ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern
Imperial Classical Ballet
The roots of Imperial Classical Ballet stem from the early days of the ISTD and the first written syllabus in 1913 which was based on the teaching of the French School from the Paris Opéra. The syllabus has now evolved to promote the English classical style and address the changing needs of Ballet dancers today.
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Our Ballet students have had opportunities dancing for the English Youth Ballet as well as Competing at and becoming successful finalists at the prestigious ISTD Ballet Awards at junior level.
Tap Dance
This has evolved as an American dance form, popularised throughout the world, with debate about its origins coming from African dance, Irish dance and/or clog dancing. The dancer uses their feet to strike the floor, beating out different rhythms, with dancers wearing tap shoes which have small metal plates on the toe and heel to give the distinctive sound. Tap dance is a theatrical art form often seen on stage in musicals.
Modern Theatre
Modern Theatre dance is a rhythmic dance style which originated in America before travelling to the rest of the world. It is often seen on the stages of musical productions and is known for its theatrical qualities. The style uses travelling steps, high kicks, leaps and turns which all need strength and flexibility. This is a highly energetic dance style.
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A highlight of the calendar is the Janet Cram Awards. The Junior, Senior and Premier awards are for boys and girls from 8 - 16 years old who are eligible to compete. We audition students who have excelled in exams and have been awarded High Distinctions in the relevant grade.
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) Ballet, Tap & Modern syllabus’ are offered at Pixie Lott Performing Arts Academy. We offer classes from Preliminary (age 4+) to Advanced 2 depending on ability. Examinations are offered to students who meet the required standard. Grade 6 and above in all theatre genres earn points which can be added to UCAS when applying for Universities
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We also offer a Ballet Pointe class for students who are grade 5 and above.