The dance program at Sadler Means YWLA is a year-long fine arts course.

The program focuses on widening students’ perception of dance and allowing them to try different styles of dance. This class aims to develop students’ creativity, flexibility, coordination, strength, endurance, self-confidence, as well as a knowledge of dance history. The curriculum includes ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, choreography and much more. 

Dance students are expected to participate in various performances throughout the school year, in addition to annual end of the year spring show.

Dance students can receive a P.E. credit for the active participation.

Dance Courses: 

Beginning Dance:

• Students will focus on exploring movement and building basic dance skills/techniques to begin their dance education. The curriculum will include: Elements of Dance, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Musical Theatre, and Choreographic Processes

Intermediate Dance:

• Students will learn and develop kinesthetic awareness, proper body alignment, physical strength, flexibility, endurance, and care of the body while exploring expressive movement through dance technique. The curriculum will include: Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Musical Theatre, and Choreographic Processes

Purple Gems (7th and 8th grade) (Audition Required):

• The purpose of the Purple Gems is to provide dancers with the following: performance opportunities throughout the year (in addition to the Fall and Spring Show), dance training through conventions and workshops, build technique skills, and dance artistry. Auditions are held in the spring each year and open to students who will be entering 7th or 8th grade for the following school year. The curriculum will include: Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Pom, Musical Theater, and additional choreography/dance production elements throughout the year.