CLASSES

Preschool and Kindergarten:
These classes give the young dancer an outlet for expression and knowledge of tempo, levels, energy and shapes. Imagery such as colors, emotions and nature help excite the young dancer’s imagination. Costumes and props are a special treat. Pre-ballet and dance skills will also be introduced. Tap skills are introduced in Kindergarten.

Ballet:
All students are encouraged to study the foundation of dance technique. Nothing is better for developing coordination, balance, strength and flexibility. Knowledge of ballet steps and terminology is essential to the study of jazz/hip-hop and modern dance.

Tap:
Develops rhythmic skill and coordination. This is a favorite with children because they get to make noise with their feet! The students will be exposed to musical theatre, swing, boogie-woogie, and be-bop music. Tap is included in 1st/2nd grade ballet. In the 3 through 6th grade Tap and Jazz are combined.

Hip Hop/Jazz:

Contemporary music makes this course extra fun while the dancer gains coordination and performance style. Recommended for age 10 and up. Knowledge of ballet is helpful.

Modern Age 12 - adult:

Various modern dance techniques will be taught as well as movement improvisation. Concepts introduced include space, rhythm, levels and dynamics. The students will be encouraged to develop their own choreography. A knowledge of ballet is helpful.

Pointe Age 11 and older:

This is what every little ballet dancer dreams of: to seemingly float above the ground. However, pointe should be only studied if the student is sufficiently strong in ballet technique. Not all students should or will be allowed to study pointe. Pointe students must be enrolled in a ballet class.

Lyrical/Jazz Age High School and older:

Utilizing Jazz, Ballet and Modern techniques this class will give the experienced dancers an opportunity to add expressive style to their dancing. This class will allow the students to express emotion through their body and develop a more powerful stage presence. A knowlege of ballet and or modern is required.

Ballroom/Social Dance: Recent television, motion pictures and musical trends have renewed interest in the social dances which include Cha-Cha, Foxtrot, Rhumba, Swing, Tango, Waltz and others. Non-dancers and dancers alike can experience the grace, challenge and fun of ballroom dance. For more information about the beginning class on Monday nights at 8:00pm or private lessons contact Robin at 336-877-4979.

Tae Kwan Do Age 8 - Adult, female and male: This Korean martial art is regarded as the world's most popular in terms of number of practitioners. Known for its emphasis on kicking, It combines self-defense, sport and exercise. Tae Kwan Do has something to offer every student regardless of gender, age or athletic prowess. For information about the Tuesday/Thursday classes at 6:00pm contact Billy at 828-719-5760 or go to http://taekwondoworks.weebly.com

Capoeira Age 7 - adult: Originating in Brazil, Capoeira is a blend of non-contact martial arts and dance. Participants take turns playing Brazilian instruments, singing and sparring. This excellent form of exercise is marked by fluid acrobatic play, extensive use of groundwork and kicks. For more information go to www.capoeiraaa.com

Tumbling Age 5 - teen: If your child is bouncing around the house, this class is just what your bundle of energy needs. Your little tumbler will learn the correct, and safe, way to execute a handstand, cartwheel, back walkover and more. For information about the Friday 3:30 class contact Jeff at 828-264-2849.

PERFORMANCES
Northwestern Studios gives your dance student the opportunity to perform in two separate high-quality productions. The studio pulls out all the stops when it gives two performances of a full-length ballet. These have included “Sleeping Beauty”, “Cinderella” and “La Fille Mal Gardee. The jazz & tap students strut their stuff twice in the “Jazz & Tap Revue”. These are scheduled for one of the last two weekends in May.

NORTHWESTERN STARZ Competition Team
The Starz consistently win top honors at regional and national dance competitions. They also attend dance conventions and study with nationally recognized dance professionals. Competition dancers are invited from the dance classes based on outstanding dedication, attitude and performance ability.