BTCA’s Upper/Pre-Professional Division offers classes for dancers (generally ages 13 and older) in Levels 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B. BTCA follows the ABT® National Training Curriculum philosophy and lesson plans that are designed for optimum physical and emotional fulfillment in this age group.
At Level 4A and 4B, all dancers have a working knowledge of all the basic vocabulary of dance and are able to correctly execute all elements with their bodies. Dancers will continue mastering elements learned in lower levels and our instructors will begin to introduce the 3 different forms of 4th position and add 2 new forms of the arabesque. Head and arm coordination with the legs, and the use of body angles and new pathways to their steps are introduced. Elongating movements from the Russian school also begin to be introduced. Some focus is also given to classical repertory and solos, and variations, partnering, and character are introduced.
At Levels 5A and 5B dancers should understand and be able to execute the main ballet positions of the feet, arms, hands and head, as well as the 5 arabesques. Correct posture, body placement when in motion, use of turn out, use of the foot, use of porte de bras and epaulement should be understood and put into practice consistently. Dancers should understand the basic rules of ballet coordination and the laws of balance and thus be able to execute the transfer of weight correctly. Instructors will continue to provide more in-depth instruction on classical repertory and solos.
At the Pre-Professional Levels 6A and 6B training continues with additional steps and strengthening exercises incorporated in an accelerated manner. Partnering work is continued and refined. If/when aptitude is evident and the prescribed course of training has been meticulously followed, most pre-professional dancers in this curriculum are ready to audition for professional jobs with ballet companies or for top collegiate-level ballet programs.
Dancers who take (and regularly attend) the suggested number/type of classes per week will receive the training and should gain the strength/ technique/knowledge necessary to be prepared to move up to the next level of training in a timely manner.
Levels 4A, 4B: 4 or more Ballet classes, PLUS 3 or more Pointe/Variations/Partnering classes, PLUS 1 or more Jazz/Contemporary classes
Levels 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B: 5 or more Ballet classes, PLUS 4 or more Pointe/Variations/Partnering classes, PLUS 1 or more Jazz/Contemporary classes