ACRO-DANCE
Acrobatic Dance is a beautiful fusion of classic dance technique* with the precision and athleticism of acrobatic/tumbling skills. Using the highly acclaimed “Acrobatic Arts” program, students will progress at their own pace through levels where they learn the necessary exercises and procedures to safely master tumbling skills that can be incorporated seamlessly into dance choreography. They will gain the grace, flexibility, balance, and strength that makes a beautiful dancer. These classes will foster confidence, body awareness, and the value of hard work and dedication. A foundation in acrobatic dance will greatly benefit students in all areas of dance! Please read our Acro Parent Packet for more information about our program.
Grace Christian Dance Company is certified through Acrobatic Arts. Students will learn under the direct supervision and spotting of Mrs. Black, Miss Autumn or Miss Porcari, all certified Acrobatic Arts Instructors. Student teachers will assist with the non-tumbling aspects of class.
All new acro-dancers begin in PRIMARY, regardless of age or previous experience with dance or gymnastics. If you are an acro-dancer returning after taking the summer off, you will start the year with a new card on your level. If you have taken more than the summer off, contact us for placement.
*The dance technique portion will be taught in Ballet and Company Classes and the acrobatic elements are taught in our Acro-Dance classes.
2024-2025
SEASON SCHEDULE
Acro-classes take place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Click the button above for specifics.
- September 16 – December 5
- No classes on November 28 (Thanksgiving)
- January 8 – May Showcase (TBA)
- There will be a one week break due to rehearsals for the Company production (TBA)
- June-August (TBA)
- Acro-dancers lose flexibility and strength when there are long breaks. For this reason, Acro-Dance runs all year long. Dancers taking extended breaks (summer) will need to retest the skills for their level. Dancers taking a year off will need to review by starting back at the Primary Level. All new Acro-Dance students start in the Primary class and move to Level 1 as soon as they have mastered all Primary skills8
DRESS CODE
- Black cap-sleeved leotard. Front and back should have a scooped neckline with no additional adornment and no attached skirt
- Black capris that fit tightly and come to 1-2 inches below the knee
- Hair is completely secure for the entire class in a tight bun. Usually a lower bun, or one on either side of the head is best. For dancers with shorter hair, contact us to discuss options. Dancers not in an acceptable hairstyle will need to skip the tumbling part of class for safety reasons.
- Bare feet
- Two acro-blocks used for stretching (Levels 1 and above)
Company dancers can wear the official uniform. Studio dancers are welcome to order pieces from Tutu, but have the option of ordering similar pieces on their own. Examples are linked above.
The black leotard and capris will be the base used for the May Showcase. We will provide embellishments to those pieces. All costuming pieces are property of GCDC and are to be returned at the end of the showcase.
TUITION AND FEES
YEARLY REGISTRATION FEE:
There is a family registration fee to participate in all studio classes including Acro-Dance, Ballet, Contemporary and Recreational. This class has a $25 fee due every August or at the time of registration. You pay this fee only once each year and it covers all studio classes taken. If a Company dancer is adding this studio class to their schedule, their Company registration fee covers all additional classes as well. Your spot in a class is not guaranteed until we receive your non-refundable registration fee.
TUITION:
45 minute classes (PRIMARY) – $50/month ($45 cash/check)
60 minute classes (LEVELS 1+) – $55/ month ($50 cash/check)
Company dancers can add this class on for a reduced rate of $25/month. NOTE: May-August, when GCDC Company classes are not offered, regular rates apply to Company dancers.
There is no additional charge for the Aerial/Back Handspring Drills class open only to Levels 4-8.
SHOWCASE FEE:
There is a family showcase fee of $25 for dancers to participate in the May Showcase and includes four tickets to the event. Additional tickets can be purchased at $5/seat until sold out.
LATE FEES:
Tuition is due by the 7th of every month. There is a fee assessed to late tuition:
Paid on day 8-14: $5 late fee
Paid on day 15-21: $10 late fee
Paid on day 22 and beyond: $15 late fee
If you need to delay payment for any reason, please discuss this with us ahead of time.
Tuition can be paid onsite, online, or by mailing your payment. You can also set up an automatic withdrawal from your bank account.
ACRO BLOCKS FOR LEVELS 1+
Dancers in Level 1 and above are required to bring 2 acro-blocks to class. These should measure 4x6x8 or 4x6x9. They are often referred to as yoga blocks.
MAY SHOWCASE
Acro-Dancers have the opportunity to showcase their skills at a May Showcase. This showcase will take place at a small rented venue (TBD). Along with our Acro-dancers, this showcase may also feature dancers in our Ballet, Contemporary and Recreational classes. The showcase is an informal presentation of what the girls have been learning in class. It will be approximately 45 minutes in length. There is a showcase fee of $25/family, which includes 4 tickets. Additional tickets can be purchased for $5/seat until sold out. This fee is due the first class in April.
