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Ages 7-18: Recreational Program Teens Adults Accelerated Company Program Boys, Men, & Workshops Zumba |
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| Ages 3-6 |
The Genesis Program is the Footsteps Family Dance Center’s introduction to dance for students ages 3-6. The
overall mission of the Genesis Program is to provide youngsters with a solid beginning to their dance training and
to generate in them a love for the magical world of dance.
Designed with children’s cognitive abilities and motor development in mind, the Genesis Program presents basic
dance steps, proper terminology, major dance concepts, and anatomy in a fun, positive class setting. In addition,
students learn social skills such as taking turns, following directions, clapping for classmates' achievements, and
general self-control that will prepare them for life as well as for more serious dance study. Accomplishments are
rewarded to reinforce good manners and proper dance technique.
Not only do children learn how to dance in the Genesis Program, but they also learn about dance with lessons in
dance history, classical ballet stories, videos of professional dance companies, etc. Classes consist of warm-up
exercises that teach students basic ballet or tap or hip hop vocabulary, traveling steps across the floor, and
various movement games; classwork culminates in the Spring Concert in June, when Genesis dancers perform
onstage for their adoring fans!
We offer classes for 3-year-olds (Genesis 3), 4 to early-5-year-olds (Genesis 4/5), and 5 1/2 to 6-year-olds
(Genesis 5/6). Classes for 3-year-olds are 30 minutes, once a week, and are ballet-based. For our 4 to early-5's,
we offer a combo class of ballet & tap for 60 minutes once a week, with 30 minutes devoted to each dance form.
For our 5 1/2 to 6 year olds, we offer a choice of combo classes: ballet/tap, or ballet/hip hop for 60 minutes once
a week. All Genesis students will be placed in classes appropriate for the age they are on October 1. Our staff
appreciates it if our youngest dancers are potty-trained before signing up for dance classes!
Dress code is a dance dress or leotard with matching skirt (Genesis 3 wears pink, Genesis 4/5 wears lavender, &
Genesis 5/6 wears light blue), white ankle socks, and either pink leather ballet shoes, black patent leather tap
shoes with tap buttons (no ribbons!), or white converse-style sneakers for hip hop.
For the Spring Concert at the end of the season, our Genesis 3 dancers perform 1 dance and wear 1 costume.
They will be scheduled to perform in the earliest of our 3 shows.
Our Genesis 4/5 and 5/6 dancers perform 2 dances in the Spring Concert; both dances will be scheduled in the
same show. Costumes for Genesis dances consist of a base leotard with different pieces for each dance, for
instance, a tutu and tiara for ballet, then switch to a fringe skirt and fedora for tap. These are called "2-in-1"
costumes, and they are an economical way to make 2 dances special for one reasonable price!
Graduates of Genesis 5/6 should move on to the Intro Seminar in ballet, jazz, hip hop, or tap before joining our
Beginner Levels.
overall mission of the Genesis Program is to provide youngsters with a solid beginning to their dance training and
to generate in them a love for the magical world of dance.
Designed with children’s cognitive abilities and motor development in mind, the Genesis Program presents basic
dance steps, proper terminology, major dance concepts, and anatomy in a fun, positive class setting. In addition,
students learn social skills such as taking turns, following directions, clapping for classmates' achievements, and
general self-control that will prepare them for life as well as for more serious dance study. Accomplishments are
rewarded to reinforce good manners and proper dance technique.
Not only do children learn how to dance in the Genesis Program, but they also learn about dance with lessons in
dance history, classical ballet stories, videos of professional dance companies, etc. Classes consist of warm-up
exercises that teach students basic ballet or tap or hip hop vocabulary, traveling steps across the floor, and
various movement games; classwork culminates in the Spring Concert in June, when Genesis dancers perform
onstage for their adoring fans!
We offer classes for 3-year-olds (Genesis 3), 4 to early-5-year-olds (Genesis 4/5), and 5 1/2 to 6-year-olds
(Genesis 5/6). Classes for 3-year-olds are 30 minutes, once a week, and are ballet-based. For our 4 to early-5's,
we offer a combo class of ballet & tap for 60 minutes once a week, with 30 minutes devoted to each dance form.
For our 5 1/2 to 6 year olds, we offer a choice of combo classes: ballet/tap, or ballet/hip hop for 60 minutes once
a week. All Genesis students will be placed in classes appropriate for the age they are on October 1. Our staff
appreciates it if our youngest dancers are potty-trained before signing up for dance classes!
Dress code is a dance dress or leotard with matching skirt (Genesis 3 wears pink, Genesis 4/5 wears lavender, &
Genesis 5/6 wears light blue), white ankle socks, and either pink leather ballet shoes, black patent leather tap
shoes with tap buttons (no ribbons!), or white converse-style sneakers for hip hop.
For the Spring Concert at the end of the season, our Genesis 3 dancers perform 1 dance and wear 1 costume.
They will be scheduled to perform in the earliest of our 3 shows.
Our Genesis 4/5 and 5/6 dancers perform 2 dances in the Spring Concert; both dances will be scheduled in the
same show. Costumes for Genesis dances consist of a base leotard with different pieces for each dance, for
instance, a tutu and tiara for ballet, then switch to a fringe skirt and fedora for tap. These are called "2-in-1"
costumes, and they are an economical way to make 2 dances special for one reasonable price!
Graduates of Genesis 5/6 should move on to the Intro Seminar in ballet, jazz, hip hop, or tap before joining our
Beginner Levels.
| Ages 7-18 |
At the Footsteps Family Dance Center, we offer ballet, jazz, hip hop, and tap in 3 skill levels: Beginner,
Intermediate, and Advanced. Because it make take a few years of study for students to master the basic dance
skills that are taught in the Beginner levels, we offer Introductory Seminars to prepare students from scratch who
are new to dance or to a particular dance form for entrance into Beginner classes.
Introductory Seminars last for 4 weeks. They are offered on an as-needed basis. Each class is 45 minutes in
length, once a week. Students may choose from ballet, jazz, hip hop, or tap; tuition for Seminars follows the
Recreational Tuition Chart. The registration fee and first month’s tuition must be paid, and all enrollment
paperwork filled out, before students are guaranteed a place in Seminar classes. Students ages 7 and up are all
welcome to sign up for Introductory Seminars. We recommend that 6-year-old new students join our Genesis pre-
dance program, even if they have previous dance experience elsewhere, and save more serious study for next
season.
When signing up for an Introductory Seminar, new students will also sign up for the Beginner class into which they
will transfer upon completing the Introductory Seminar. After the 4-week Seminar is over, they attend their
Beginner class for the rest of the year. Beginner classes are divided into age groups; Intro Seminars are mixed in
ages.
We offer convenient 3-week or 1-week options for Intro Seminars over the summer; please see our Summer page
for details. All Intro Seminars after Sept 1 last 4 weeks.
Intermediate, and Advanced. Because it make take a few years of study for students to master the basic dance
skills that are taught in the Beginner levels, we offer Introductory Seminars to prepare students from scratch who
are new to dance or to a particular dance form for entrance into Beginner classes.
Introductory Seminars last for 4 weeks. They are offered on an as-needed basis. Each class is 45 minutes in
length, once a week. Students may choose from ballet, jazz, hip hop, or tap; tuition for Seminars follows the
Recreational Tuition Chart. The registration fee and first month’s tuition must be paid, and all enrollment
paperwork filled out, before students are guaranteed a place in Seminar classes. Students ages 7 and up are all
welcome to sign up for Introductory Seminars. We recommend that 6-year-old new students join our Genesis pre-
dance program, even if they have previous dance experience elsewhere, and save more serious study for next
season.
When signing up for an Introductory Seminar, new students will also sign up for the Beginner class into which they
will transfer upon completing the Introductory Seminar. After the 4-week Seminar is over, they attend their
Beginner class for the rest of the year. Beginner classes are divided into age groups; Intro Seminars are mixed in
ages.
We offer convenient 3-week or 1-week options for Intro Seminars over the summer; please see our Summer page
for details. All Intro Seminars after Sept 1 last 4 weeks.
| Adults |
| Boys, Men, & Workshops |
| Genesis Program |
| Introductory Seminars |
| Ballet Program |
Footsteps’ Ballet Program is based on the Cecchetti (Italian) method of ballet, although the Cecchetti curriculum is
not used exclusively. Cecchetti terminology is the most widely used in America today, so students who study ballet
at Footsteps will be well-prepared to flourish in dance anywhere in the country, as well as abroad.
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program offers students comprehensive training in classical and
contemporary styles of ballet in introductory through advanced levels. The overall mission of the Ballet Program is
to provide dancers ages 7-18 with pre-professional-quality training in a fun, magical, nurturing environment.
Because ballet is foundational to success in jazz, tap, lyrical, praise, and other traditional dance forms, attention to
detail is crucial. Hence, the FFDC Ballet Program is divided into 5 levels: Beginner, Beginner/Intermediate,
Intermediate, Intermediate/Advanced, and Advanced. A syllabus has been devised for each level, building on
technique developed in prior levels. Students will be informed of required steps and the proper way to perform
them; only when they demonstrate mastery over the steps, concepts, and terminology for their level will they be
promoted to the next. Two to four years in a level can be expected, minimum. Rewards and incentives will be
offered to motivate dancers in the meantime as they progress through the syllabus.
Beginners are divided into age groups for the social comfort of the dancers. Age groups for beginners are 7-9, 10-
12, and 13+; ages are mixed in Intermediate and Advanced levels of ballet.
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program is our crowning glory and the pearl hidden inside every
other dance form we teach. For this reason, our ballet levels are named after jewels:
Ballet Ruby: Beginner level
One or two 45-minute classes per week
Black or burgundy leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Amber: Beginner/Intermediate level
One or two 45-minute classes per week
Black or yellow leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Emerald: Intermediate level
Two 60-minute classes per week strongly recommended; two per week required if taking pointe or company
Black or hunter green leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Sapphire: Intermediate/Advanced level
Two 60-minute classes per week strongly recommended; two per week required if taking pointe or company
Black or royal blue leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Onyx: Advanced level
One Onyx and one Sapphire class per week required
Black leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Students who participate in the Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program learn many life-skills through
their dance experience. Posture, poise, and confidence are but a few! Self-discipline, attention to detail, problem-
solving skills, the ability to learn quickly and retain information, and independent thinking are benefits that former
dancers carry into a variety of careers. There is a place for both the aspiring professional and the recreational
dancer in FFDC’s Ballet Program.
not used exclusively. Cecchetti terminology is the most widely used in America today, so students who study ballet
at Footsteps will be well-prepared to flourish in dance anywhere in the country, as well as abroad.
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program offers students comprehensive training in classical and
contemporary styles of ballet in introductory through advanced levels. The overall mission of the Ballet Program is
to provide dancers ages 7-18 with pre-professional-quality training in a fun, magical, nurturing environment.
Because ballet is foundational to success in jazz, tap, lyrical, praise, and other traditional dance forms, attention to
detail is crucial. Hence, the FFDC Ballet Program is divided into 5 levels: Beginner, Beginner/Intermediate,
Intermediate, Intermediate/Advanced, and Advanced. A syllabus has been devised for each level, building on
technique developed in prior levels. Students will be informed of required steps and the proper way to perform
them; only when they demonstrate mastery over the steps, concepts, and terminology for their level will they be
promoted to the next. Two to four years in a level can be expected, minimum. Rewards and incentives will be
offered to motivate dancers in the meantime as they progress through the syllabus.
Beginners are divided into age groups for the social comfort of the dancers. Age groups for beginners are 7-9, 10-
12, and 13+; ages are mixed in Intermediate and Advanced levels of ballet.
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program is our crowning glory and the pearl hidden inside every
other dance form we teach. For this reason, our ballet levels are named after jewels:
Ballet Ruby: Beginner level
One or two 45-minute classes per week
Black or burgundy leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Amber: Beginner/Intermediate level
One or two 45-minute classes per week
Black or yellow leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Emerald: Intermediate level
Two 60-minute classes per week strongly recommended; two per week required if taking pointe or company
Black or hunter green leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Sapphire: Intermediate/Advanced level
Two 60-minute classes per week strongly recommended; two per week required if taking pointe or company
Black or royal blue leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Ballet Onyx: Advanced level
One Onyx and one Sapphire class per week required
Black leotard, pink tights, pink leather ballet shoes, white hip belt, hair in a secure bun
Students who participate in the Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Ballet Program learn many life-skills through
their dance experience. Posture, poise, and confidence are but a few! Self-discipline, attention to detail, problem-
solving skills, the ability to learn quickly and retain information, and independent thinking are benefits that former
dancers carry into a variety of careers. There is a place for both the aspiring professional and the recreational
dancer in FFDC’s Ballet Program.
| Pointe Program |
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Pointe Program is designed to enable dancers with the desire, physical
structure, strength, and technique to explore the art of dancing on pointe. Pointe, while a sub-category of ballet,
is quite different from regular ballet in “flats”: It requires even greater skill and strength, has its own vocabulary
and skills, and deserves separate study. It is not for everyone, and not everyone is expected to enjoy it or even
try it.
Dancing on pointe can be dangerous to dancers who are not prepared. No one under the age of 11 will be
considered for pointe due to physical development. Dancers must have studied ballet for a minimum of 2 years
and demonstrate a strong grasp on ballet vocabulary and concepts. In addition, eligible, interested dancers are
required to pass an evaluation by Footsteps’ director, Miss Jennifer, whose trained professional eye can
ascertain muscle development and strength, as well as physical conditions which may be aggravated by pointe
dancing.
The Pointe Program is set up in 4 levels: Introductory, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Continuing the
theme started in the Ballet Program, pointe classes are also named after jewels:
Pearl Pointe: Introductory level
Topaz Pointe: Beginner level
Diamond Pointe: Intermediate/Advanced level
Each pointe level meets twice a week. Pearl dancers take 2 30-minute technique classes; the upper levels take 1
45-minute technique class and one 30-minute variations class; in variations, dancers learn both classical and
contemporary pointe repertoire.
FFDC's Pearl pointerinas do not perform in the Spring Concert on pointe their first year in pointe shoes. This
frees them to develop at their own pace in the Introductory level. This also enables our staff to invite dancers
onto pointe at any time throughout the dance year, keeping dancers motivated to keep improving in their ballet
classes.
Ballerinas in FFDC’s Pointe Program are required to take ballet twice a week.
Footsteps’ upper level pointe dancers will perform in the Spring Concert in both their ballet classes and their
pointe class. A separate costume for pointe should be expected.
For our pointe ballerinas who can’t get enough of the spotlight, Footsteps offers Pointe Company. Pointe
Company is an addendum to the Footsteps Dance Theater (FDT) performing and competition company; Pointe
Company dancers do not need to be in the regular FDT company. Acceptance into Pointe Company is by
audition only. Auditions are open to Topaz, Amethyst, and Diamond pointe dancers. Pointe Company dancers
are required to take 2 ballet, 2 pointe, and 1 Pointe Company rehearsal classes per week. Please refer to our
FDT Company page for more about Company involvement.
structure, strength, and technique to explore the art of dancing on pointe. Pointe, while a sub-category of ballet,
is quite different from regular ballet in “flats”: It requires even greater skill and strength, has its own vocabulary
and skills, and deserves separate study. It is not for everyone, and not everyone is expected to enjoy it or even
try it.
Dancing on pointe can be dangerous to dancers who are not prepared. No one under the age of 11 will be
considered for pointe due to physical development. Dancers must have studied ballet for a minimum of 2 years
and demonstrate a strong grasp on ballet vocabulary and concepts. In addition, eligible, interested dancers are
required to pass an evaluation by Footsteps’ director, Miss Jennifer, whose trained professional eye can
ascertain muscle development and strength, as well as physical conditions which may be aggravated by pointe
dancing.
The Pointe Program is set up in 4 levels: Introductory, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Continuing the
theme started in the Ballet Program, pointe classes are also named after jewels:
Pearl Pointe: Introductory level
Topaz Pointe: Beginner level
Diamond Pointe: Intermediate/Advanced level
Each pointe level meets twice a week. Pearl dancers take 2 30-minute technique classes; the upper levels take 1
45-minute technique class and one 30-minute variations class; in variations, dancers learn both classical and
contemporary pointe repertoire.
FFDC's Pearl pointerinas do not perform in the Spring Concert on pointe their first year in pointe shoes. This
frees them to develop at their own pace in the Introductory level. This also enables our staff to invite dancers
onto pointe at any time throughout the dance year, keeping dancers motivated to keep improving in their ballet
classes.
Ballerinas in FFDC’s Pointe Program are required to take ballet twice a week.
Footsteps’ upper level pointe dancers will perform in the Spring Concert in both their ballet classes and their
pointe class. A separate costume for pointe should be expected.
For our pointe ballerinas who can’t get enough of the spotlight, Footsteps offers Pointe Company. Pointe
Company is an addendum to the Footsteps Dance Theater (FDT) performing and competition company; Pointe
Company dancers do not need to be in the regular FDT company. Acceptance into Pointe Company is by
audition only. Auditions are open to Topaz, Amethyst, and Diamond pointe dancers. Pointe Company dancers
are required to take 2 ballet, 2 pointe, and 1 Pointe Company rehearsal classes per week. Please refer to our
FDT Company page for more about Company involvement.
| Jazz Program |
The Footsteps Family Dance Center offers students ages 7-18 the opportunity to get funky and flashy in our
popular Jazz Program. Through our Jazz Program we aim to expose students to classical as well as trendy styles
of jazz in an encouraging, fun, cut-loose-and-boogie atmosphere.
Footsteps’ Jazz Program is divided into 3 levels: Beginner, Tween, and Intermediate. Beginners are sub-divided
into 2 age groups: 7-9 and 10-12, with one of our 10-12 classes also opened up to teenagers; our youngest jazz
dancers must be 7 by October 1, or be graduates of our Genesis 5/6 Ballet Program. Tween
(Beginner/Intermediate) and Intermediate levels mix all ages.
In the Beginner Level, students begin to learn jazz technique to fun, current dance music under high-energy, you-
can-do-it instruction.
Students who have mastered the basics increase their difficulty level in the Tween and Intermediate classes.
Tweens continue to build on the basics with more complex steps and rhythms, and Intermediates focus more on
turns, flexibility, strength, and jumps, all the while jazzing it up with style and contagious energy.
Advanced jazz dancers push the envelope in adding complex turns, hyper-flexibility, sophisticated jumps and
floorwork, and precision, strength, and artistry. At this time, all of our advanced jazz dancers are involved in the
Footsteps Dance Theater Company Program. For information on this program, check out our "FDT Company"
page.
Because the Footsteps jazz curriculum builds progressively, it is essential that students master the skills in their
current level before being promoted to the next. Since it may take years of study to accomplish this, rewards and
incentives are offered to motivate students within their present level.
As students advance through FFDC’s Jazz Program, skills become more and more reliant upon a ballet
foundation. For this reason, Intermediate jazz dancers are strongly urged to take ballet at least once per week;
Advanced jazz dancers are required to take ballet twice a week minimum.
Dress code for jazz is any solid color leotard, suntan stirrup tights or black jazz pants, tan split-sole slip-on jazz
shoes, with hair secured back in a ponytail.
popular Jazz Program. Through our Jazz Program we aim to expose students to classical as well as trendy styles
of jazz in an encouraging, fun, cut-loose-and-boogie atmosphere.
Footsteps’ Jazz Program is divided into 3 levels: Beginner, Tween, and Intermediate. Beginners are sub-divided
into 2 age groups: 7-9 and 10-12, with one of our 10-12 classes also opened up to teenagers; our youngest jazz
dancers must be 7 by October 1, or be graduates of our Genesis 5/6 Ballet Program. Tween
(Beginner/Intermediate) and Intermediate levels mix all ages.
In the Beginner Level, students begin to learn jazz technique to fun, current dance music under high-energy, you-
can-do-it instruction.
Students who have mastered the basics increase their difficulty level in the Tween and Intermediate classes.
Tweens continue to build on the basics with more complex steps and rhythms, and Intermediates focus more on
turns, flexibility, strength, and jumps, all the while jazzing it up with style and contagious energy.
Advanced jazz dancers push the envelope in adding complex turns, hyper-flexibility, sophisticated jumps and
floorwork, and precision, strength, and artistry. At this time, all of our advanced jazz dancers are involved in the
Footsteps Dance Theater Company Program. For information on this program, check out our "FDT Company"
page.
Because the Footsteps jazz curriculum builds progressively, it is essential that students master the skills in their
current level before being promoted to the next. Since it may take years of study to accomplish this, rewards and
incentives are offered to motivate students within their present level.
As students advance through FFDC’s Jazz Program, skills become more and more reliant upon a ballet
foundation. For this reason, Intermediate jazz dancers are strongly urged to take ballet at least once per week;
Advanced jazz dancers are required to take ballet twice a week minimum.
Dress code for jazz is any solid color leotard, suntan stirrup tights or black jazz pants, tan split-sole slip-on jazz
shoes, with hair secured back in a ponytail.
| Tap Program |
The Footsteps Family Dance Center’s Tap Program offers students ages 7-18 a well-rounded education in
traditional and contemporary tap in beginner through advanced levels. Our overall mission is to give students a
solid basic tap foundation flavored with a variety of styles in a fun, high-energy, positive environment.
Footsteps’ Tap Program is divided into 4 levels: Beginner, Tween, Intermediate, & Advanced. The Beginner level
sports two age groups at this time: 7-9 and 10-12; teen beginners are encouraged to take the 10-12 class. The
Tween level is a mix of ages and is for dancers who are between the Beginner and Intermediate skills. The
Intermediate & Advanced levels are also a mix of ages. Many advanced level tappers are part of our Footsteps
Dance Theater Company (see "FDT Company" page for info). Each Beginner, Tween, Intermediate, & Advanced
tap class meets once per week for 45 minutes.
Like other dance forms, tap skills build on each other, so advancement to a higher level depends on the student’s
mastery of steps, technique, and vocabulary in his or her current level. Rewards and incentives are offered to
motivate students as they progress through the syllabus.
The Beginner and Tween levels of the FFDC Tap Program teach the basics of Broadway-style tap. Students learn
classic names of steps like “shuffle off to Buffalo,” “waltz clog,” and “falling off the log.” Videos of famous figures in
the tap world bring the steps to life, and improvisational “jam sessions” encourage dancers to use their
imaginations and overcome shyness. Rhythm games help students develop their musical ear.
The Intermediate level of the FFDC Tap Program builds on the basics. Rhythms become more complex, sounds
are added, speed increases, and the tricks get fancier. For this reason, Intermediate tap dancers are strongly
encouraged to take ballet in addition to their tap; ballet is the foundation upon which many more advanced tap
skills are based. At this level, other styles of tap are introduced, such as funk tap, flash tap, and Irish. Videos,
biographies, improvisation, and games continue to enhance the tap experience.
Advanced tappers are encouraged to try out for membership in our Footsteps Dance Theater Company Program,
where they can be adequately challenged not only by our own competition staff, but by additional learning
opportunities such as tap master classes, workshops, and conventions. Please see our FDT Company page for
more information about this accelerated program.
Dress code for tap is any solid color leotard and either suntan tights or black jazz pants, with tan mary jane style
tap shoes for Beginner & Tween levels, or black slip-on split-sole jazz-tap shoes for Intermediate. Boys should
wear black jazz-taps in all levels.
traditional and contemporary tap in beginner through advanced levels. Our overall mission is to give students a
solid basic tap foundation flavored with a variety of styles in a fun, high-energy, positive environment.
Footsteps’ Tap Program is divided into 4 levels: Beginner, Tween, Intermediate, & Advanced. The Beginner level
sports two age groups at this time: 7-9 and 10-12; teen beginners are encouraged to take the 10-12 class. The
Tween level is a mix of ages and is for dancers who are between the Beginner and Intermediate skills. The
Intermediate & Advanced levels are also a mix of ages. Many advanced level tappers are part of our Footsteps
Dance Theater Company (see "FDT Company" page for info). Each Beginner, Tween, Intermediate, & Advanced
tap class meets once per week for 45 minutes.
Like other dance forms, tap skills build on each other, so advancement to a higher level depends on the student’s
mastery of steps, technique, and vocabulary in his or her current level. Rewards and incentives are offered to
motivate students as they progress through the syllabus.
The Beginner and Tween levels of the FFDC Tap Program teach the basics of Broadway-style tap. Students learn
classic names of steps like “shuffle off to Buffalo,” “waltz clog,” and “falling off the log.” Videos of famous figures in
the tap world bring the steps to life, and improvisational “jam sessions” encourage dancers to use their
imaginations and overcome shyness. Rhythm games help students develop their musical ear.
The Intermediate level of the FFDC Tap Program builds on the basics. Rhythms become more complex, sounds
are added, speed increases, and the tricks get fancier. For this reason, Intermediate tap dancers are strongly
encouraged to take ballet in addition to their tap; ballet is the foundation upon which many more advanced tap
skills are based. At this level, other styles of tap are introduced, such as funk tap, flash tap, and Irish. Videos,
biographies, improvisation, and games continue to enhance the tap experience.
Advanced tappers are encouraged to try out for membership in our Footsteps Dance Theater Company Program,
where they can be adequately challenged not only by our own competition staff, but by additional learning
opportunities such as tap master classes, workshops, and conventions. Please see our FDT Company page for
more information about this accelerated program.
Dress code for tap is any solid color leotard and either suntan tights or black jazz pants, with tan mary jane style
tap shoes for Beginner & Tween levels, or black slip-on split-sole jazz-tap shoes for Intermediate. Boys should
wear black jazz-taps in all levels.
| Lyrical Program |
This season we are offering recreational lyrical classes for dancers ages 10-12 and 13+ who have a minimum of 2
years of ballet training, and who are taking ballet currently as well. Lyrical is a hybrid of ballet technique with jazz
tricks and modern dance dynamics with the objective of interpreting a song's lyrics, so ballet training is an absolute
must for a dancer who desires to learn lyrical properly! Prior or concurrent jazz training is also helpful but is not
required. Lyrical meets for 45 minutes once a week. Level-wise, this class accommodates the needs of the dancers
who enroll--material can be adapted to challenge both newcomers to lyrical as well as intermediate level dancers
with prior lyrical experience.
Advanced lyrical/contemporary dancers should consider auditioning for our Footsteps Dance Theater Company
Program, where they can be adequately challenged not only by our own competition staff, but by additional
learning opportunities such as tap master classes, workshops, and conventions. Please see our FDT Company
page for more information about this accelerated program.
Periodically throughout the dance season, we also bring in guest artists for lyrical master classes, to which
dancers both from within FFDC and the surrounding community are invited. Scroll down to the "Boys, Men, &
Workshops" section or check out our Schedules page for details about workshops.
Dress code for lyrical class is any solid color leotard, suntan stirrup tights and/or black jazz pants, and Dance
Paws. Dance Paws can be purchased through Footsteps--just ask about them in the office! Hair should be
securely back in a bun.
years of ballet training, and who are taking ballet currently as well. Lyrical is a hybrid of ballet technique with jazz
tricks and modern dance dynamics with the objective of interpreting a song's lyrics, so ballet training is an absolute
must for a dancer who desires to learn lyrical properly! Prior or concurrent jazz training is also helpful but is not
required. Lyrical meets for 45 minutes once a week. Level-wise, this class accommodates the needs of the dancers
who enroll--material can be adapted to challenge both newcomers to lyrical as well as intermediate level dancers
with prior lyrical experience.
Advanced lyrical/contemporary dancers should consider auditioning for our Footsteps Dance Theater Company
Program, where they can be adequately challenged not only by our own competition staff, but by additional
learning opportunities such as tap master classes, workshops, and conventions. Please see our FDT Company
page for more information about this accelerated program.
Periodically throughout the dance season, we also bring in guest artists for lyrical master classes, to which
dancers both from within FFDC and the surrounding community are invited. Scroll down to the "Boys, Men, &
Workshops" section or check out our Schedules page for details about workshops.
Dress code for lyrical class is any solid color leotard, suntan stirrup tights and/or black jazz pants, and Dance
Paws. Dance Paws can be purchased through Footsteps--just ask about them in the office! Hair should be
securely back in a bun.
| Hip Hop Program |
The Hip-hop Program at the Footsteps Family Dance Center grants students a positive, energetic, go-for-it
environment in which to express themselves freely through contemporary urban dance moves. While inspired by
dancing seen in today’s music videos, Footsteps avoids the explicit choreography and graphic lyrics that would
make hip-hop inappropriate for family enjoyment.
Footsteps’ Hip-hop Program for girls offers 2 classes based on ages: 7-11 and 12+. In addition, Footsteps offers
a Hip-hop class exclusively for guys. See our "Boys, Men, & Workshops" section below for more. Advanced hip
hoppers should consider our Company Program, where they can be appropriately challenged in either Jr or Sr Hip
Hop Company.
In addition to learning the how-to's of hip hop, dancers are also exposed to the history of hip hop, including the
origins of popping, locking, breakin', etc. as well as both historical and contemporary hip hop masters who have
made the art what it is today.
One of the most popular features of FFDC’s Hip-hop Program is its lack of a dress code! Since expressing their
unique personalities is the main thrust of the program, students are free to wear whatever funky attire they can
dream up—so long as they can move freely, no safety hazards are caused, and all body parts are covered
appropriately (including midriffs). In order to protect our state-of-the-art dance floors, all hip-hop students must
wear black Converse-style sneakers; please refer to the Dress Code on our About Us page for further details.
environment in which to express themselves freely through contemporary urban dance moves. While inspired by
dancing seen in today’s music videos, Footsteps avoids the explicit choreography and graphic lyrics that would
make hip-hop inappropriate for family enjoyment.
Footsteps’ Hip-hop Program for girls offers 2 classes based on ages: 7-11 and 12+. In addition, Footsteps offers
a Hip-hop class exclusively for guys. See our "Boys, Men, & Workshops" section below for more. Advanced hip
hoppers should consider our Company Program, where they can be appropriately challenged in either Jr or Sr Hip
Hop Company.
In addition to learning the how-to's of hip hop, dancers are also exposed to the history of hip hop, including the
origins of popping, locking, breakin', etc. as well as both historical and contemporary hip hop masters who have
made the art what it is today.
One of the most popular features of FFDC’s Hip-hop Program is its lack of a dress code! Since expressing their
unique personalities is the main thrust of the program, students are free to wear whatever funky attire they can
dream up—so long as they can move freely, no safety hazards are caused, and all body parts are covered
appropriately (including midriffs). In order to protect our state-of-the-art dance floors, all hip-hop students must
wear black Converse-style sneakers; please refer to the Dress Code on our About Us page for further details.
At this time, Footsteps does not offer classes for adult dancers. However, if 5+ adults wish to start a class and an
open time slot & available instructor can be found, we are willing to put one on the schedule, so gather your
buddies and give us a call, and we'll see if we can accommodate you! Seriously, call us at 614-883-5599 when
you've got your posse assembled, and we'll go from there.
open time slot & available instructor can be found, we are willing to put one on the schedule, so gather your
buddies and give us a call, and we'll see if we can accommodate you! Seriously, call us at 614-883-5599 when
you've got your posse assembled, and we'll go from there.
The Footsteps Dance Theater is a pre-professional program designed for the purpose of providing promising
dancers ages 7-18 with accelerated training, additional performing opportunities, and occasions to learn from
dance professionals in addition to the Footsteps staff. For further info about the FDT Company Program, please
check out the FDT Company page.
dancers ages 7-18 with accelerated training, additional performing opportunities, and occasions to learn from
dance professionals in addition to the Footsteps staff. For further info about the FDT Company Program, please
check out the FDT Company page.
| Accelerated Company Program |
At this time the Footsteps Family Dance Center offers a Hip-hop class exclusively for boys, ages 7-18. This class
teaches moves similar to those seen in today's boy-band music videos and employs dance drills to enhance
skills that aid in many sports: jumping, nimble footwork, quick turns, changing direction, flexibility, cardio,
strengthbuilding, etc. It is taught by Mr. Kenny Brown, a wonderful role model for masculine dance as well as for
life in general!
For tap, jazz, ballet, and Genesis classes, boys and girls dance together. However, if 4 or more boys of similar
ages wish to take a dudes-only class in any of these dance forms, we will work with their parents to try to
schedule one. Please contact our office if this is your situation!
All guys who perform with our pre-professional Company take a special Men'sTechnique Class in which they
learn ballet & jazz technique, plus skills and conditioning that prepare them for the unique choreography that
male dancers perform in competitive dance. This class meets 45 minutes once a week.
teaches moves similar to those seen in today's boy-band music videos and employs dance drills to enhance
skills that aid in many sports: jumping, nimble footwork, quick turns, changing direction, flexibility, cardio,
strengthbuilding, etc. It is taught by Mr. Kenny Brown, a wonderful role model for masculine dance as well as for
life in general!
For tap, jazz, ballet, and Genesis classes, boys and girls dance together. However, if 4 or more boys of similar
ages wish to take a dudes-only class in any of these dance forms, we will work with their parents to try to
schedule one. Please contact our office if this is your situation!
All guys who perform with our pre-professional Company take a special Men'sTechnique Class in which they
learn ballet & jazz technique, plus skills and conditioning that prepare them for the unique choreography that
male dancers perform in competitive dance. This class meets 45 minutes once a week.
| Boys |
| Workshops |
| Men |
For men we will have open sign-ups for participants in the Father/Daughter/Dude number that is featured in the
annual Spring Concert; details will be available in the FFDC office after January 1. Please refer to our
Performances page for more info on this year's Father/Daughter dance--these are a big hit at the Spring
Concert!
annual Spring Concert; details will be available in the FFDC office after January 1. Please refer to our
Performances page for more info on this year's Father/Daughter dance--these are a big hit at the Spring
Concert!
The Footsteps Family Dance Center brings in guest teachers and speakers on a monthly basis to supplement
our dancers’ education. Guest artists will give seminars on dance and dance-related topics such as modern,
lyrical, choreography, chiropractics, Pilates, partnering, nutrition, costume design, etc., in addition to the
traditional ballet, tap, and jazz.
Recreational, FDT Company, and dancers from the surrounding community are invited to participate in these
fun workshops. The cost is $16 for non-Company dancers, or $11 for Company dancers. We post a sign-up
sheet in the office where dancers who plan to attend can let us know of their plans; non-Footsteps dancers can
call our office to sign up.
To encourage our dancers to be open-minded and well-rounded young artists, we require that FDT Company
dancers participate in 3 of these monthly workshops per year minimum.
To see what interesting workshops we have planned for this season, please visit our "Schedules" page. For
details on this month's workshop, please check out our "News" page.
our dancers’ education. Guest artists will give seminars on dance and dance-related topics such as modern,
lyrical, choreography, chiropractics, Pilates, partnering, nutrition, costume design, etc., in addition to the
traditional ballet, tap, and jazz.
Recreational, FDT Company, and dancers from the surrounding community are invited to participate in these
fun workshops. The cost is $16 for non-Company dancers, or $11 for Company dancers. We post a sign-up
sheet in the office where dancers who plan to attend can let us know of their plans; non-Footsteps dancers can
call our office to sign up.
To encourage our dancers to be open-minded and well-rounded young artists, we require that FDT Company
dancers participate in 3 of these monthly workshops per year minimum.
To see what interesting workshops we have planned for this season, please visit our "Schedules" page. For
details on this month's workshop, please check out our "News" page.
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| Teens |
Similarly, teens who wish to try tap, ballet, jazz, or hip hop should take the 4-week Intro Seminars in those genres,
followed by Tap Beginner 10+, Ballet Ruby 10+, Jazz Beginner 10+, or Hip Hop Beginner 10+.
Many teens are involved in show choirs and school musicals, and/or are "Gleeks" who just love musical-related
TV show & would like to live the stories themselves; for these dancers we offer a Teen Musical Theater class to
support their other music & dance endeavors. This class is for both guys & girls, so release your inner Fred or
Ginger and come join us!
We also have a Recreational Teen Lyrical class. Lyrical is a hybrid of ballet technique with the dynamics & tricks
from jazz, and it's purpose is to interpret the song's lyrics. An emotional dance form, lyrical is a popular choice for
teenagers! Due to it's technical nature, a minimum of 2 yrs of ballet & 1 year of jazz, or special permission from
the FFDC staff, are required for admission into the lyrical class.
For teens with prior dance experience, a private placement evaluation should be set up with our director, Miss
Jennifer, to determine where you'd fit into the Footsteps program. To do so, please contact our office at
614-883-5599.
followed by Tap Beginner 10+, Ballet Ruby 10+, Jazz Beginner 10+, or Hip Hop Beginner 10+.
Many teens are involved in show choirs and school musicals, and/or are "Gleeks" who just love musical-related
TV show & would like to live the stories themselves; for these dancers we offer a Teen Musical Theater class to
support their other music & dance endeavors. This class is for both guys & girls, so release your inner Fred or
Ginger and come join us!
We also have a Recreational Teen Lyrical class. Lyrical is a hybrid of ballet technique with the dynamics & tricks
from jazz, and it's purpose is to interpret the song's lyrics. An emotional dance form, lyrical is a popular choice for
teenagers! Due to it's technical nature, a minimum of 2 yrs of ballet & 1 year of jazz, or special permission from
the FFDC staff, are required for admission into the lyrical class.
For teens with prior dance experience, a private placement evaluation should be set up with our director, Miss
Jennifer, to determine where you'd fit into the Footsteps program. To do so, please contact our office at
614-883-5599.
| Musical Theater Program |
Our Musical Theater Program is expanding to include younger dancers, offering classes for ages 10-12 and 13+.
Guys and girls alike can learn Broadway show-style dances from popular musicals such as Oklahoma, West Side
Story, Chicago, South Pacific, and Footloose. Singing is not involved (we are, after all, a dance studio!), and no
prior dance experience is required to join the fun.
The mission of this program is to prepare students with an interest in doing school musicals and/or show choirs for
their auditions, and also for success in their school shows and concerts. While gaining valuable movement and
performing skills, musical theater students also get to learn about the musicals they are learning repertoire from,
including video clips, and dance styles and the dancers who made them famous.
For those who wish to take their Musical Theater training to the next level, we encourage you to consider Musical
Theater Company. Please check out our FDT Company page for further info about MT Co.
Guys and girls alike can learn Broadway show-style dances from popular musicals such as Oklahoma, West Side
Story, Chicago, South Pacific, and Footloose. Singing is not involved (we are, after all, a dance studio!), and no
prior dance experience is required to join the fun.
The mission of this program is to prepare students with an interest in doing school musicals and/or show choirs for
their auditions, and also for success in their school shows and concerts. While gaining valuable movement and
performing skills, musical theater students also get to learn about the musicals they are learning repertoire from,
including video clips, and dance styles and the dancers who made them famous.
For those who wish to take their Musical Theater training to the next level, we encourage you to consider Musical
Theater Company. Please check out our FDT Company page for further info about MT Co.
| Zumba |
Zumba is the latest dance-fitness craze, and it is a low-impact, high-energy Latin-based form of exercise. It
strengthens the muscles, builds core fitness & stamina, and is a wonderful cardio workout--you'll forget that
you're exercising because it's so much fun! Our instructor, Tracy Hardison, is a hard-core believer in Zumba,
having gotten certified to teach it after losing a life-changing amount of weight due to Zumba; her enthusiasm is
contagious, and her students have a ball getting fit under her tutelage. She breaks the steps down in an
easy-to-understand way, and takes away the intimidation factor of getting involved in a class by making it a
social occasion. Too much fun!
Anyone who wishes to try Zumba may take a free trial class. We also offer free trial classes periodically
throughout the dance season--check our News page to see if any are currently on the schedule.
Tuition for Zumba is paid directly to Tracy Hardison, not to Footsteps. Zumba classes are on a punch-card
system: Buy a 10-class card for $50, and take class whenever it fits into your schedule, getting your card
punched each time till you run out of classes. This makes it easy for busy adults to join in the Zumba life at their
convenience!
At this time, Zumba is scheduled on Fridays 6:00-7:00 and Sundays noon-1:00. Classes may be added during
the dance season--keep an eye on our Schedules page for updates!
For more information about Zumba, follow this link to the official Zumba website: http://www.zumba.com. Tracy
Hardison herself would also be happy to give you further details or get you registered if you contact her at
614-804-0855 or myzumbalife@yahoo.com.
strengthens the muscles, builds core fitness & stamina, and is a wonderful cardio workout--you'll forget that
you're exercising because it's so much fun! Our instructor, Tracy Hardison, is a hard-core believer in Zumba,
having gotten certified to teach it after losing a life-changing amount of weight due to Zumba; her enthusiasm is
contagious, and her students have a ball getting fit under her tutelage. She breaks the steps down in an
easy-to-understand way, and takes away the intimidation factor of getting involved in a class by making it a
social occasion. Too much fun!
Anyone who wishes to try Zumba may take a free trial class. We also offer free trial classes periodically
throughout the dance season--check our News page to see if any are currently on the schedule.
Tuition for Zumba is paid directly to Tracy Hardison, not to Footsteps. Zumba classes are on a punch-card
system: Buy a 10-class card for $50, and take class whenever it fits into your schedule, getting your card
punched each time till you run out of classes. This makes it easy for busy adults to join in the Zumba life at their
convenience!
At this time, Zumba is scheduled on Fridays 6:00-7:00 and Sundays noon-1:00. Classes may be added during
the dance season--keep an eye on our Schedules page for updates!
For more information about Zumba, follow this link to the official Zumba website: http://www.zumba.com. Tracy
Hardison herself would also be happy to give you further details or get you registered if you contact her at
614-804-0855 or myzumbalife@yahoo.com.