PHILOSOPHY,
DRESS CODE, & EXPECTATIONS

The program at Performing Arts 5678 program is performance-based, designed to help students become more confident, healthy, and strong, and the best performers they can be. We are devoted to providing our knowledge and passion to students, whether they are dancing as a fun, leisure activity or want to pursue more intense experiences. The Dance, Acting, and Musical Theatre curriculum is heavily influenced by stage and screen music (Broadway, Disney, pop music), focusing on Jazz, Tap, Ballet, and Musical Theatre. Age appropriate movement, costumes, and material is held as a top priority. 

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ATTIRE

Dance

Hair: Hair should be securely pulled back from the face (ex: ponytail).

No headbands, as they are distracting and need continuous adjustment. 

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The following attire is required for dance classes:

Ballet:  Tights, Leotard, Pink Ballet Shoes

Tap:  Tights or Dance Pants, Leotard, Tan Tap Shoes* (*Tap shoe style varies depending on age/class. Under "More" on our website, click on "Shoes, Attire, & Accessories" to see styles our students will be using.   In general, Girls: TAN tap shoes.  Boys: BLACK tap shoes.)

Jazz & Musical Theatre:  Tights, Leotard, Girls: Tan Slip-On Style Jazz Shoes, Boys: Black Slip-On Style Jazz Shoes

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Acting

Students must wear clothing that is comfortable to move in.  If girls wear dresses or skirts, small shorts underneath is recommended.  Safe shoes like sneakers should be worn at all times if in the outdoor theatre (ie: no flip-flops, crocs or other shoes that easily slip off).  

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Dance is a fantastic form of exercise, but if taught incorrectly, it can lead to many serious, physical health problems. Learning step-by-step provides a solid foundation and correct form before students try more complicated steps, which is why it is so important for students to enroll in the proper class - not only based on age, but also based on experience/ability.

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Please Note:  Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, if/when the State of NJ instills certain protocols, we will adhere to them.  Ie: Social Distancing, Masks, Indoor vs Outdoor, etc...

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CLASS ETIQUETTE & BEHAVIOR

We emphasize proper class behavior and performance etiquette and respecting fellow students. All participants are expected to behave appropriately. Disruptive behavior will be addressed according to the following protocol:

1. Verbal reminders given during class

2. Parents/Guardian contacted & asked to give reminders

3. Parents/Guardian asked to stay during class to attend to their child if needed

4. Child will be asked to withdraw from the class (Prorated tuition refund will be issued, based on the # of attended classes. Refund requests should be made via email to: performingarts5678@gmail.com

 

COMMUNICATION

E-mail is an effective way to communicate information regarding all elements of the classes:  Dress Rehearsal Information, Performance Information, Weather-related Cancellations/Make-Up Information, etc.  Please be sure Performing Arts 5677  and instructor(s) have an e-mail address which you check regularly. Each family should also provide a Cell number (and, if applicable) home number.  ADD PERFORMINGARTS5678@GMAIL.COM to your address book so our messages do not go to spam.

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ATTENDANCE

Attendance is important. Enrollment in an ensemble-orientated class is a commitment, not only for your child, but to all the other students enrolled. Each student learns from the others and benefits from the collective experience of having all participants present. One student’s absence means the that person falls behind, and the attending students have to repeat and review material rather than moving forward. That said, if your child is too ill to attend school, of course we do not expect them to attend class. Extenuating circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Students who miss classes over the course of the year (especially during the months of April and May) may be asked to enroll in private lessons at the instructor’s availability to catch up on missed material or risk exclusion from the performance.  Please remember, some more advanced classes may not benefit from private make-up lessons, as performance material is very much a group effort, and choreography may require entire class attendance.  If you anticipate absences, please reach out to your instructor to decide how to proceed.

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GAINING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH THE PERFORMING ARTS

According to Americans for the Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for promoting arts and arts education, students who are involved in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, four times more likely to participate in math and science fairs, and three times more likely to be elected to class office.  Shy children gain confidence to stand up in class, read aloud, and solve math problems, making the entire school experience less stressful.  The boost in self-esteem also translates to children gaining confidence to try new things, such as entering a Science Fair, joining a club, and later, go on college and job interviews.

 

Dance reinforces math skills.  Students count in sets, subtracting and dividing, make geometrical shapes with group formations.  In Acting, performers work together creatively.  Actors learn dedication, coordination, and to how to focus - skills that translate into greater academic understanding.

 

Problem Solving, Advanced Thinking, and Planning Skills learned via the performing arts are vital to Academic success.  Building cultural bridges, forge friendships with other kids who might not normally be in their circle, bringing greater understanding and communication to our community.

Our dance and acting classes are very much a team effort - whether it’s sharing creative ideas, assisting with props or costumes, or reviewing material, we work together. While friendly competition can light a fire within, respecting and supporting one another is key.  Like many things in life, without full cooperation of the class as a whole, an end result will never be reached.