins at our Inter 2 Ballet level. This class emphasis strengthening the core, developing center of balance, reinforcing correct foot and ankle positioning for a safe and successful transition to pointe work.

    Students progress to Pointe with Crossings faculty and medical professionals approval.

    Variations class is for Vocational 4 dancers who wish to learn classical repertoire and enhance their pointe work. It provides dancers with a glimpse into the professional world of Ballet.

    *Vocational 3/4 Ballet is a co-requisite for Variations class.

2024-25 REGISTRATION