Our philosophy has been that Ballet be taken as a foundation for all forms
of dance, after which other forms may be added as children grow and
develop. Tap is usually added around age 6-7. Jazz is added to ballet
and tap around age 8-9. Hawaiian/Polynesian dance may be added
around age 9-10. As children continue classes through the years, their
ability to execute steps improves, which is what we call dance technique.
This is what makes them look like a dancer!
To further their dance education we take students to dance
workshops throughout the year. The Dance Masters of Wisconsin
annually holds a workshop in Madison in the fall along with others during
the year in other parts of Wisconsin. The Chicago National Association of
Dance Masters hold a fall workshop at the Sheraton Northwest Chicago in
Arlington Heights, Illinois and a 3 day workshop for students in the
summer. Requirements for students to attend are that they be at least 9
or 10 years old and have had at least 3 years of experience in Ballet,
Tap, and 2 years in Jazz.
In the spring, certain classes will be asked if they would like to
participate in the Statewide Dance Competition in Madison. The newly
created dance team under the direction of Erin Carlin has competed in
the Statewide Dance Competition and Showstopper Competition along
with the CNADM summer student competition. Junior Dance team
auditions will be held again the end August.
All students are given the opportunity to perform in the holiday
shows at the area nursing homes. In the past we have performed at the
Oregon Manor, Middleton Village and St. Mary’s Healthcare Center at
Christmas time. We also have performed at the Hometown Village
Assisted Living in Verona for Halloween. Students have performed at
various summer festivals such as Festa Italia, Fitchburg Days, Verona
Hometown Days, Oregon Summerfest, Kids Expo, Vilas Zoo Benefit,
Custard Fest in Oregon, along with being in the Verona and Oregon
parades.
We end our year of learning with a full stage production held at the
Oregon High School Performing Arts Center in May. This year will be our
31st Anniversary Show! Students love to show parents, relatives and
friends what they have learned all year. Dance and performing give
students, young and old, a sense of accomplishment, self confidence,
poise and good self esteem in a non-competitive atmosphere.