Fall 2024
Thursday Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine-arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class to share our class with each dancer's parents or guardians.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine-arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class to share our class with each dancer's parents or guardians.
Thursday
3:45 PM to 4:30 PM
3:45 PM to 4:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 1 with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Thursday
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Thursday
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 3 (with Performance Skills) (6th grade and up)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. Our session ends with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and José Limón. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. Our session ends with an Open Class for parent observation.
Thursday
6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Student Company with Choreography, Performance Skills and Coaching (Ages 13 and up who are taking Contemporary 3)
Our exciting Student Company is open to dancers ages 13 and up with a strong desire to choreograph and perform their own pieces. You must be enrolled in Contemporary 3 to be in the Student Company. An alternative to competition dance school companies, our dancers work in small groups to develop and polish well crafted dances. This in-depth experience allows students to think creatively using their own unique voices. Thought will be given to the music, design elements and emotional nuance in each dance. The LJD Student Company performs their own works at the end of the year.
Workshops in various dance techniques will be offered throughout the year to the Student Company. For example past workshops have included introductions to Graham and Duncan techniques.
The Company offers an unparalleled opportunity to work directly with acclaimed choreographer Lydia Johnson who has received acclaim from prestigious New York dance writers over many years.
“Johnson is a craftsman and a poet; her works, which stress the ensemble and attend closely to the music, have an ebb and flow in addition to a strong emotional current. The basis of her technique is ballet, and her dancers are strong. The program at New York Live Arts includes four works, two of them new, set to a variety of musical styles, from Handel to Golijovâ€
The New Yorker
Our exciting Student Company is open to dancers ages 13 and up with a strong desire to choreograph and perform their own pieces. You must be enrolled in Contemporary 3 to be in the Student Company. An alternative to competition dance school companies, our dancers work in small groups to develop and polish well crafted dances. This in-depth experience allows students to think creatively using their own unique voices. Thought will be given to the music, design elements and emotional nuance in each dance. The LJD Student Company performs their own works at the end of the year.
Workshops in various dance techniques will be offered throughout the year to the Student Company. For example past workshops have included introductions to Graham and Duncan techniques.
The Company offers an unparalleled opportunity to work directly with acclaimed choreographer Lydia Johnson who has received acclaim from prestigious New York dance writers over many years.
“Johnson is a craftsman and a poet; her works, which stress the ensemble and attend closely to the music, have an ebb and flow in addition to a strong emotional current. The basis of her technique is ballet, and her dancers are strong. The program at New York Live Arts includes four works, two of them new, set to a variety of musical styles, from Handel to Golijovâ€
The New Yorker
Thursday
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Wednesday Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. This uplifting class, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, includes movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dancing with a prop, musical interludes and dance basics. Our young dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, folk, scores from famous dance works and of course beloved children’s songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. This uplifting class, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, includes movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dancing with a prop, musical interludes and dance basics. Our young dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, folk, scores from famous dance works and of course beloved children’s songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Wednesday
4:00 PM to 4:45 PM
4:00 PM to 4:45 PM
St. Andrew's
Wednesday Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and full of joy! (Older 5s and Kindergarten)
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
Wednesday
5:00 PM to 5:50 PM
5:00 PM to 5:50 PM
St. Andrew's
Ballet for EVERYONE! (with Conditioning)
The perfect Ballet class for everyone! And now with a conditioning element! This class will be of great benefit to a range of students in addition to our 6th grade and up dancers! Athletes, actors and musicians, for example, find Ballet to be important for strength, flexibility and alignment. Ballet instills self confidence, as its structured base becomes a reliable framework to work on individual challenges! Develop a sense of ease in settings such as acting, athletics and public speaking through a basic study of Ballet. The class begins with a barre and progresses into beautiful flowing movements that really move and allow all levels of dancers to be expressive while using their technique. More advanced students will work on clarity, alignment an adding more complex versions of ballet sequences. Students will also be led through stretch and strengthening exercises for injury prevention and overall endurance.
The perfect Ballet class for everyone! And now with a conditioning element! This class will be of great benefit to a range of students in addition to our 6th grade and up dancers! Athletes, actors and musicians, for example, find Ballet to be important for strength, flexibility and alignment. Ballet instills self confidence, as its structured base becomes a reliable framework to work on individual challenges! Develop a sense of ease in settings such as acting, athletics and public speaking through a basic study of Ballet. The class begins with a barre and progresses into beautiful flowing movements that really move and allow all levels of dancers to be expressive while using their technique. More advanced students will work on clarity, alignment an adding more complex versions of ballet sequences. Students will also be led through stretch and strengthening exercises for injury prevention and overall endurance.
Wednesday
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
St. Andrew's
Saturday 9:00am Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday 11:10am Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children’s songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
11:10 AM to 11:55 AM
11:10 AM to 11:55 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet 1B with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and full of joy! (Older 5s and Kindergarten)
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
Saturday
12:00 PM to 12:50 PM
12:00 PM to 12:50 PM
St. Andrew's
Monday Ballet 1B with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Monday
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The Baird Community Center
Monday Ballet 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Monday
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
The Baird Community Center
Ballet 3 (6th-10th grade)
Building on our Ballet 2 level curriculum, while accepting some beginners, our Ballet 3 continues the focus on correct alignment while adding more complex movement sequences. The class will introduce new ballet steps and works on the concept of how these are linked together. An increasing awareness of fluid transitions is seen at this age. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. This age group is particularly able to use their own ideas and to integrate them into dances that also include ballet phrases. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Building on our Ballet 2 level curriculum, while accepting some beginners, our Ballet 3 continues the focus on correct alignment while adding more complex movement sequences. The class will introduce new ballet steps and works on the concept of how these are linked together. An increasing awareness of fluid transitions is seen at this age. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. This age group is particularly able to use their own ideas and to integrate them into dances that also include ballet phrases. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. Our fall semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Monday
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
The Baird Community Center
Nutcracker Workshops 2024
Sunday 12/22 Preschool and Kindergarten Nutcracker Workshop (3-5 years)
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes pre-ballet and imaginative sequences, as well as a craft your young dancer can take home!
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes pre-ballet and imaginative sequences, as well as a craft your young dancer can take home!
Sunday
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Sunday 12/22 Dance + Choreography Nutcracker Workshop (Grades 1-3)
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes basic intro ballet steps and creative sequences. Total beginners welcome. There will be a choreography portion where the dancers can create their own Nutcracker-inspired dance!
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes basic intro ballet steps and creative sequences. Total beginners welcome. There will be a choreography portion where the dancers can create their own Nutcracker-inspired dance!
Sunday
12:15 PM to 1:15 PM
12:15 PM to 1:15 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Sunday 12/15 Preschool and Kindergarten Nutcracker Workshop (3-5 years)
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes pre-ballet and imaginative sequences, as well as a craft your young dancer can take home!
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes pre-ballet and imaginative sequences, as well as a craft your young dancer can take home!
Sunday
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
St. Andrew's
Sunday 12/15 Dance + Choreography Nutcracker Workshop (Grades 1-3)
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes basic intro ballet steps and creative sequences. Total beginners welcome. There will be a choreography portion where the dancers can create their own Nutcracker-inspired dance!
Explore the famous Nutcracker ballet music and characters! Our young dancers will listen to each Tchaikovsky theme and dance creatively responding to the musical dynamics and story line. Small groups will perform their dances for the class! Students can dance as Clara or as Fritz or as the Mouse King or Queen!
Dance for joy with our professional dancers who will be teaching! Workshops are open to all interested children with or without ballet experience!
All dancers are welcome to wear their favorite Nutcracker-inspired outfit or simply a favorite danceable costume!
Includes basic intro ballet steps and creative sequences. Total beginners welcome. There will be a choreography portion where the dancers can create their own Nutcracker-inspired dance!
Sunday
12:15 PM to 1:15 PM
12:15 PM to 1:15 PM
St. Andrew's
Winter/Spring 2025
Thursday Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine-arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class to share our class with each dancer's parents or guardians.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine-arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class to share our class with each dancer's parents or guardians.
Thursday
3:45 PM to 4:30 PM
3:45 PM to 4:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 1 with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Thursday
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Thursday
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Contemporary/Modern 3 (with Performance Skills) (6th grade and up)
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. Our session ends with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Contemporary/Modern classes embrace a wide range of modern and contemporary modern techniques including the drop and release techniques of Doris Humphrey and Jose Limon. Current modern dance is a fusion of many movement qualities and includes a strong ballet base as well. This class uses a wonderful range of music including classical, percussion/drumming, jazz and selected pop. Our session ends with an Open Class for parent observation.
Thursday
6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Student Company with Choreography, Performance Skills and Coaching (Ages 13 and up who are taking Contemporary 3)
Our exciting Student Company is open to dancers ages 13 and up with a strong desire to choreograph and perform their own pieces. You must be enrolled in Contemporary 3 to be in the Student Company. An alternative to competition dance school companies, our dancers work in small groups to develop and polish well crafted dances. This in-depth experience allows students to think creatively using their own unique voices. Thought will be given to the music, design elements and emotional nuance in each dance. The LJD Student Company performs their own works at the end of the year.
Workshops in various dance techniques will be offered throughout the year to the Student Company. For example past workshops have included introductions to Graham and Duncan techniques.
The Company offers an unparalleled opportunity to work directly with acclaimed choreographer Lydia Johnson who has received acclaim from prestigious New York dance writers over many years.
"Johnson is a craftsman and a poet; her works, which stress the ensemble and attend closely to the music, have an ebb and flow in addition to a strong emotional current. The basis of her technique is ballet, and her dancers are strong. The program at New York Live Arts includes four works, two of them new, set to a variety of musical styles, from Handel to Golijov."
The New Yorker
Our exciting Student Company is open to dancers ages 13 and up with a strong desire to choreograph and perform their own pieces. You must be enrolled in Contemporary 3 to be in the Student Company. An alternative to competition dance school companies, our dancers work in small groups to develop and polish well crafted dances. This in-depth experience allows students to think creatively using their own unique voices. Thought will be given to the music, design elements and emotional nuance in each dance. The LJD Student Company performs their own works at the end of the year.
Workshops in various dance techniques will be offered throughout the year to the Student Company. For example past workshops have included introductions to Graham and Duncan techniques.
The Company offers an unparalleled opportunity to work directly with acclaimed choreographer Lydia Johnson who has received acclaim from prestigious New York dance writers over many years.
"Johnson is a craftsman and a poet; her works, which stress the ensemble and attend closely to the music, have an ebb and flow in addition to a strong emotional current. The basis of her technique is ballet, and her dancers are strong. The program at New York Live Arts includes four works, two of them new, set to a variety of musical styles, from Handel to Golijov."
The New Yorker
Thursday
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Burgdorff Center Maplewood
Wednesday Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. This uplifting class, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, includes movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dancing with a prop, musical interludes and dance basics. Our young dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, folk, scores from famous dance works and of course beloved children's songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. This uplifting class, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, includes movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dancing with a prop, musical interludes and dance basics. Our young dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, folk, scores from famous dance works and of course beloved children's songs. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Wednesday
4:00 PM to 4:45 PM
4:00 PM to 4:45 PM
St. Andrew's
Wednesday Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and full of joy! (Older 5s and Kindergarten)
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
Wednesday
5:00 PM to 5:50 PM
5:00 PM to 5:50 PM
St. Andrew's
Ballet and Jazz for Everyone! (Mini 9-week session for Beginner Teens and those refreshing their basic ballet)
A class designed for teens (middle and high school)! Beginners and those refreshing their basic ballet.
The perfect fun class to get moving! A basic Ballet barre to warm up and focus on placement and alignment and then an exciting jazz dance section. This class will be of great benefit to a range of students in addition to our Middle and High School teens who want to MOVE! Athletes, actors and musicians, for example, find Ballet to be important for strength, flexibility and alignment. Ballet instills self-confidence as its structured base becomes a reliable framework to work on individual challenges! Broadway Jazz dance is exuberant, fun at any level and a good workout too! The class begins with a barre and progresses into Jazz movements set to great Broadway tunes. Join the fun! Calibrated so that beginners will have fun and dancers refreshing their Ballet or Jazz will be able challenged in a noncompetitive way. The class is also perfect for theater kids who need a basic understanding of Broadway sequences! A noncompetitive atmosphere makes the class low stress.
This mini winter session of 9 classes runs from January 29-March 26. Then we will run a spring session of 9 classes from April 2-June 4.
A class designed for teens (middle and high school)! Beginners and those refreshing their basic ballet.
The perfect fun class to get moving! A basic Ballet barre to warm up and focus on placement and alignment and then an exciting jazz dance section. This class will be of great benefit to a range of students in addition to our Middle and High School teens who want to MOVE! Athletes, actors and musicians, for example, find Ballet to be important for strength, flexibility and alignment. Ballet instills self-confidence as its structured base becomes a reliable framework to work on individual challenges! Broadway Jazz dance is exuberant, fun at any level and a good workout too! The class begins with a barre and progresses into Jazz movements set to great Broadway tunes. Join the fun! Calibrated so that beginners will have fun and dancers refreshing their Ballet or Jazz will be able challenged in a noncompetitive way. The class is also perfect for theater kids who need a basic understanding of Broadway sequences! A noncompetitive atmosphere makes the class low stress.
This mini winter session of 9 classes runs from January 29-March 26. Then we will run a spring session of 9 classes from April 2-June 4.
Wednesday
6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
St. Andrew's
Saturday 9:00am Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Saturday
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday 11:10am Creative Ballet (ages 3.2 - 5 including Kindergarten)
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Our Creative Ballet offers a unique curriculum which allows for both a joyous experience as well as basic dance skill development. These uplifting classes, for 3-5-year-olds and Kindergarteners, include movement stories, creative games, structured free dance, dance with a prop, show and tell, musical interludes, dancing the roles in story ballets, and ballet basics. Each day will have a surprise "treasure box" interlude with a special activity! In keeping with our fine- arts approach, our youngest dancers will experience dancing to a wide range of music including classical, great ballet scores, contemporary classical, folk and of course beloved children's songs. Our fall semester culminates in an Open Class for parent observation.
Saturday
11:10 AM to 11:55 AM
11:10 AM to 11:55 AM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet 1B with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Saturday
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
St. Andrew's
Saturday Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and full of joy! (Older 5s and Kindergarten)
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
"Ballet for Lively Fives: Creative and Full of Joy" is designed for young dancers who have advanced beyond introductory ballet classes. The class blends imaginative sequences with fundamental pre-ballet techniques, offering a dynamic and engaging curriculum tailored to their developmental stage. Through creative storytelling and playful choreography, children explore foundational ballet moves, fostering their creativity and expressiveness. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to build on their previous experience, allowing them to deepen their understanding of ballet while celebrating the joy of movement. The semester concludes with a class for parent observation.
Saturday
12:00 PM to 12:50 PM
12:00 PM to 12:50 PM
St. Andrew's
Monday Ballet 1B with Choreography (1st-2nd grade)
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Ballet 1B with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Monday
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
The Baird Community Center
Monday Ballet 2 with Choreography (3rd-5th grade)
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Our Ballet 2 with Choreography includes the study of developmentally appropriate ballet basics such as ballet terminology, the positions of the arms and legs, musicality and rhythm. Correct alignment and posture are addressed increasingly at these stages. The class allows our young dancers the chance to explore today's increasingly contemporary ballet vocabulary. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. Our winter/spring semester culminates in an Evening Showing of Student Choreography at the Woodland!
Monday
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
The Baird Community Center
Ballet 3 (6th-10th grade)
Building on our Ballet 2 level curriculum, while accepting some beginners, our Ballet 3 continues the focus on correct alignment while adding more complex movement sequences. The class will introduce new ballet steps and works on the concept of how these are linked together. An increasing awareness of fluid transitions is seen at this age. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. This age group is particularly able to use their own ideas and to integrate them into dances that also include ballet phrases. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Building on our Ballet 2 level curriculum, while accepting some beginners, our Ballet 3 continues the focus on correct alignment while adding more complex movement sequences. The class will introduce new ballet steps and works on the concept of how these are linked together. An increasing awareness of fluid transitions is seen at this age. All of our classes include a choreography section during which our students can use their own ideas to create dance phrases of their own. This age group is particularly able to use their own ideas and to integrate them into dances that also include ballet phrases. Ballet has changed and is no longer focused exclusively on story ballets. This class offers a wonderful chance to dance to a wide range of music including classical, contemporary classical, jazz as well as selected pop songs and folk. The semester culminates with an Open Class for parent observation.
Monday
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
The Baird Community Center