At Center Stage Dance Studio we offer a competitive option for dance training. Ensemble Team dancers are expected to compete in 2 competitions per year, with an optional third at the teacher’s discretion, and depending on level. Competitions can be a wonderful outlet for children who are interested in the performing arts. These events offer dancers the chance to see the other creative ideas being developed in the dance world. It helps to build self-esteem, good sportsmanship and friendships that last. Being part of a dance competition will engage students in a responsible, motivating and challenging way. There are 4 Ensemble teams at CSDS. Placement is dependent on both age and level of ability. Placement in the Ensemble is by invitation only. If a dancer or parent is interested in learning more about being considered for an Ensemble Team, please contact us to set up a meeting.
Petite Ensemble Team (CSPE)
Grades 1 and up. General age requirements for this team are ages 7 – 10. Students in the Petite Ensemble study 3 classes; Ballet, Jazz and Tap. Having a strong foundation in these basic dance forms gives these young talented dancers the groundwork to excel as they mature as dancers in the future. Petite Ensemble Team students compete 2 times between March and May.
Junior Soloists ready to perform their solos at Starbound, 2011.
Junior Soloists ready to perform their solos at Starbound, 2011.
Junior Ensemble Team (CSJE)
Students in the Junior Ensemble study a minimum of 4 hours/week. Required classes include a 75-minute Ballet Class, a 75-minute Jazz class, and a 1-hour tap class. A fourth class is necessary to fulfill the required study hours for this Ensemble and students may choose to study Lyrical, Modern, Hip Hop and/or Pointe if recommended. In addition, all Junior Ensemble students are invited to participate in our annual Opening Number and must enroll in a weekly 1-hour strength & conditioning class that will take place on Saturdays starting in January before Opening.
Youth Ensemble Team (CSYE)
Students in the Youth Ensemble study a minimum of 5 hours/week. Required classes include a 90-minute Ballet Class and a 90-minute Jazz class. A 3rd, 4th or 5th class may be necessary to fulfill the required study hours for this Ensemble and students may choose to study Tap, Lyrical, Modern, Hip Hop and/or Pointe. In addition, all Youth Ensemble students are invited to participate in our annual Opening Number and must enroll in a weekly 1-hour strength & conditioning class that will take place on Saturdays starting in January before Opening.
Dance Ensemble Team (CSDE)
A few Senior Ensemble dancers preparing for "Genesis" at Showstoppers, 2011
Students in the Dance Ensemble represent the highest course of study at CSDS and stand for the strong technique & ability of our training. Dance Ensemble members study a minimum of 6 hours/week. Required classes include a 90-minute Ballet Class and a 90-minute Jazz class. Additional classes are necessary to fulfill the required study hours for this Ensemble and students may choose to study Tap, Lyrical, Modern, Hip Hop and/or Pointe. In addition, all Dance Ensemble students are invited to participate in our annual Opening Number and must enroll in a weekly 1-hour strength & conditioning class that will take place on Saturdays starting in January before Opening.
Repertory Work
Jonathan Leonard & Ariana DiBiasio perform their repertory duet, "The Promise" at Showstoppers.
In addition to the group routines that Ensemble students learn & perform at competition, they are given the opportunity to sign up for “reps”, i.e. solos, duos, trios, small groups etc. These routines are choreographed over the course of 1 – 2 private rehearsals over the Christmas break. For 5 weeks after the choreography is set, students are paired with other soloists to rehearse & prepare the piece for competition. Generally, these pieces are not performed in the recital and serve as an additional outlet for creativity, passion and performance for students who wish to perform outside of their group. Pricing for repertory work is as follows:
- Solo: $110
- Duo: $90/dancer
- Trio: $80/dancer
- Small Group (4 – 6): $70/dancer
Please note that the fees above are for choreography and rehearsal only. Competition entry fees are not included.
View More Classes:
- Creative Dance (ages 2.5 – 4)
- Kindercombo: Ballet/Tap (ages 5 & 6)
- Ballet (Grade 1 and up) and Pointe (by recommendation only)
- Jazz (Grade 1 and up)
- Tap (Grade 1 and up)
- Modern (Ages 9 and up)
- Lyrical/Contemporary (Ages 9 and up)
- Hip Hop (ages 9 and up) and Kid Funk (ages 6 – 8 )