SCHOOL OF DANCE
HANDBOOK 2021-2022
ART IS FOR EVERYONE
TABLE OF CONTENTS 4
ABOUT US
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW 16
Lawrence Arts Center
Ballet Enrollment Requirements
School of Dance
Private Lessons
Facilities & Parking Staff & Faculty
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet
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CLASS ATTIRE & POLICIES 18
REGISTRATION & PAYMENT
How to Enroll Class/Level Placement Tuition, Discounts, Financial Aid
Little Movers (Preschool Dance & Kinder Ballet) Intro to Ballet
Scholarships
Ballet I-II
GENERAL POLICIES & EXPECTATION
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Ballet V-VII, Pointe
Guidelines on Safe Participation
Jazz & Tap
During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Ballet III-IV Chinese Dance Hip Hop
In-Person Class Participation
Irish Step Dance
Virtual Participation
Pilates
Communication
Teens Ballet
Class Attendance
Adult Classes
Class Cancelation & Changes
Where to Purchase Dance Attire & Equipment
Due to COVID-19 Inclement Weather Student Code of Conduct
PERFORMANCE 23
Social Media
Studio Etiquette
Productions
Progress Reports Class Observation Week
Virtual Student Choreography Showcase
Child Pick-Up Policy
End of Year Showcase
Lost & Found
Lawrence Ballet Theatre
Dressing Rooms
OPPORTUNITIES & YOUTH COMPANY
About Us LAWRENCE ARTS CENTER
The Lawrence Arts Center is a regional center for visual and performing arts, contemporary exhibitions, films, lectures and cultural education. The Lawrence Arts Center offers fully developed curricula in ballet and modern dance, theater performance, and visual arts. The Arts Center employs more than120 teaching artists whose courses observe national standards for visual and performing arts. About 10,000 students take courses annually, and the Arts Center greets more than 200,000 visitors each year. The mission of the Lawrence Arts Center is to create excellent and meaningful arts experiences with and for the community through education, exhibitions, and performances.
SCHOOL OF DANCE
Since 1985, the School of Dance curriculum has been based on national dance education standards and taught by professionals. Students follow a sequential training program developed to suit age and ability that fosters creativity as well as technique. Focused on developing the artist as well as the art, the School of Dance offers frequent opportunities for performance through numerous and diverse dance productions as well as the pre-professional youth company, Lawrence Ballet Theatre. Our mission is to cultivate artistry, excellence, and healthy living in our community through dance training, performance, and community outreach. Cultivating the art of dance throughout the community, our vision is to make dance 100% accessible to all. The School of Dance strives to: • provide comprehensive technical training and build knowledge appropriate for each discipline. • promote artistic contributions to the community through innovation, exploration, and enrichment programs. • provide exceptional dance experiences through visiting guest artists, master classes, intensive workshops and performances. • promote diversity and excellence in the dance community.
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Facilities and Parking LAWRENCE ARTS CENTER, 940 NEW HAMPSHIRE STREET
The School of Dance maintains two dance studios at the Lawrence Arts Center: Studio 206 (40’ x 36’ x 12’) & Studio 208 (36’ x 36’ x 12’). Both studios include state-of-the-art audio equipment, full-length mirrors, ballet barres, Marley floors, and upright pianos. Studio 206 is used also as a convertible performance studio complete with a HD video monitor and black theatrical curtains. Free two-hour parking is available on the lower two floors of the parking garage across the street from the Lawrence Arts Center. There is metered parking on New Hampshire Street. There is a 15-minute loading zone along the street on the southeast side of New Hampshire Street in front of the Arts Center. STUDIO 840, 840 EAST 9TH ST, #8
Located at the intersection of Delaware and 9th, Studio 840 offers parking in front of the building along Delaware street.
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Staff HANAN MISKO | SCHOOL OF DANCE DIRECTOR Hanan Misko studied at the Kansas City Ballet School and earned his BFA from The Juilliard School under the directorship of Lawrence Rhodes. He has danced with numerous companies including Störling Dance Theater, Mark Morris Dance Group, the Metropolitan Opera (Faust, Don Giovanni, Orfeo ed Euridice, and Nixon in China), Jessica Lang Dance; and as a company member with Ballet Hispanico, Martha Graham Dance Company, and Nimbus Dance works in New York City. Hanan served as artistic director for the Fine Arts Summer Academy’s Dance Ensemble in Nashville from 2008 to 2013. He has also taught at the Kansas City Ballet School, the Wharton Music Center, The Culture House, in New Jersey public schools after-school programs, and in the Juilliard School’s C.L.I.M.B. program. Contact Hanan Misko by calling 785.843.2787 or by emailing hanan@lawrenceartscenter.org
CLAIRE BUSS | SCHOOL OF DANCE COORDINATOR, JAZZ INSTRUCTOR Claire Buss is a Salt Lake City native, and a student at the University of Kansas. She is pursuing a BFA in dance and a BSE in physical education. Claire has been dancing since she was 3, and teaching since 2019. Her favorite styles of dance are jazz and hip hop. She is so happy to be a part of the dance staff at the Lawrence Arts Center! Contact Claire Buss by calling 785.843.2787 or emailing claire@lawrenceartscenter.org
JUSTIN HARBAUGH | SCHOOL OF DANCE COORDINATOR, BALLET, JAZZ, TAP INSTRUCTOR Justin Harbaugh is a native of Kansas, earning degrees in music from Emporia State University and Kansas State University. He has choreographed and performed in a variety productions at the Lawrence Arts Center. For 10 years Justin danced onboard Holland America Cruise Line in their shows. He has also appeared in several productions at Music Theater of Wichita, and choreographed for several area high school productions. Justin holds a Ph.D from the University of Kansas in Clarinet Performance. Contact Claire Buss by calling 785.843.2787 or emailing claire@lawrenceartscenter.org
CYNTHIA CREWS | ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, LAWRENCE BALLET THEATRE Cynthia Crews started her dance training in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with Roman Jasinski and Moscelyn Larkin, acclaimed Ballet Russe stars and co-founders of Tulsa Ballet Theatre. In high school she performed solo roles with Tulsa Civic Ballet, including being Tulsa’s very first Clara in The Nutcracker. Cynthia continued her dance education in New York City as a full-scholarship student for Joffrey Ballet and Harkness Ballet. She then returned to Oklahoma and earned a BFA in Ballet Pedagogy from the University of Oklahoma. Cynthia performed as a principal with Tulsa Ballet Theatre for nine years. She danced leading roles in Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco, Ruth Page’s Die Fledermaus, Peter Anastos’ Footage, Loyce Holton’s Wingborne, as well as Giselle, Coppelia, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. She also taught master classes, performed as a guest artist and presented numerous school lecture demonstrations each year. Cynthia has performed and choreographed in many communities and professional musical productions including Discoveryland Outdoor Dramas, Theatre Tulsa, and the Manatee Players (FL). She has been the Artistic Director of Lawrence Ballet Theatre since its inception.
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Contact Cynthia Crews by emailing ccrews@lawrenceartscenter.org
Faculty
CLICK ON INSTRUCTOR IMAGE FOR FULL LISTING OF AVAILABLE CLASSES
WANWAN CAI | CHINESE CLASSICAL DANCE Wanwan Cai began dancing ballet and Chinese classical dance when she was five. She trained with her local art school for many years and continued her dance training in college. During college and graduate school, she also performed with a Shaoxing opera company in Tianjin, China. Wanwan taught yoga at OmTree Shala, and has served as the director and teacher of the Lawrence Jasmine dance group.
PAIGE COMPARATO | BALLET Paige Comparato started her ballet training in Topeka at age nine at Barbara’s Conservatory of Danse. She later danced with Ballet Midwest where she performed several principal roles. Paige continued her ballet training at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth for two years before returning to Kansas University to pursue a degree in Art History. She primarily teaches ballet but also choreographs, directs and costumes dance performances including Elfwyn’s Saga, Sleeping Beauty and most recently, La Fille Mal Gardee. Paige also teaches ballet for the AIM adult contemporary dance company and youth contemporary company at Point B dance studio. Paige has worked for the arts center in many capacities for more than 20 years.
HOPE DEYOUNG DANIELS | BALLET Hope DeYoung-Daniels grew up in Kansas City and has been passionate about dance for as long as she can remember. At age 15, she moved to New York City to train under the guidance of Deborah Wingert, François Perron, Marina Stavitskaya, David Howard, and Elena Kunikova, among others. Hope has shared a stage with members of New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and Brice Mousset’s Oui Danse. She has taught classical ballet, contemporary, and jazz classes in the Kansas City area for six years. She is a graduate of Johnson County Community College and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Kansas, but the most important title she holds is “mom.” Hope is excited to bring her love of movement to the Lawrence Arts Center.
TRISTIAN GRIFFIN | ARTIST IN RESIDENCE, BALLET, MODERN Tristian Griffin was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. He trained at the Legacy School of the Arts, Virginia School of the Arts, and Kansas City Ballet. In 2014, Tristian graduated from Texas Christian University earning his BFA in ballet with a minor in English. While at TCU, he performed works with featured solos by Christian Von Howard, Gerald Arpino, and Susan Jaffe, and was awarded the Corps de Ballet International’s Basil Thompson Memorial Scholarship in 2012, and the Nordan Fine Arts Scholarship for all four years of undergraduate study. Following graduation, Tristian danced with Garth Fagan Dance Company under the direction of Garth Fagan, PJ Norwood, and Natalie Rogers-Cropper. He has also danced with Washington DC-based contemporary dance company Company E, and with the esteemed Owen/Cox Dance Group under the direction of Jennifer Owen. In addition to dancing professionally, he has also taught in various settings including classes through Em’s Spotlight and HALO Foundation for underprivileged children within the Kansas City community.
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ANNA HASTINGS | JAZZ, TAP Anna Hastings is from Olathe, Kansas. She is currently pursuing a BA in dance and a minor in business at KU, where she is also a Rock Chalk Dancer. Anna is excited to be a part of the team at Lawrence Arts Center!
JEREL HILDING | BALLET As a principal dancer with the Joffrey Ballet for 15 years, Jerel Hilding performed in works by many of the 20th century’s most influential choreographers, including George Balanchine, Gerald Arpino, Jerome Robbins, Frederic Ashton, John Cranko, Kurt Jooss, Leonide Massine, Mark Morris, and Twyla Tharp. He directed the New Jersey Ballet’s Artist-in-Education program and worked as an instructor for New York’s City Center Theatre Outreach Program. Hilding is an associate professor and associate chair of dance at the University of Kansas, where he teaches all levels of ballet, pointe, pas de deux and music for dancers. Jerel holds a BFA in Music from Louisiana State University in New Orleans (now the University of New Orleans).
ELIZABETH LOLLAR | BALLET Krysytna Hilding danced with the Joffrey Ballet for 10 years performing in works by Jerome Robbins, Twyla Tharp, Frederic Ashton, Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino among others. As a student, she received a Ford Foundation Scholarship to study at New York City Ballet’s School of American Ballet, and performed as a guest artist with Edward Villella’s touring company and as a leading dancer with the New Jersey Ballet. As a performer, she toured internationally, appeared in the acclaimed PBS series Dance in America, and in a TV special featuring Diana Ross. She also danced at the Kennedy Center Performance of American Arts for President Jimmy Carter and Vice Premier of China Deng Xiaoping.
BETSY MCCAFFERTY | PRESCHOOL DANCE, KINDER BALLET Betsy started ballet in Wichita, KS as a child. She continued studying as an adult under Deborah Bettinger’s program at the Lawrence School of Ballet as well as the Lawrence Arts Center. She has enjoyed opportunities to dance in the Lawrence Ballet Ensemble, the Choreographer’s Showcase events, and the Kansas Nutcracker. Betsy teaches preschool ballet, kinder ballet, dancing fairy tales, and beginning ballet classes at the Arts Center.
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CLICK ON INSTRUCTOR IMAGE FOR FULL LISTING OF AVAILABLE CLASSES
AMANDA PINTORE | CONTEMPORARY MOVEMENT Amanda Pintore is a director, choreographer, and educator focusing on movement and dance education, devised theatre, and making theatre and dance performances with and for 2-5 year olds. She is the Associate Director of Performing Arts at the Arts Center. She recently directed Ish, a contemporary dance performance for the Arts Center School of Dance. She has an MFA in Theatre for Youth from Arizona State University.
ASHLEY SANDEFUR | PILATES Dance had been a part of Ashley Sandefur’s life and heart from an early age, but it was a knee surgery in high school that led her to a love and admiration for physical therapy. Ashley graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in exercise science in 2000. After working in a physical therapy setting for a few years, she was introduced to Pilates, which married her love for movement and science seamlessly. Ashley has taught rehab-based Pilates in Lawrence and Topeka for more than a decade, practicing different styles of rehabilitation varying from injury rehab, injury prevention pertaining to dancers, and chronic trauma, as well as for basic wellbeing and health. Movement cannot be overemphasized as part of our whole health. It is Ashley’s honor to help others move through life and discover wellness.
ANNIE STARK | IRISH STEP DANCE Annie Stark is a third-generation Irish dancer in her family with roots in Sligo, Ireland. She is a champion Irish dancer and teacher with the Driscoll School of Irish Dance where she trains and competes year round. She is also a company member of the dance company Ceili at the Crossroads, fusing traditional and modern Irish dance with contemporary dancing. Along with being a dancer, she is an accomplished Irish fiddler, and performs Sundays as the in-house dancer at O’Dowds Irish Pub in Kansas City. Annie studied violin at the Chicago College of Performing Arts. The mixture of the two art forms encourages a unique perspective on Irish dance.
MAYA TILLMAN-RAYTON | HIP HOP Maya Tillman-Rayton is a KU graduate with a degree in human biology. Currently she is a faculty member in KU’s Department of Theatre & Dance, and recently choreographed a piece for the University Dance Company titled “Procession.” Maya’s teaching career spans 15 years and has included students of all ages in Lawrence and Kansas City. She is married to a “retired” dancer and has two beautiful children.
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Registration & Payment HOW TO ENROLL
Students are required to enroll each semester before attending class. Class listings are available online and in the catalog. Interested students may enroll in classes online, over the phone or in person through the front desk. Each semester’s weekly class schedule is available for download on our webpage. CLASS/LEVEL PLACEMENT(level-based classes only) NEW STUDENTS: For Levels I and up, students are required to be placed into a level by an instructor to ensure proper enrollment. To arrange for level placement, please contact School of Dance Director, Hanan Misko, at hanan@lawrenceartscenter.org. CURRENT STUDENTS: Students are expected to attend each level for a minimum of two years and/or until they have demonstrated a mastery of current material. Students are not automatically promoted after one year, regardless of age, unless it is an agebased class. See Policies & Expectations for more. TRY A CLASS! The School of Dance maintains a ‘try it before you buy it’ policy where new and returning students are given the option to try any new dance class for FREE! To do so, contact School of Dance Director, Hanan Misko, at hanan@lawrenceartscenter.org. TUITION A minimum of 10 percent of the total tuition cost is due at enrollment as a down payment. Payment plans are available through the front desk, and must be paid in full before the end of each session. Full payment can also be made online. The Arts Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Please make all checks payable to the Lawrence Arts Center. Please note the School of Dance does not prorate tuition for late enrollments. Students are welcome to make up their missed classes in another class. Please contact School of Dance staff by emailing dance@lawrenceartscenter.org for more details. DANCE BUNDLE DISCOUNT Individuals and families who enroll in three or more weekly dance classes receive 25 percent off all dance tuition. Discount pricing can be applied when enrolling online or with the front desk. Families wishing to set up a payment plan and/or apply for financial aid will still need to do so by contacting the front desk staff. Additional benefits of our bundle program include no registration, audition, or costuming fees for dance classes and the End of Year Showcase! The dance bundle discount cannot be combined with any other discount.
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CLICK FOR MORE ABOUT APPLYING FOR FINANCIAL AID
FINANCIAL AID Financial aid is available for students who qualify based on household income. Financial aid is awarded throughout the year for youth and adults as funds are available. Applications and more information are available at the front desk and online. TRANSFERRING CLASSES & CREDITS Students may transfer between classes of the same or lesser level/age requirement at their discretion. However, all discretionary transfers are subject to space availability and a $10 transfer fee. Payments toward tuition is transferable. In cases where previously made payments exceed the tuition of the class being transferred to, the balance will be returned as a credit. Credits can only be applied to class tuition and cannot be applied to ticket sales or merchandise such as DVDs or T-shirt order sales. Class/level transfers at the recommendation of the Dance Faculty and School of Dance Director will not incur a transfer fee.
BOYS DANCE SCHOLARSHIP
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
The School of Dance offers scholarships for young men who demonstrate an interest in the field of dance. To be eligible, applicants must be between 2nd-12th grade, have trained at the School of Dance for a minimum of one year, and are endorsed with a reference from a School of Dance faculty member. In addition, scholarship awardees agree to meet with the School of Dance Director each semester. Scholarships awarded can be used to cover 50 percent of dance class tuition during the Fall and Winter-Spring semesters. Interested applicants should contact Hanan Misko, School of Dance Director, at hanan@lawrenceartscenter.org for more details. CARMINE BALLERE SCHOLARSHIP
Established in 1997, the Carmine Ballere Scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated excellence and commitment in dance. Encouraging the study of ballet and a lifelong devotion to dance, the scholarship covers the cost of four ballet and pointe classes per week, as well as all production and participation fees during the Fall 2020/Spring 2021 semesters. Awardees are required to serve as teachers’ assistants for one Preschool/Kinder class per week, and must currently be enrolled in Ballet IV-VII to audition. To apply, students must attend a scheduled in-person audition.
CLICK FOR MORE ABOUT SCHOLARSHIPS
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Policies & Expectations In-person class participation is subject to the guidelines set forth by the Kansas Department of Health & Environment, the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department and Arts Center availability.
IN-PERSON CLASS PARTICIPATION Everyone entering the Lawrence Arts Center and Studio 840 must complete a COVID-19 self-screening, which can be found on the website. CLICK FOR COVID-19 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR PHASED REOPENING
Check the website for current information. • Dressing Room will be closed so students shoudl arrive wearing dance attire. • If necessary, studio capacity might become limited. ARRIVAL • Students should arrive no earlier than 10 minutes prior to class to reduce congestion in the hallways. • Students should arrive wearing dance clothes under street clothes. DROP-OFF • Outside Dance Studios on the 2nd Floor. • Caregivers of students pre-K thru 5th grade must come into the Arts Center to dropoff their children. • It’s important that students use the restroom prior to class to avoid students having to use the bathroom during class time. PICK-UP • Outside of preschool rooms 105 & 106 on the 1st Floor. • Caregivers of students pre-K thru 5th grade must come into the Arts Center to pick up children at this designated location. Students 6th grade and up are permitted to leave the building. • Caregivers are expected to pick up their child promptly upon class dismissal, otherwise it will be considered a late pick-up. LATE PICK-UP Parents are encouraged to call the front desk at (785) 843-2787 to let staff know when they will be late. This is reassuring to both staff and students. All pick-ups are considered late after 15 minutes for all ages. REPEATED LATE PICK-UP Upon a second late pick-up, parents will be billed $10 for every 10 minutes late to cover the attending staff time. After a third late pick-up without prior notification we may ask the family not to return and issue a refund for the remainder of the class. With habitual lateness, or if a parent is over an hour late at any time, or staff is unable to reach a parent or emergency contact via telephone, we may call the police to report an abandoned child.
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When necessary, student may request to attend virtually via the Virtual Dance Portal. Students who are not feeling well are encourage to participate virtually. Please contact dance staff or instructor in advance to arrange accomodation. STUDENT/CAREGIVER EXPECTATIONS FOR VIRTUAL CLASSES • Arrive online 10 mins prior to the start of your class. • Students will be placed in a “waiting room” and will be let in to the Zoom meeting by the teacher. • Dress appropriately for your class (refer to Attire/Dress Code). • Hair should be properly groomed. • Remove any unnecessary furniture, cords, rugs or other hazards to have an open and safe space to dance. • Obtain any props or supplies for the class and have ready before class begins. If a ballet barre or something similar is required, make sure that what you are holding onto is secure. A door jamb or wall works better than a wobbly chair. • Pin your teacher to full-screen viewing. • Mute your own video to avoid disruption. • Remember to unmute yourself to ask a question. • Virtual classes are exclusively for current School of Dance students. • Students should arrive at least 10 mins before class start time. This is to ensure proper warm-up and readiness for class. • The instructor will allow in students who are present at the start of the class via the “waiting room.” LATE ARRIVAL • If you’re running late, unfortunately the School of Dance cannot guarantee that you will be able to enter the Zoom session once class has started. WHAT WE HAVE FOUND WORKS BEST FOR ONLINE LEARNING • Place the camera at waist or shoulder height. Having the camera on the floor is not a good angle for learning a combination or for the teacher to give instructions. • Place the camera far enough away to see your whole body. If the teacher can only see a small section of your body they will not be able to give you guidance on adjustments to be made in your dancing. • Though siblings are welcome to dance along, be sure they are not distracting the dancer from learning during class. • Since dancers are on mute be sure to use “thumbs up/thumbs down” signs to indicate you understand combinations or raise your hand to ask a question.
VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION HOW TO JOIN US VIRTUALLY VIA ZOOM Step #1 Contact School of Dance staff to prearrange virtual participation. Step #2 Download Zoom at zoom.us/download. Step #3 Click this link for a short video tutorial on how to use Zoom: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hIkCmbvAHQQ Step #4 Click the Virtual Dance Portal from the School of Dance home page and enter the password provided to access your class. If you experience any technical difficulties, call the Arts Center at 785.843.2787. VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE MUST BE ARRANGED IN ADVANCE BY REQUEST. PLEASE CONTACT DANCE STAFF OR INSTRUCTOR.
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COMMUNICATION
CLASS ATTENDANCE
CLASS CANCELATIONS AND CHANGES
The School of Dance relies heavily on email to communicate information to families, so it is imperative that your contact information is up to date. If this is your first semester with us, please visit or call the front desk to ensure that your email address, phone number, emergency contact, and home address are correct. Returning families should also check to make sure contact information is current. Secondary emails can be shared with staff, dance@lawrenceartscenter.org . Regular class attendance is essential for proper development. Students with inconsistent attendance will progress at a slower rate. Students are expected to arrive to class on time and properly attired. Because tardiness disrupts class docus and prevents proper warm-up, students who arrive late to class may be asked to participate through observation. If a student isn’t feeling well, they should attend virtually. See”Virtual Attendance” for more information. COVID-19 PANDEMIC In the event an instructor is unable to pass the Arts Center’s COVID-19 self-screening protocol, affected classes will be held virtually via the Virtual Dance Portal or cancelled. Changes to classes will be announced through email as soon as they are made. INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY When conditions are unsafe for travel for students and faculty, the Lawrence Arts Center will announce cancellations and closures via social media, our website, the Lawrence Journal-World, KPR 91.5FM, and KLWN 1320AM. All registered students will be informed by email. Daytime class cancellations will be announced by 10:00 pm the night before when possible, and no later than 7:00 am the morning of. Evening class cancellations, including production rehearsals, will be announced by 2:00 pm the day of. Event rentals and Arts Center performances will only be cancelled if KDOT closes highways due to inclement weather or a state of emergency is placed on our area. Arts-based preschool and kindergarten will automatically be cancelled when USD 497 classes are cancelled.The Lawrence Arts Center will offer make-up classes when possible. If there is no announcement, classes will be held as scheduled!
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
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Student Code of Conduct: SHARE SEEK opportunities to challenge yourself and grow. HAVE courage to create and ask questions. ARRIVE to each class on time and properly attired. RESPECT the instructors and others. ENGAGE in the learning process.
SOCIAL MEDIA Students and families should exercise the utmost caution when participating in any form of social media or digital communications. We strongly encourage parents to speak with their child prior to the start of the semester and periodically throughout the year about the appropriate use of social media and digital communications. No photos or videos in dressing rooms and restrooms. STUDIO ETIQUETTE Only students, instructors, and Arts Center staff are permitted inside the studios unless otherwise invited. A staff member must be present in a studio for children to enter the room. All studio equipment, including multimedia equipment and the pianos, are for staff use only. No food or drink in the dance studios. Sealed water bottles are permitted. No street shoes. Hip Hip shoes must be clean. ANTI-BULLYING POLICY The Lawrence Arts Center’s vision is that everyone has a right to pursue their artistic interests in a safe, caring, equitable and inclusive environment. Bullying behavior inhibits artistic development and is in direct opposition to a welcoming culture. At the Lawrence Arts Center, we describe bullying as any physical, verbal or relational / social behavior that causes physical, emotional, financial or social harm to another person. We follow up on all concerns expressed by children, caregivers and staff. We address bullying behaviors in a timely, constructive way and continue to communicate with all parties until conflict is resolved. More information is available online.
The School of Dance keeps three Lost & Found baskets outside of the dance studios for the following items: dance attire, dance shoes, and miscellaneous items. Please note that items left in the Lost & Found after four weeks will be donated to area charities.
LOST & FOUND
The two main purposes of the Progress Report are to communicate where a student is in their development and to encourage growth. Students should expect to remain in the same level for a minimum of 2 years. Students develop at different rates and level placement is not an indicator of their talent and personal growth.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Fall level placement for students is tentative until confirmed during the initial two weeks of fall classes. We reserve the right to adjust a student’s level placement in order to provide the best training possible. Detailed progress reports are delivered electronically at the end of Fall and Winter-Spring semesters. The Winter-Spring report includes a recommended level placement for the following year. Please note that level placement is only applicable for skill-based classes. For age/grade based-classes, enroll accordingly. CLASS OBSERVATION WEEK Class Observation Week offers friends and families an opportunity to see student progress throughout the year. Observation Week dates and details will be communicated to families and students through email.
CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Students are asked to arrive wearing attire under street clothes.
LAWRENCE: At the beginning of each semester, the School of Dance in partnership with Dance Shoppe of Kansas City hosts a pop-up store with various dance attire items for sale. This option is recommended for ballet, contemporary, jazz and tap genres. Information about this event is delivered via email. KANSAS CITY:
ONLINE:
DRESSING ROOMS
WHERE TO BUY DANCE ATTIRE/EQUIPMENT
Dance Shoppe | danceshoppeinc.net 512 NW Englewood Road, Kansas City, MO 64118 (816) 455-1995 Discount Dance | discountdance.com Dancewear Solutions | www.dancewearsolutions.com
CLICK FOR COVID-19 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR PHASED REOPENING
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Curriculum Overview Students should expect to attend each level for a minimum of two years.
WEE DANCE! (Ages 1 – 2)
LITTLE MOVERS
(Ages 3 – kindergarten)
BALLET, BOYS BALLET, TEEN BALLET, POINTE (1st grade & up)
This class will bring parents and children together to build mobility and foster creativity using developmentally appropriate songs and games. We will use creative dance as a springboard into exploration and discovery— expressing stories, ideas, and dreams— all while learning the ins and outs of being in a classroom/dance studio setting. Tuition is for one child/adult pair.
Through exploration and play, students in these classes improve motor skills and self-control, and gain confidence.
BALLET, BOYS BALLET, TEENS BALLET, POINTE (1ST GRADE & UP) Beginning with Intro to Ballet, School of Dance students follow a sequential program in which each level is designed to encourage greater awareness of musicality and coordination as well as increased flexibility and strength. Classes consist of comprehensive training in classical ballet, taught by highly trained professionals. Enrollment requirements per class: Intro to Ballet: 1 class per week Ballet I-II: 1 class per week Ballet III-IV: 2 classes per week Ballet V-VII: 3 classes per week Pointe: 2 classes per week in addition to 3 Ballet technique classes.
MODERN
Teaching the fundamentals of modern dance as well as various other contemporary forms including floor work, Hamilton’s release technique, and Afrocentric influences, these classes explore circular and grounded movements through an array of contemporary and modern dance methods. Prior dance experience required.
CONTEMPORARY MOVEMENT
Based on the philosophy that every person can and should dance, these classes teach movement exploration and encourage play, structured improvisation, balance, and body conditioning within a social peer group.
JAZZ
The jazz program includes various styles of jazz such as classic, Broadway, and contemporary. Beginning students focus on building rhythm, coordination, and character skills until they are ready for syncopation movements, body isolations, dynamic leaps, suspended turns, and stylized choreography.
TAP
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These classes combine rhythm, musicality, and coordination into a fun percussive movement session for your feet. Starting with Level I, students remain in each level until they’ve mastered the required material to progress to the next level.
Designed to be fun and energetic, hip-hop combines stylized movements and complex body rhythm with witty, compelling choreography. Students explore various styles of hip-hop including intricate percussive movements, pop, lock, break and lyrical hip-hop
These classes teach the fundamentals of the graceful, fluid, and breath-based movements of Chinese Classical Dance.
IRISH STEP DANCE These classes are upbeat and involve choreographed traditional and non-traditional classes. Beginning-level students will learn the basic Jig and reel steps. Intermediate level students will include more complicated steps and preparations for hard shoe. All are welcome to join the Irish Step Dance program and enjoy this cultural dance form.
These classes are designed to strengthen your core and balance your muscle development in order to create a strong and flexible body.
HIP HOP
CHINESE CLASSICAL DANCE
(2nd grade & up)
IRISH STEP DANCE
(2nd grade & up)
WELLNESS & CONDITIONING
(6th grade & up)
The School of Dance hosts classes with distinguished master teachers throughout the year to give students exposure to the highest levels of dance.
MASTER CLASSES & SEMINARS
PRIVATE LESSONS Private lessons with the dance faculty are available depending on studio and instructor availability. Cost varies based on instructor and type of class. A $10/hr fee is charged in addition to the instructor fee. To schedule a private lesson, contact the School of Dance Director by emailing hanan@lawrenceartscenter.org. Payment for individual private lessons should be received prior to each lesson through the front desk. Students may not pay for more than one lesson at once.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Since 2016, the Lawrence Dance Intensive has provided the regional dancer with quality artistic and development opportunities with accomplished faculty, guest artists, and choreographers. This summer, it returns to host a series of 1-week summer programs for ballet dancers ages 10-18yrs. Based on a diverse & well-balanced curriculum, this program strives to develop the artists of tomorrow.
LAWRENCE DANCE INTENSIVE: SUMMER BALLET
No pre-screening or audition required to attend. New participants will be requested to provide information and material to assess level placement. More information on financial aid and the intensive can be found on the Lawrence Arts Center website. Dancers must be between 10-18yrs years of age by the start of the intensive and dancing at an Intermediate/Advanced level
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Class Attire & Policies CLICK TO PURCHASE D A N C E AT T I R E
LITTLE MOVERS/ PRESCHOOL DANCE
Students are expected to follow the dress code and policies specified for each class. Please note that class attire may or may not be used as part of the costume for the end-of-year showcases. All students should have their names written clearly in both their shoes and their dancewear. NOTE: Each ballet level is assigned a class leotard; students may wear the dress code leotard or one comparable. Dress code is mandatory for Fall and Winter/Spring classes. If a student does not already have a class leotard, they are allowed to wear any leotard they may have for the first two weeks of class while the required leotard is obtained. ATTIRE: Black leotard (any style), white footless tights or footless dance leggings. SHOES: Black ballet slippers HAIR: Secured away from the eyes ATTIRE: Athletic shorts or pants and T-shirt SHOES: Black ballet slippers. HAIR: Secured away from the eyes.
POLICIES • Caregivers should take their child to the bathroom prior to each class. • Students are expected to be potty-trained. • Students should be able to follow two-step instructions. • Students and caregivers must follow strict drop-off/pick-up policies.
LITTLE MOVERS/ KINDER BALLET
ATTIRE: Pink leotard (any style), pink ballet tights (seamed if possible) SHOES: Pink ballet slippers HAIR: Secured away from the eyes ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights SHOES: Black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the eyes
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. POLICIES • Caregivers should take their child to the bathroom prior to each class. During the COVID-19 pandemic, staff cannot assist students who need to use the bathroom. If a student needs to use the bathroom during class, the caregiver will be called. • Students are expected to be potty-trained. • Students should be able to follow two-step instructions. • Students and caregivers must follow strict drop-off/pick-up policies.
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ATTIRE: Light pink leotard Capezio - CC100c Eurotard - 4464c, 44527c or 1064c SHOES: Pink ballet slippers HAIR: Must be secured away from the face and in a bun, if possible
INTRO TO BALLET
ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights SHOES: Black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. POLICIES • Caregivers should take their child to the bathroom prior to each class. During the COVID-19 pandemic, staff cannot assist students who need to use the bathroom. Students and caregivers must follow strict drop-off/pick-up policies. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022. ATTIRE: Level I: Light blue leotard Capezio - CC100C or CC01C Eurotard - 4419c, 44527c, 1089 Level II: Navy blue leotard Capezio - CC100C Eurotard - 44822c, 44819c, 10527c SHOES: Pink ballet shoes HAIR: Must be secured away from the face and in a bun, if possible
BALLET I-II
ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights, black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. POLICIES • Ballet I follows strict drop-off/pick-up policy. STUDENTS AT THIS LEVEL WILL RECEIVE A PROGRESS REPORT AFTER THE FALL AND WINTER/SPRING SEMESTERS. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022. ATTIRE Level III: Hunter green leotard Capezio - CC201c, CC102c Eurotard - 10527c Level IV: burgundy leotard Capezio - CC102 Eurotard - 44822c, 44822, 44819c, 44819, 10527c, 10527 SHOES: Pink ballet shoes HAIR: Must be secured away from the face and in a bun, if possible
BALLET III-IV
ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights, black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. POLICIES • Students at this level are required to take two ballet classes per week. STUDENTS AT THIS LEVEL WILL RECEIVE A PROGRESS REPORT AFTER THE FALL AND WINTER/SPRING SEMESTERS. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
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BALLET V-VII
ATTIRE: Level V: Eggplant leotard Eurotard - 44819, 44822, 4464 Level VI-VII: Black leotard Eurotard - 44822, 4488, 44726m SHOES: Pink ballet shoes POINTE SHOES: Teacher consultation is required before purchasing pointe shoes. Beginning Pointe students should refrain from purchasing pointe shoes until given further instruction. HAIR: Must be secured away from the face and in a bun, if possible ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights, black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. POLICIES • Students at this level are required to take three ballet classes per week. • Due to the pandemic, Ballet VII enrollment requirements have been reduced to only 3 ballet classes per week. STARTING AT LEVEL V, STUDENTS ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL IN PRE/BEGINNING POINTE CLASSES. STUDENTS AT THIS LEVEL WILL RECEIVE A PROGRESS REPORT AFTER THE FALL AND WINTER/SPRING SEMESTERS. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
TEEN BALLET CLASSES
ATTIRE: Black leotard of any style, pink ballet tights (seamed if possible) SHOES: Pink ballet shoes HAIR: Must be secured away from the face and in a bun, if possible ATTIRE: White T-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights, black ballet shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
During the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. STUDENTS AT THIS LEVEL WILL RECEIVE A PROGRESS REPORT AFTER THE FALL AND WINTER/SPRING SEMESTERS. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
CONTEMPORARY MOVEMENT & MODERN
ATTIRE: Black leotard (or required ballet level leotard), black jazz pants or Footless tights; bare feet HAIR: Secured away from the face ATTIRE: Black or white T-shirt or tank, black jazz pants or footless tights; bare feet HAIR: Secured away from the face
POLICIES • Contemporary Youth I follows a strict drop-off/pick-up policy. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
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ATTIRE: Black top (leotard or athletic shirt), and black jazz pants SHOES/TAP: Oxford style tap shoes SHOES/JAZZ: Soft soled jazz shoes HAIR: Secured away from the face
JAZZ & TAP
POLICIES • Combo and level I classes follow a strict drop-off/pick-up policy. DURING THE FALL SEMESTER, JAZZ II WILL PERFORM IN THE SHOWING ON DECEMBER 1. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
Attire: Comfortable dance clothing (T-shirts, tank tops, jazz pants, etc); NO jeans. Shoes: Clean, soft-soled jazz shoes or sneakers
HIP HOP
POLICIES • Level I classes follow a strict drop-off/pick-up policy. • Shoes must be clean. Students with dirty shoes will be asked to remove them. DURING THE FALL SEMESTER, HIP HOP II AND III WILL PERFORM IN THE SHOWING ON DECEMBER 1ST. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
ATTIRE: Black shorts or athletic pants; solid color T-shirt SHOES: black Irish, ballet, or other soft-shoes; hard shoes optional for Level II-III stu-
IRISH STEP DANCE
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POLICIES
• Intro and level I classes follow a strict drop-off/pick-up policy. DURING THE FALL SEMESTER, JAZZ IRISH STEP DANCE II AND III WILL PERFORM IN THE SHOWING ON DECEMBER 1. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
Attire: Any style leotard; jazz/yoga pants Shoes: Soft ballet shoes
CHINESE DANCE
Attire: Solid color shirt; jazz/yoga pants or footless tights Shoes: Soft ballet shoes POLICIES • Intro and level I classes follow a strict drop-off/pick-up policy. DURING THE FALL SEMESTER, CHINESE DANCE II-III WILL PERFORM IN THE SHOWING ON DECEMBER 1. DURING THE WINTER/SPRING SEMESTER, THIS CLASS WILL PERFORM IN THE END-OF-YEAR SHOWCASE, ANTICIPATED IN MAY 2022.
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PILATES & WELLNESS
ATTIRE: Comfortable clothing that allows for a wide range of movement (T-shirts, tank tops, jazz pants, etc); NO jeans SHOES: Socks, no bare feet during the COVID-19 pandemic
POLICIES • Students must provide their own Pilates mat.
ATTIRE FOR ADULTS We do not set dress codes for adult classes but do request that adults wear shoes according to the genre of the class and clothing that allows for a wide range of movement.
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Performance Opportunities & Pre-Professional Dance Company SCHOOL OF DANCE 2021-2022PRODUCTIONS
THE NUTCRACKER, A KANSAS BALLET | December 9-12, 2021 SPRING DANCE PRODUCTION | March 11-12, 2022 STUDENT CHOREOGRAPHY SHOWCASE
The Student Choreography Showcase is an event for students to perform self-choreographed dance works in a supportive and encouraging environment. Student choreographers are responsible for selecting and rehearsing their dancers leading up to the showcase. Intended for dancers and choreographers 3rd grade through adult. Learn more online. END OF YEAR SHOWCASE
During the Winter/Spring semesters youth classes prepare a dance piece to be performed in the School of Dance’s End of Year Showcase. This event is a crucial component of the dance curriculum and demonstrates the artistic growth of every student and class. SHOWCASE ATTIRE
To keep costume prices low, the School of Dance carefully considers costume assignments for each class. Usually, students will use part of their class’s dress attire as a base costume and/or will be provided a costume. If necessary, the students will be asked to purchase specified items. Students are responsible for purchasing their own hair/makeup supplies as assigned by class. DRESS REHEARSAL
Dress rehearsals occur during class time the final week of Winter/Spring classes. It is crucial for every student to attend. Detailed information will be made available in the spring via email. GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS
Graduating seniors who have attended the School of Dance for at least two years and are currently enrolled in Ballet V-VII, Irish Dance III, Hip Hop III, Jazz III, Modern II, and Tap IV are provided the the honor of performing a solo at the End of Year Showcase. If you are an interested senior, you must contact the School of Dance Director directly for more information. JAZZ/TAP/ HIP HOP/ IRISH/ CHINESE DANCE SHOWCASE | December 1
CLICK FOR COVID-19 HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR PHASED REOPENING
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Lawrence Ballet Theatre Company Lawrence Ballet Theatre (LBT) is the resident pre-professional ballet company of the Lawrence Arts Center. The mission of Lawrence Ballet Theatre is to provide extensive training and performance opportunities, and to broaden connections to the dance community. Led by Artistic Director Cynthia Crews, company members gain exposure and experience through numerous performances of classical ballet repertoire and original works. LBT dancers work directly with professional guest choreographers in addition to their work with the artistic director. Lawrence Ballet Theatre is a member company of the prestigious Regional Dance America/MidStates. Each year, Lawrence Ballet Theatre attends the annual RDA/Midstates Festival held in various cities across the Midwest. AUDITIONS AND PARTICIPATION Auditions are held each year for company members and apprentices. To be considered for LBT, applicants must attend a formal audition. Members are expected to meet requirements set by the artistic director and commit to a full year as a company member. REQUIREMENTS Company members & apprentices are required to: • Be at least 11 years of age or older. • Take three ballet technique classes per week. • Take one additional dance technique class of any style per week. • Attend all weekly company rehearsals (4-5 hours per week) and additional rehearsals during production weeks. • Be available to perform at scheduled events/concerts.
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