What to Do When You’re Running Late for Dance Class As a dance parent, you know the struggle of rushing through traffic to get your little one to dance class on time. And while my daughter is only 4, I understand there’s an unspoken etiquette to follow, even at her young age. Being late to …
Discovering the Rockettes: A Dance Tradition at Radio City Music Hall
In This Article: The Beginnings of the Rockettes The Rockettes are iconic not only for their dazzling performances but also for their rich history. Founded in 1925 in St. Louis by Russell Markert, the Rockettes initially went by the name “Missouri Rockets.” The inspiration behind their creation came from the desire to create a synchronized, …
Mobile Dance Programs for Preschoolers: The Benefits of Preschool Dance Right at Your Child’s School
Introducing young children to dance is one of the most joyful experiences for both teachers and families. Preschool dance offers a unique opportunity for little ones to explore movement, creativity, and coordination, all while having a blast. For busy parents, a mobile dance program—where dance teachers bring the class directly to preschools, daycares, or similar …
Women in Leadership in the Dance World: Alicia Graf Mack Becomes Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Women in Leadership in the Dance World: Celebrating Alicia Graf Mack’s Historic Appointment In the dance world, where artistry meets leadership, women are stepping into prominent roles, breaking barriers, and shaping the future of the field. One such trailblazer is Alicia Graf Mack, who has recently been appointed Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance …
Is Majorette Dance Appropriate for Young Dancers?
Should Young Kids Learn Majorette Dance?Majorette dance has captivated audiences for decades, particularly through the vibrant performances of HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) dance teams. Known for its high energy, charisma, and confidence, majorette dance is a powerful art form that holds a significant cultural legacy. But as the style gains popularity in youth …
Dance Class Lesson Plan: Holidays Around the World
Grade Level: K-5Duration: 5 days (45-minute sessions)Objective: Students will explore holiday traditions from various cultures through dance, culminating in a final project showcasing different holiday-inspired dance movements. Supplies GA State Dance Standards Lesson Overview Day 1: Introduction to Holidays Around the WorldDay 2: Exploring Movement – Diwali and IndiaDay 3: Exploring Movement – Hanukkah and …
Once a Dancer, Always a Dancer: Embracing the Dancer Within
To all the dancers who have stepped away from the studio, hung up their pointe shoes, or traded in their leotards—this one is for you. I have so many friends I’ve trained with, from those early days as a little kid to college and even the professional world, who eventually decided to move on from …
The Best Holiday Gift Ideas for Teachers: Dance Teacher Edition
It’s almost that time of year again! As both a dance teacher and a dance mom, I know the holiday season can be a challenging one when it comes to teacher gifting. For parents, it’s not just about picking out gifts for family and friends—there’s a long list of teachers, coaches, and mentors who play …
Are Private Dance Lessons Worth the Money?
Private dance lessons can be a significant investment, and many parents and dancers wonder if they’re really worth the cost. Private lessons can offer focused attention, personalized feedback, and the chance to grow as a dancer at a faster pace. But before diving in, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and decide if …
How to Encourage Your Frustrated, Flustered, and Overwhelmed Dance Students
One of the hardest things for me as a teacher and educator is watching my students get frustrated in class. I design my lessons to push them and challenge them, but my goal is never to discourage. Dance should be a source of joy, growth, and confidence. When I see a student feeling frustrated, flustered, …