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Classical Ballet Program

Floor work.
Division II

The Hartt School Community Division (HCD) Dance Department offers a core program of classical ballet training for students aged 5 through high school. Additionally, several performance opportunities are available to HCD students each season. 

The goal of the program is to provide a solid foundation for future collegiate studies and/or careers in the field of dance. Students are encouraged to enroll in supplemental classes in the Youth Program, which are available to all students as elective components.

New families should begin the placement process by completing and submitting their Placement Form to dancedesk@hartford.edu. Registration links will be provided following this process.

2024-2025 Class Schedules

Classes meet at the Handel Performing Arts Center (35 Westbourne Parkway, Hartford, CT 06112). This programming is subject to change.

Level A

Level B

Level C 

Level C 

Level 1 Amber

Level 1 Red

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

Level 5

Level 5 Repertory Ensemble

Level 6

Level 6 Repertory Ensemble

Dancers

The Classical Ballet Program is divided into three divisions

The divisions represent important curricular milestones, much like elementary school, middle school, and high school. 

It is our goal to support all students in attaining the highest levels of mastery and achievement. Every effort is made to place students in the level which will provide them the most benefit. Each student progresses through the training program at their own pace.

Levels A, B, and C focus on preparing the body and mind for ballet technique. Intensified exercises are introduced to increase muscle strength and coordination. Class dates and times can be found for our dance programs here.

Levels 1-3 build on the skills learned in Division I. Students are introduced to a more structured ballet training regimen, designed to prepare them for more demanding physical and technical work. Students are required to attend classes multiple days each week. The growing vocabulary and additional training time demanded in Division II represents a significant progression in the development of a dance student. Pointe work is introduced to the ballet curriculum in Level 3. Class dates and times can be found for our dance programs here.

Division III is designed to provide more advanced students with the comprehensive program necessary to support them in reaching their potential, both technically and artistically. Lessons increase in length and frequency. Pointe work is practiced more frequently for the ladies. Character, modern and hip-hop dance classes are added to the ballet training curriculum. Class dates and times can be found for our dance programs here.

Classical Ballet Program students are strongly encouraged to supplement their ballet training with additional classes outside of their required program of study. These additional classes will help students build strength, gain coordination, and accomplish a greater sense of musicality.

Click here to determine what supplemental classes you are eligible for.

Advancing through the divisions

Class level placements and promotions from level to level are made by HCD faculty and the Director of Dance, and are solely at their discretion. Every level has a corresponding curriculum in which each student must achieve in order to advance to the next level. Achievement Days are held annually to evaluate the work of individual students and classes. Following the Achievement Days, evaluations are submitted for each student to communicate their assessment and provide the upcoming summer and academic year placements.

Students enrolled in the Classical Ballet Program are required to take the entire program of study offered at their placement level. All new students must complete a placement form. All new students ages 8+ must take a placement class in addition to completing the placement form.

Placement Form

Virtual Dance Bag

Visit the Virtual Dance Bag to find programming, calendars, dress code, and more!

Our daughter has studied at the Hartt School Community Division Dance Department for over seven years and we are so grateful for this unique and special place. The teachers and staff are passionate about dance, give their students strong and focused training in dance technique, and help them to develop their artistry and expression. Our daughter feels very encouraged, supported, and cared for by her teachers. She is full of joy at Hartt and has so much fun.

Carrie Rusconi, HCD Parent

Level 6 Video Gallery

Questions?

Please call us at 860.768.6000 or e-mail us at dancedesk@hartford.edu.

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