Ages: 5 years and up
Ballet developed from a form of dance performed in royal courts in the 15th century. It has evolved over the years and now takes many forms that may differ in technique, musicality, fluidity, and line of the body. Ballet is truly the foundation of all dance forms developing the fundamentals of dance through control, poise, precision, fluency and grace. As it strengthens and tones young bodies, it builds lifetime disciplines, develops greater concentration and challenges creativity while imparting a confidence and poise that will grow with each student.
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus is taught at BSD and all students are expected to take part in RAD exams when they meet the exam criteria. The RAD syllabus is an internationally recognized ballet program that allows children to progress through a carefully planned syllabus that expands their dance knowledge and ability over a period of approximately 10-15 years.
The progression is separated into the graded and vocational levels. Ballet students in grades one through eight are also required to take the character component of the RAD syllabus. Students who enter the RAD Vocational program (in Grades 4 or 5) will have a Pointe component. The RAD syllabus begins with the Pre-Ballet, Primary Ballet and continues through to Advanced 2. The syllabus from Grade 4 and up requires students to take two classes per week. Students do not necessarily progress one level per year as some of the levels require 18 months to two years to complete.
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