Dance Forms
Ballet
At MHSB, every student is encouraged to take Ballet, as it is the foundation of many other dance forms. The Martha Hicks School of Ballet teaches the Cecchetti method of ballet. Creativity continues to be encouraged as a sense of presentation and artistry is developed. Emphasis is placed on technical aspects including posture, coordination and muscular awareness. Every other year MHSB prepares eligible students for ballet exams in the Cecchetti syllabus.
Hip Hop
Over the years, Hip-Hop has evolved into many different adaptations, utilizing commercial choreography, and can be danced to a wide range of current music. Hip Hop promotes the use of coordination and strength, as well as articulation of the body. This dance style offers a fun and energetic environment for dancers to learn and grow.
Tap
Tap promotes rhythm and coordination, while stimulating creativity in a classroom environment. Tap has proven to be enticing for young children, as well as dancers with no experience. Tap allows students to explore musicality and movement while building on new skills acquired throughout the term.
Musical Theatre
Musical theatre brings broadway to the studio. This lively dance style focuses on the value of performance within the art of dance. Students learn how to combine character performance with technical dance skills in an environment that encourages self expression. Dancers will learn combinations to music from both modern and classical musicals and even have the opportunity to act and emote on stage.
Jazz
The MHSB Jazz program was developed in 1995 and has proved tremendously popular. The MHSB Jazz program begins at the age of 5. The pace is upbeat and the atmosphere is fun, as children learn steps and combinations to current music. Students will learn technical skills including jumps and turns. Additionally, Jazz technique is a great class for students taking other dance forms such as Ballet or Contemporary.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance offers a wide range of skills and techniques to students. This dance forms promotes freedom of movement, and improvisation. Contemporary offers the opportunity for dancers to explore artistry and creativity. Contemporary dance is an excellent dance form for students enrolled in jazz or ballet.
Acro
This unique dance form challenges dancers through a combination of dance and gymnastic disciplines. Acro teaches strength and flexibility, while improving on foundational dance skills. From summersaults to aerials, the MHSB Acro program has something to offer for every dancer.
Pointe
At the age of 12, ballet students at MHSB are considered for pointe work. This program begins with a pre-pointe class, focusing strengthening the muscles of the feet and legs. The safety of our dancers is of the utmost importance, our highly trained faculty ensures dancers are ready for pointe work through an assessment of skill level and strength.