Pointe Classes
Experience the Magic
Pointe dance is a type of ballet that is performed on the tips of the toes and is known for for being technically challenging and being accompanied by classical music. In this class, students will build upon a strong ballet foundation and learn techniques such as balances, turns, and pirouettes.Â
Advanced Pointe
High School
Beginner Pointe Classes
Grades K-5
Pointe classes at the Dancenter are traditional Russian-basis dance classes for dancers age 10 and over, and having at least 2 years of ballet training. Each dancer must be evaluated before she may begin Pointe. We offer graded levels of Pointe based on the dancers age, physical development and training. As the students become stronger more complicated center floor activities are given. At the advanced level, Pointe class is an intensive session in which excerpts from female variations from classical repertoire are studied, and virtuosity is mastered.
Beginning Pointe is designed to first strengthen a dancer’s legs, feet, ankles, and core in preparation for their future strength in and mastery of the discipline. A transition to dancing on pointe shoes will follow when dancers, and their bodies, have successfully mastered basic core, foot, and ankle drills. When dancers are ready to wear their shoes, the Dancenter will assist in scheduling pointe shoe fittings for them. Dancers will learn how to fit, wear, sew, and care for their shoes. Dancers will then start on pointe by learning barre and center exercises, while continuing with their strengthening drills.
Pre-Reqs: Dancer is at least 10 years old at the start of the seasonal classes in August. Dancer has completed 2 years of XL-Ballet or equivalent training. Dancer, to enroll in Pointe, must also enroll in an approved Ballet class and the dancer will be approved for Pointe by an instructor.
Available Classes
Grades K-5
- Beginner Pointe
- Combined with a Ballet Class
XL Pointe Classes
Grades 5-12
Most dancers look forward to dancing en pointe when they are older. The effect is simply beautiful, the essence of grace and poise. If you are one of these dancers, the Dancenter strives to help you reach your goals by providing curriculum that emphasizes safety as well as beauty.Â
Experience of ballet is essential. You need to be able to do all the steps on demi pointe before you can go onto full pointe. Your teacher can advise you if you are keen to learn. We also require continuing your ballet classes while you train in pointe to expand your confidence, strength, knowledge, skill, and vocabulary.Â
Confidence and strength are key. To be able to support yourself en pointe, you need strong feet and ankles, in particular the small group of muscles in the ball of you feet. The idea is that you can rise in demi pointe and then use the strength in your feet, ankles, and toes to pull you up on to full pointe, balancing your toes inside the shoe. Additionally, having a strong core is essential for pointe. Don’t despair if you are not quite ready. Progressing in ballet takes time so be patient with yourself. It is better to ensure you are fully ready to prevent any injuries.
Pre-Reqs: Dancer is at least 10 years old at the start of the seasonal classes in August. Dancer has completed 2 years of XL-Ballet or equivalent training. Dancer, to enroll in Pointe, must also enroll in an approved Ballet class and the dancer will be approved for Pointe by an instructor.
Available Classes
Grades 5-12
- Pointe 1
