Class Descriptions - Please see below for our current class offerings! We have a variety of dance classes in many ages and levels. Something for everyone!
Dress code - Here at CPAA the dress code is an important part of a student's dance education. Along with proper classroom etiquette, following the dress code show's respect for the art of dance, the teachers, and the students themselves.
Looking for a local dance store? Dancer’s World in Hamden has both an online store with our dress-code that you can buy from online as well as a storefront to visit.
Hair: All classes should wear their hair pulled back out of the face in a secure bun or ponytail.
Clothing: All classes (except where noted) should wear a black leotard and pink tights for girls and black pants or shorts with white or black shirt for boys.
Shoes: All ballet classes wear pink ballet shoes for girls, black for boys, tan jazz shoe, all recreational tap classes wear black tap shoes (buckle up to age 8, ties starting at classes for age 9-11).
Tights for performances: Please note that for picture day and the annual recital we will be using Bodywrappers brand in Theatrical Pink, Jazzy Tan and Black depending on class and costume for uniformity. A specific list will be released for those special events in the coming months. (Ballet/Tap Combo classes for age 5 and under will wear Bodywrappers Theatrical Pink for both of their dances).
Tiny Dancers - Age approx. 1-2 with parent
An introduction to dance and creative movement for our youngest dancers while giving some bonding time for parent and child in a fun and nurturing environment. This class is currently “just for fun” and will not be dancing in the recital just yet, however we know this will be a great prep class for future years when we get to see them on stage!
Dress code: Leotards are encouraged for the little ones, but anything non-distracting and comfortable to dance will be fine! Dress code: is not strict for adult classes. Dancewear or athletic wear!
Ballet/Tap and Ballet/Tap/Jazz Combination Classes - Age approx. 2--6
A one hour introductory dance class containing ballet, tap, and creative movement. Young dancers will learn the basic steps while learning how to follow direction and imitate movement in a positive environment. Engaging music is used to get these little dancers inspired to move. The use of props such as Twinkle bears and hula hoops, enables the young dancers to use their imagination, creativity and most of all, have fun! All dancers will perform two dances in our Annual Recital and will have two costumes.
Dress code note: These little ones have a little more flexibility for leotard colors in their dress code and are welcome to wear ballet colors, such as a pink leotard in additional to the traditional black leotard.
Ballet/Tap/Jazz Combination Classes- Age approx, 6-8
A 1.5 hour age specific class containing ballet, tap and jazz/creative movement. The purpose of the class is to introduce young dancers to the three styles of dance and inspire movement and creativity within a positive environment. Dancers will also learn basic steps and terminology in all three styles. We use of fun, age appropriate music engages the young dancers’ minds and bodies. All dancers will perform three dances in our Annual Recital and will have three costumes.
Ballet, Tap, Jazz Classes age approx. 8-11
One hour classes in ballet, tap, and jazz. Dancers will be learning more in depth steps and terminology in all three styles. We use fun, age appropriate music to engage the young dancers’ minds and bodies. All dancers will perform one dance and one costume per style chosen in our Annual Recital.
12 & Over Ballet, Tap, Jazz and Lyrical, Modern/Contemporary Classes
Dancers will be learning more in depth steps and terminology in both styles. We use of fun, age appropriate music to engage the young dancers’ minds and bodies. All dancers will perform one dance per class taken with one costume for each for our Annual Recital.
Hip Hop Classes
Our Hip Hop classes focus on learning the fundamentals of hip hop and street jazz technique. This high energy class is great for dancers looking for a fun and energetic dance outlet! Dancers will perform one dance in our Annual Recital and will have one costume.
Dress code: Athletic Wear (Nothing too-distracting). Shoes: Black Hip Hop Sneaker (street sneakers that have already been used outdoor are not be allowed in the classrooms)
Acro
Our Acro classes focus on learning the fundamentals of acro. This high energy class is great for dancers looking for a fun and energetic dance outlet that includes acrobatics! All dancers will perform one dance in our annual recital and will have one costume.
Dress code: Black Leotard or biketard, shorts or leggings. Shoes: your feet!
Adult Classes
Dancing is for all ages! We currently offer tap class for adults. Whether you are advancing, brushing up on your skills, or trying it for the first time, we love to have adults learning and having fun in these fun upbeat classes.
Dress code: is not strict for adult classes. Dancewear or athletic wear!
