SCHOOL OF
DANCE
lawrence arts center
2018 — 2019
handbook
About the School of Dance Mission Our mission is to cultivate artistry, excellence and healthy living in our community through dance training, performance, and outreach.
Vision Cultivating the art of dance within the entire community, our vision is to make dance 100% accessible to all. For over 30 years, the School of Dance’s 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.
Program Sponsors TCK — THE TRUST COMPANY OF KANSAS HARRISON FAMILY FUND OF THE DOUGLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BARBARA NORDLING
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.
SABATINI ARCHITECTS TERESA MULINAZZI KEMPF, CFP AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. THE BURGER STAND THOMAS D. GALLOWAY FAMILY ANN DEAN PHOTOGRAPHY
• Promote diversity and excellence in the dance community.
This handbook is designed to orient students to the School of Dance’s policies and expectations. Please review this handbook thoroughly and direct any questions to our staff. If you have specific questions or needs at any time, please feel free to contact us.
Staff & Faculty Facilities & Parking
Table of Contents
Curriculum Overview Ballet Enrollment Requirements Registration & Payment
HOW TO ENROLL CLASSES/LEVEL PLACEMENT TUITION & FINANCIAL AID DANCE BUNDLE DISCOUNTS OPEN CLASS CARDS TRANSFERRING CLASSES & CREDITS SCHOLARSHIPS
Policies & Expectations
CHILD PICK UP POLICY INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY LOST & FOUND STUDIO ETIQUETTE SOCIAL MEDIA COMMUNICATION DRESSING ROOMS PROGRESS REPORTS CLASS OBSERVATION WEEK CLASS ATTENDANCE
Class Attire Performance Opportunities
LAWRENCE BALLET THEATRE
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Volunteer Opportunities Contact Information
Staff & Faculty Hanan Misko |
School of Dance Director
Hanan Misko studied at the Kansas City Ballet School and received his B.F.A. from The Juilliard School under the directorship of Lawrence Rhodes. He has danced with various 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. Mr. Misko has served as artistic director for the Fine Arts Summer Academy’s Dance Ensemble in Nashville, TN for the past six years. He has 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 SENDING AN EMAIL TO HANAN@LAWRENCARTSCENTER.ORG
Olivia Hernández |
School of Dance Coordinator
Olivia Hernández started her career at the Lawrence Arts Center as an administrative and costume volunteer, and has served as the School of Dance Coordinator since 2014. Prior to graduating with a B.F.A. in Visual Art, Expanded Media from the University of Kansas, she received her B.A. in Political Science & International Studies from Baker University in 2011. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Olivia has contributed costumes to several Lawrence Arts Center productions, including A Kansas Nutcracker and Summer Dance Theatre’s Little Orphan Annie. Olivia is a very proud student of the School of Dance’s Adult Dance program. CONTACT OLIVIA HERNÁNDEZ BY CALLING 785.843.2787 OR SENDING AN EMAIL TO OLIVIA@LAWRENCARTSCENTER.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 received a BFA in Ballet Pedagogy from The University of Oklahoma. Cynthia performed as a principal with Tulsa Ballet Theatre for nine years. Cynthia has performed and choreographed in many community and professional musical productions. Her teaching career started at The School of Tampa Ballet and continued at the Post School of Ballet (Southwest Virginia Ballet Company) and Jasinski Academy, the official school for Tulsa Ballet. Cynthia joined the Lawrence Arts Center in 2004, teaching primarily ballet and pointe. She is founder and Artistic Director of the Lawrence Ballet Theatre. CONTACT CYNTHIA CREWS BY EMAILING CREWS@LAWRENCEARTSCENTER.COM
About the Lawrence Arts Center The Lawrence Arts Center is a regional center for visual and performing arts, contemporary exhibitions, film, 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 over 120 teaching artists whose courses observe national standards for visual and performing arts. 10,000 students take courses
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annually, and the Arts Center greets over 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.
Jillian Armstrong | Tap Jillian grew up in Paola, Kansas where she danced with Dance Expressions for thirteen years and competed with them for five years. Currently, Jillian is attending the University of Kansas where she is majoring in dance with a minor in history. A senior at KU, Jillian has performed with the University Dance Company each semester and has gotten the opportunity to work with three guest artists, perform in Chicago, and even co-produce her own show, “Elementum.” Jillian has trained in ballet, contemporary, modern, jazz, hip-hop, tap, tumbling, African, flamenco, and East Indian but her favorite styles are contemporary and jazz.
Wanwan Cia |
Chinese Cultural 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 teaches yoga at OmTree Shala, and serves as the director and teacher of the Lawrence Jasmine dance group.
Paige Comparato |
Ballet
Paige Comparato started her ballet training at the age of nine in Topeka, KS at Barbara’s Conservatory of Dance and danced with Ballet Midwest; performing several principal roles. Paige continued her ballet training at Texas Christian University in Forth Worth, TX 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 over 20 years.
Stephanie Day | Little Movers, Ballet Stephanie studied dance in Tulsa, Oklahoma, receiving a BFA in ballet performance and a BA in French from the University of Oklahoma. She went on to perform with the Sacramento Ballet and helped facilitate its local education outreach program. After a career in sales, Stephanie paused to stay home with her children. She has remained steadily involved with community philanthropy
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 shared a stage with members of
New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and Brice Mousset’s Oui Danse. Hope 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 BA 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.
Rauly Dueñas | Hip Hop Rauly Dueñas is a seasoned performer, choreographer, and master class presenter with thirty years’ experience in Street Dancing and Popping & Locking Hip Hop styles. Rauly has worked with artists such as Mariah Carey and Earth, Wind & Fire, having travelled the world teaching street dancing and fitness techniques.
Sonia Engman | Hip Hop Sonia Engman is a recognized professional choreographer, performer, and educator who believes in the importance of art as a means of social change for people of all social and cultural backgrounds. At four years old, Sonia began studying dance, first at Hayden Ballet School then with Keshet Dance Company in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Later, she went on to study modern dance at the University of New Mexico where she discovered and fell in love with hip hop culture. Sonia has trained in hip hop and many street styles including Breaking and House.
Sara Felt |
Pilates
Sara Felt is the director of Pilates Performance & Rehab, Lawrence’s premier Pilates studio. She is also on the faculty of Balanced Body Education, and teaches the Comprehensive Pilates and Barre instructor training programs, as well as continuing education and specialty workshops. She holds certificates through Balanced Body, Fletcher Pilates (Towelwork®, Floorwork®, Barrework™), and Centerworks®, and has completed continuing education with numerous master instructors and first generation Pilates teachers.
Ana Glocker |
Jazz, Little Movers
Ana Glocker has trained and competed in ballet, pointe, tap, acro, hip hop, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, and musical theatre while growing up in Colorado Springs. She currently pursues a dual major in Dance and Business Management at the University of Kansas, and is a member of the KU Honors Program. Ana’s passion for teaching started at her home studio where she assisted in beginning level classes from the age of 12. Ana loves working with the students at Arts Center and cannot wait for what the future holds!
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Justin Harbough | Tap
Emily Holloman |
Justin Harbaugh is thrilled to be joining the faculty at Lawrence Arts Center! He has choreographed Lion King Jr., Little Mermaid Jr., and Pippin for Summer Youth Theater. Other credits include dancing in several productions at Music Theater of Wichita and performing for 10 years onboard Holland America Cruise Line ships. Justin is currently a full time doctoral student at the University of Kansas pursuing a degree in clarinet performance.
Emily Holloman is newly graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in dance. Born and raised in the small town of Rantoul, Kansas, Emily gained dance experience by teaching and performing competitively in Paola and Ottawa, Kansas. During her time at KU, Emily was involved in the University Dance Company, Unity Hip Hop Crew, and co-produced a student production bringing awareness to suicide prevention. Emily has won many awards for her performance and choreography. Emily is currently working under the direction of Maya Tillman-Rayton for the KC Fringe Fest and is beginning to choreograph for local studios. She is ecstatic to be teaching adult hip hop at the Lawrence Arts Center!
Donna Jo Harkrider |
Contemporary, Tap
Donna Jo Harkrider began her dance training at age 3 and has since studied tap, jazz, modern, ballet, and hip hop at various studios. She danced competitively on her high school dance team where she began to develop her choreographic techniques. Donna Jo holds a B.F.A. in Dance from the University of Kansas. She teaches tap, ballet, jazz, and modern.
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. Hilding holds a B.F.A. in Music from Louisiana State University in New Orleans (now the University of New Orleans).
Krystyna Hilding |
Ballet
Krystyna Hilding 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.
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Monika Marx |
Hip Hop
Contemporary
Monika Ivy has participated in USGF competitive artistic gymnastics through level 9, while training at Great American Gymnastics Express (GAGE) in Kansas City. She has a B.F.A. in Dance from the University of Kansas, where she was trained in ballet, modern, and jazz, and performed as a member of the University Dance Company. After graduating, Monika explored modern dance performance and choreography in St. Louis with Atrek Modern Dance Collective.
Betsy McCafferty |
Ballet, Little Movers
Betsy McCafferty started ballet in Wichita, KS as a child and continued studying as an adult under Deborah Bettinger at the Lawrence School of Ballet and the Lawrence Arts Center. She has enjoyed opportunities to dance in the Lawrence Ballet Ensemble, Choreographer’s Showcase events, and A Kansas Nutcracker. Betsy teaches preschool ballet, kinder ballet, dancing fairy tales, and beginning ballet classes at the Arts Center.
Amanda Pintore | Contemporary
Originally from Omaha, NE, Amanda Pintore is a Teaching Artist and Director focusing on movement and dance education, arts integration, and making theatre and dance performances with and for 2-5 year olds. She is the Associate Director of Performing Arts and Education at the Lawrence Arts Center. She is also the 2017-2018 Colleen Porter Resident Artist for International Performing Arts for Youth. Recently, Amanda performed and presented her research on Dance for the Very Young at the Dance and the Child International Congress in Adelaide, Australia. She received an MFA in Theatre for Youth at Arizona State University.
Juliet Remmers | Ballet, Contemporary, Little Movers, Modern Juliet Remmers grew up studying ballet at the Lawrence Arts Center. In 2013, she graduated with Highest Distinction from the University of Kansas with a BA in Dance. In 2014, she became a certified yoga instructor and returned to KU as a guest lecturer in modern dance. Juliet was a dance and vocal soloist in Jane Gotch’s “Let it Fall,” has performed in Peregrine Honig’s collaborative work, “Suites,” and has choreographed her own work, “Odd : Even,” for the Lawrence Ballet Theatre. From 20152017, Juliet appeared in the Lawrence Arts Center’s productions of Peter and the Wolf. Juliet has recently returned to Lawrence, Kansas after spending two years in Taiwan.
Ashley Sandefur | Pilates
Dance has been a part of Ashley’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 over a decade, practicing different styles of rehabilitation varying from injury rehab, injury prevention pertaining to dancers, and chronic trauma, as well as for basic well-being and health. Movement cannot be overstated 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, as well as being 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, and the mixture of the two art forms encourages a unique perspective on Irish dance.
Erin Urich | Fitness
Erin Urich has taught children’s yoga in schools, health clubs, parks, and yoga studios from Sonoma County, California to New York City. Erin completed her Kids Yoga teacher training with Kids Yoga Guide in Denver, Colorado and went on to receive her 200 hour Yoga Teacher Certification at the world renowned Nosara Yoga Institute in Costa Rica. Erin has also completed the Mindfulness Fundamentals course with Mindful Schools in Emeryville, California. Erin loves teaching yoga to children, in part due to their openness, receptiveness, spontaneity, and honesty! She has learned firsthand the incredible positive impact that yoga has on children. Most recently Erin lived in NYC where her professional focus was kids’ yoga, teaching hundreds of children at schools all across the city. While in NYC, she also worked at Karma Kids Yoga teaching classes, camps, and facilitating Kids Yoga birthday parties. Erin is thrilled to get back to her Kansas roots and sharing her passion for yoga.
Facilities & Parking 940 NEW HAMPSHIRE STREET LAWRENCE KS 66044 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 2-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. 720 EAST 9TH STREET, #8 LAWRENCE, KS 66044 Located at the intersection of Delaware and 9th, Studio 720 offers parking in front of the building along Delaware street.
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Curriculum Overview Session Classes
LITTLE MOVERS AND KINDER BALLET (AGES 3 – KINDERGARTEN) Through exploration and play, dancers experience the elements of dance, improve motor skills, gain self-control, and foster joy through movement, all of which lay the foundation for instruction in every dance form. In addition, students in Kinder Ballet are introduced to ballet etiquette and technique.
BALLET (1ST GRADE – ADULT) From beginner to advanced, classes consist of comprehensive training in classical ballet, taught by highly trained professionals and designed to train the body’s flexibility, strength, musicality and coordination. BOYS BALLET (2ND GRADE & UP) These classes are designed exclusively for male dancers. Focusing on ballet technique, students cover fundamental basics and put them into practice through traveling, balancing, and jumping. Free for boys enrolled in another dance class. POINTE (BALLET V, VI & VII) Students must have teacher recommendation and attend at least three ballet classes per week to enroll in Pointe classes. PrePointe classes begin at Ballet V. CONTEMPORARY (GRADE 1 – ADULT) Based on the philosophy that every person is an artist, these classes focus on discovery and encourage interaction, structured improvisation, balance, and conditioning within a group of social peers, as well as comprehensive training in various modern techniques. MODERN (5TH GRADE - ADULT) These classes explore movements and techniques established by the 20th century modern dance pioneers such as Jose Limón, Martha Graham, Lester Horton, and other modern dance pioneers.
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JAZZ (2ND GRADE – ADULT) Classes consist of comprehensive jazz training and include explosive leaps, isolated movements, floor work and grounded dancing. TAP (2ND GRADE – ADULT) At each level, dancers develop skills to hear and feel rhythms and timing as they learn tap technique and footwork. HIP-HOP (3RD – ADULT) Designed to be fun and energetic, HipHop combines stylized movements and complex body rhythm with witty, compelling choreography. BOYS HIP-HOP: STEP UP YOUR GAME! Designed for boys/young men in sports or in the performing arts. Students explore various styles of hip-hop including intricate percussive movements, pop, lock, break and lyrical hip-hop; this class utilizes dance technique to concentrate on agility, flexibility, balance, footwork and strength training. CULTURAL DANCE: CHINESE CLASSICAL DANCE (9TH GRADE – UP), IRISH STEP DANCE (2ND GRADE – UP) Our brand new Chinese Cultural Dance classes incorporates diverse influences from folk dance, Chinese opera, martial arts and ballet to create a unique art form. Our Irish Step Dance students learn the intricate components and technique of traditional Irish Step Dance while improving coordination, rhythm, balance, and posture. PILATES AND FITNESS (6TH GRADE – ADULT) These classes are designed to strengthen your core and balance your muscle development in order to create a strong and flexible body.
Master Classes 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 are open to non-School of Dance dancers in the surrounding region.
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. To schedule a private lesson, please speak with an instructor or contact the School of Dance director. 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.
Lawrence Dance Intensive: Summer Ballet A collaboration between the Lawrence Arts Center and the University of Kansas Department of Theatre and Dance, this two-week ballet intensive provides dancers with world-class instruction by accomplished faculty, guest artists, and choreographers in the KU dance studios. Students can choose to enroll in a one or a two-week intensive track which includes a choreography portion to be performed on the last day of camp. Through our partnership with KU, two-week Intensive students have the option of staying in Hashinger Hall during the Intensive. To apply, students must be 12-18 years old and dancing at an Intermediate/Advanced level with at least 2 years of prior dance experience.
Ballet Enrollment Requirements Ballet II-VII, Pre-Adv. Pointe
BALLET LEVEL
ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENT
Ballet II
Two Classes a Week recommended
Ballet III-IV
Ballet V
Four ballet classes a week are recommended at this level; three ballet classes a week are required. At this level, students are also encouraged to enroll in Pre/ Beginning Pointe.
Ballet VI-VII
Four ballet classes a week are recommended; three are required. Students are encouraged to cross-train by enrolling in Pilates, Modern II, and Jazz II-III to become strong and diverse dancers.
Pre/Beginning Pointe
Must be enrolled in both Tue/Thu Ballet V and Pointe Classes. Pointe instructor approval is required
Intermediate Pointe
Must be enrolled in both Tue/Thu Ballet VI/VII and Pointe Classes. Pointe instructor approval is required.
Advanced Pointe/Variations
Must be placed by an Instructor / Must also be enrolled in the preceding Ballet VI-VII class.
Two ballet classes a week are required at these levels; Ballet IV students are recommended to take three ballet classes a week. Students are also encouraged to enroll in Contemporary II and Jazz I.
STUDENTS SHOULD EXPECT TO ATTEND EACH LEVEL FOR A MINIMUM OF TWO YEARS.
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Registration & Payment How to Enroll
Dance Bundle Discounts
Students are required to enroll each semester before attending class. Class listings are available in the Catalog, or online at http:// lawrenceartscenter.org/school-of-dance. Interested students may enroll in a class in person, over the phone through a Front Desk representative, or online at our website. Each semester’s Weekly Class Schedule is available for download on our webpage.
Students enrolled in multiple dance classes receive a Dance Bundle Discount, redeemable only through the Front Desk. Dance Bundle Discounts cannot be combined with membership or senior discounts, or Financial Aid.
Class/Level Placement
To apply discount, contact the Front Desk.
(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 the 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 age-based class. See Policies & Expectations for more.
Tuition A minimum of 10% of the total tuition cost is due at enrollment as a down payment. Full payment is due before the end of the session. Payments are accepted at the Front Desk or online. The Arts Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express; please make all checks payable to the “Lawrence Arts Center.”
Financial Aid Financial aid is available on a sliding scale 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 at lawrenceartscenter.org.
2 CLASSES/WEEK = 15 % OFF TOTAL 3 CLASSES/WEEK = 20 % OFF TOTAL 4 OR MORE CLASSES/WEEK = 30% OFF TOTAL
Open Class Cards Open Class Cards are ideal for the dance student who desires greater flexibility with their dance schedule, rather than attend dance class every week. Open Class Cards may only be used in designated Open classes (marked ‘Open Class’ in the course catalog); we offer the Open Class option in select dance genres throughout the year, including ballet and Pilates. Open Class Cards may be purchased through the Front Desk for the following class time increments: 60 mins ($12); 75 mins ($14); 90 mins ($16); and Pilates ($13.50). Open Class Cards are not eligible for any additional discounts.
Transferring Classes & Credits Students may transfer between classes of the same or lesser level/age requirement at their discretion, however all transfers are subject to space availability. Payment for a current class may be applied to the desired class. There is no fee to transfer; however, account holders are responsible for paying for any tuition differences by the end of the semester. In cases where a desired class costs less than a current class, a credit will be issued to the student. Remaining credits can be used towards tuition and participation fees, and are transferable to semester classes only. Credit may not be applied to master classes, ticket sales, or School of Dance merchandise such as DVDs or t-shirt order sales.
Merit Scholarships ASSISTS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR YOUNG MEN Funded in part by a grant from the Assists Foundation, the School of Dance offers scholarships for young men 2nd to 12th grade who demonstrate an interest in the field of dance. Applicants must have trained at the School of Dance for a minimum of one year and must have a reference from a School of Dance faculty member. Scholarship awardees will meet with the School of Dance director each semester. Scholarships awarded can be used to cover 50% of dance class tuition during the Fall and Winter-Spring semesters. Deadline to apply is August 13. Interested applicants should contact Hanan Misko. CARMINE BALLERE SCHOLARSHIP Established in 1997, this scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated excellence in dance and a commitment to their craft. Encouraging the study of ballet and supporting a life-long devotion to dance, this scholarship covers the cost of four ballet and pointe classes per week and all participation fees during the Fall & Winter/Spring semesters. Awardees must be enrolled in Ballet IV-VII and serve as teacher’s assistants for one dance class per week. Auditions are scheduled during the Spring semester. Additional scholarship opportunities are announced throughout the year. Please be sure that your email address is up to date to ensure you receive scholarship audition notifications throughout the year.
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Policies & Expectations Child Pick Up Policy
Lost & Found
DANCERS 2ND GRADE & BELOW Parents must pick up their child(ren) at the door of the dance studio at the end of each class; students will be released from the studio once a parent arrives at the door. This is to ensure the safety of our youngest students. If a parent is late, their child(ren) will be asked to wait in the dance studio with an instructor until their parent arrives. After 15 minutes, an instructor or staff person will bring the child to the Front Desk, and a phone call will be placed to the parent.
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.
DANCERS 3RD-5TH GRADE For safety, the Lawrence Arts Center asks all students 3rd-5th grade to wait outside of their classroom in the main lobby of the building, to be picked up by their ride. LATE PICK-UP Parents can call the front desk at 843-2787 to let staff know that 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 fifteen 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. STUDIO 720 DROP OFF/PICK UP Students should arrive no earlier than 10 minutes prior to your class. For security, Studio 720 doors remain locked until unlocked by School of Dance faculty. Caregivers should immediately pick up their child following the end of class.
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.
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.
Communication The School of Dance relies heavily on email to communicate information to families; it is imperative that your contact information is up to date. If this is your first semester with us, please visit the Front Desk to ensure that your email address, phone number, emergency contact, and home address are correct. Secondary emails can be shared with olivia@lawrenceartscenter.
Inclement Weather Policy When Lawrence Public Schools are cancelled due to inclement weather, all Arts Center classes held between 9am and 5pm are automatically cancelled. Decisions about classes held after 5pm will be made by 2pm. Cancellations are announced via social media, our website, local radio. In cases where a class cannot be rescheduled a Make Up Card will be issued.
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• SEEK opportunities to challenge yourself and grow. • HAVE COURAGE to create and to ask questions!
Student Code of Conduct
• ARRIVE to each class on time and properly attired. • RESPECT the instructors and each other. • ENGAGE in the learning process.
Dressing Rooms
Progress Reports
Class Attendance
A private dressing room for female dancers is located just outside Studio 206. Male students should use the restroom located next to Studio 208. Lockers are available in the dressing room and restrooms.
Progress Reports are the main means of communication regarding student development. The goal of this feedback is to inspire and encourage our students to excel in artistry and technique. Detailed student evaluations by their instructors are mailed at the end of the Fall and Winter/ Spring semesters; the Winter/Spring report includes the recommended level placement for the following year.
Regular class attendance is essential for proper development and students with inconsistent attendance will progress at a slower rate. Students are expected to arrive to class on time and properly attired. As tardiness disrupts class focus and prevents proper warm-up, students who arrive late to class may be asked to observe only.
• No food or drink is permitted in the dressing areas, except for sealed water bottles. • Lockers may be used only during the duration of the student’s class and must be emptied out daily. Do not leave belongings in the lockers overnight. The School of Dance is not responsible or liable for any stolen or lost belongings. Any long term use of the lockers must be approved by the Dance Program Coordinator. Unapproved locks left on lockers will be cut off and the contents emptied. • Items left in dressing rooms will be moved to the Lost & Found.
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Class Observation Week Class Observation Week offers friends and family an opportunity to see student progress throughout the year. Observation Week is announced via email to dance families and is posted on the dance bulletin board outside the studios.
Students absent from class due to illness, school activities, and other unavoidable conflicts are asked to inform the Front Desk or Dance Program Coordinator prior to the start of class. Students will be issued a Make Up Card for excused absences only. Unexcused absences may result in dismissal from the class and a refund at the discretion of the Dance School Director. Students who have been excused from class may make up missed classes by obtaining a Class Make Up Card, available at the Front Desk, and by attending any class of equal or lower level and duration. Class Make Up Cards expire at the end of each semester.
Attire/Dress Code Students are expected to follow each dance genre’s dress code. This includes proper class attire and hairstyle. Students should have their names clearly written in both their shoes and their dancewear. Hair should be securely pulled back and away from the face for all classes. Please note class attire may or may not be used as part of the costume for the End of Year Showcases. Financial aid is available to qualifying families for class leotards/shoes. Please see the Front Desk for more information.
Ballet Attire Students enrolled in Intro to Ballet through Ballet VII are expected to follow our dress code. 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; during the summer session, any color leotard is acceptable. 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 for Girls BALLET Please refer to the Ballet Attire column for specific attire requirements. CONTEMPORARY & MODERN Black leotard (or required ballet level leotard), Black Jazz pants or Footless tights; bare feet. CHINESE CLASSICAL DANCE Any style leotard; jazz/yoga pants; soft ballet shoes required. HIP HOP Comfortable dance clothing (t-shirts, tank tops, jazz pants, etc), softsoled jazz shoes or sneakers. NO jeans. IRISH STEP DANCE Black shorts or athletic pants; solid color t-shirt; black Irish, ballet, or other soft-shoes; hard shoes optional for Level II-III students. JAZZ Black top (leotard or athletic shirt), black jazz pants, soft soled jazz shoes. LITTLE MOVERS/PRESCHOOL DANCE Black leotard and bare feet; white footless tights “Footless Dance Leggings”. TAP Black top (leotard or athletic shirt), black jazz pants, and oxford style tap shoes.
Attire for Boys BALLET Please refer to the Ballet Attire column for specific attire requirements. CONTEMPORARY & MODERN Black or white t-shirt or tank, Black Jazz pants or footless tights; bare feet. CHINESE CLASSICAL DANCE Solid color shirt; jazz/yoga pants or footless tights; soft ballet shoes required. HIP-HOP/STEP UP YOUR GAME Comfortable dance clothing (t-shirts, tank tops, jazz pants, etc), soft-soled jazz shoes or sneakers. NO jeans. IRISH STEP DANCE Black shorts or athletic pants; solid color t-shirt; black Irish, ballet, or other soft-shoes; hard shoes optional for Level II-III students. JAZZ Black top (athletic shirt), black jazz pants, soft soled jazz shoes. LITTLE MOVERS/PRESCHOOL DANCE Athletic shorts or pants, t-shirt, and bare feet. TAP Black top (leotard or athletic shirt), black jazz pants, white socks, oxford style tap shoes.
Attire for Adults We do not set dress codes for adult classes but do minimally request that adults wear shoes according to the genre of the class and clothing that allows for a wide range of movement.
KINDER BALLET Pink leotard (any style), pink ballet tights INTRO TO BALLET Pink Capezio Camisole Leotard (Style No. CC100C or CC201C) BALLET I Light Blue Capezio Camisole Leotard (Style No. CC100C or CC201C) BALLET II Navy Blue Capezio Camisole Leotard (Style No. CC100C or CC201C or CC102) BALLET III Hunter Green Capezio Camisole Leotard (Style No. CC102C or CC102 or CC202) BALLET IV Burgundy Capezio Leotard (Style No. CC102 or CC202) BALLET V Blackberry Mirella Leotard (Style No. M207LD or M201LD) BALLET VI-VII Black Capezio or Mirella leotard in any of the previously stated styles BOY’S BALLET White t-shirt, nude dance belt, black dance tights, black ballet shoes, hair pulled away from the face if needed TEEN BALLET I-II Black leotard, any style BALLET SHOES Pink ballet shoes; pink ballet tights, seamed if possible POINTE SHOES Teacher consultation is required before purchasing pointe shoes. Please schedule a fitting appointment with your instructor prior to purchase. HAIR must be in a bun, if possible.
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Where to Buy Dance Attire/Equipment IN LAWRENCE: At the beginning of each semester, the School of Dance hosts a pop-up store with various dance attire items for sale. This option is recommended for ballet, contemporary, jazz, and tap genres. Information regarding our attire sale event is delivered via email. The School of Dance also hosts a twice-yearly, donation based Attire Swap event. Information about these events is made available through email and our monthly Newsletter. IN KANSAS CITY: Dance Shoppe | www.danceshopkc.com 512 NW Englewood Road, Kansas City, MO 64118 816-455-1995 ONLINE: Discount Dance | www.discountdance.com Dancewear Solutions | www.dancewearsolutions.com
Performance Opportunities & Companies The School of Dance provides numerous performance opportunities throughout the year for students to gain stage experience and to demonstrate their training.
School of Dance 2018/19 Productions THE NUTCRACKER: A KANSAS BALLET, FALL 2018 SPRING BALLET PRODUCTION 2019 SPRING MODERN PRODUCTION 2019
Student Choreography Showcase Held each Fall, 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-Adult. Learn more online or in the Course & Events Catalog.
End of Year Showcases During the Winter/Spring semesters, youth classes prepare a dance piece to be performed in the School of Dance’s End of Year Showcases. 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 costumes assignments for each class. If necessary, students will be asked to purchase specified items. Usually, students will use part of their class’s dress attire as a base costume and/or will be provided a costume. DRESS REHEARSAL Dress rehearsals occur during class time the final week of Winter/Spring classes. It is crucial for every student to attend. GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS Graduating seniors who have been enrolled in the School of Dance for at least 2 years and are currently enrolled in Ballet V (or higher), Tap III, Modern II, and/ or Jazz III are provided the honor of performing a solo at the End of Year Showcases. If you are a senior, please contact the Dance School Director for more information.
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Volunteer Opportunities There are many ways for parents, friends and students to volunteer. If you are interested in volunteering in the School of Dance, please contact the School of Dance Coordinator, Olivia Hernández, at olivia@lawrenceartscenter.org.
Contact Us! If you have any questions, please feel free to email the School of Dance staff, call us at 785.843.2787 or visit the Front Desk. For more information about the Lawrence Arts Center School of Dance, please contact: lawrenceartscenter
LAWRENCE BALLET THEATRE
Lawrence Ballet Theatre Lawrence Ballet Theatre (LBT) is the resident pre-professional ballet company of the Lawrence Arts Center. Under the direction of Artistic Director Cynthia Crews, company members gain exposure and experience through numerous performances and working directly with professional guest choreographers. Lawrence Ballet Theatre is one of the fourteen member companies that make up the prestigious Regional Dance America/MidStates Festival. Each year, the LBT company members attend the annual RDA/Midstates Festival. The mission of Lawrence Ballet Theatre is to provide extensive training, performance opportunities, and artistic experience to dancers seeking to develop advanced experience in preparation for a professional career in dance. AUDITION AND PARTICIPATION Auditions are held each year for company members and apprentices. Members are expected to meet requirements set by the artistic director. Throughout the season, company members have the opportunity to participate in special workshops and master classes, work with professional guest choreographers, perform, and attend the Regional Dance America Mid-States Festival.
HANAN MISKO, SCHOOL OF DANCE DIRECTOR HANAN@LAWRENCEARTSCENTER.ORG CYNTHIA CREWS, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF LAWRENCE BALLET THEATRE CCREWS@LAWRENCEARTSCENTER.ORG OLIVIA HERNÀNDEZ, SCHOOL OF DANCE COORDINATOR OLIVIA@LAWRENCEARTSCENTER.ORG Check out the School of Dance on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Comment, share, tag, post pictures, and see more of the exciting things that are happening within the Lawrence Arts Center School of Dance.
LAWRENCE ARTS CENTER 940 NEW HAMPSHIRE STREET LAWRENCE KS 66044 785.843.2787
REQUIREMENTS COMPANY MEMBERS 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 per week of any style. • attend all company weekly rehearsals (4 hours per week) and additional rehearsals during production weeks. • be available to perform at scheduled events/concerts. Take one additional dance technique class per week of any style.
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