Rafael Delgado

Figuring out which dance school to choose can be a complex and often confusing process.  In the United States literally anyone can open a dance school regardless of their qualifications or lack thereof.  Distinguishing a school that teaches proper technique from those that offer what can be called “edu-tainment” can be frustrating.

Summer programs are a vital component of an excellent professional dance training. Read for a list recommended summer dance programs.    

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BALLET CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE
 
Proper classroom etiquette is essential to the education and training of a ballet dancer.  The following rules are universal and are followed by all major ballet programs and professional companies.  Additional rules may also apply.  
 

• Wear appropriate dress code as specified by the school
• Hair is to be pulled back off face and neck in a neat bun.
• No jewelry (except for small earrings) is to be worn to class or rehearsals.
• Elastic is to be sewn on shoes.
• No gum chewing, eating, drinking or smoking is allowed in the studios.
• Talking, leaning on barre, yawning or leaving class before is over is not acceptable. If a student needs to leave before class is over, he/she must ask to be excused by teacher.  Please do so discretely so as not to disrupt class.
• Arrive early at least 15 minutes before class. If late, wait for the exercise in progress to be over before entering the studio.  Students arriving late may be asked to observe instead of participate.
• If you are going to be absent call the office so that the teacher can be notified before class begins.  (If a make up class is available for your class level, arrangements can be made then.)
• Stay in the back of the room if you do not know the combination.
• Eyes and attention must always be on teacher.
• Be appreciative of corrections and apply them. 
• Students will progress only as fast as they can take corrections.
• Students should never stop in the middle of an exercise unless an injury is sustained.
• Do not talk back to teacher regardless of the situation.  It is improper to question the teacher's authority. If you have a problem, talk to the teacher after class.
• Be kind to your classmates. Displays of temper and rudeness are unacceptable.   Absolutely NO gossip!!!!
• After class applaud pianist and teacher and thank teacher for class.
• Keep your things neat in the dressing room and use the trash can.
• Because of the sweaty nature of class, please bring a towel to class and use it!
• Do not wear your ballet shoes outside the studio and wear street clothes over uniform when leaving the studio.
• Please label belongings, including shoes, and do not bring valuables to the studio!