The Apprentice Level (ages 5-7) provides an encouraging and positive atmosphere which allows children to learn technical skills while working on attention and musical awareness. Students are given the opportunity to learn about stage direction and terminology. The performance choreography for the Apprentice Level is age-appropriate so students can develop self-confidence in their achievements. Roles can include: Nutcracker angels, mice, Arabian slaves, gumdrops; Cinderella garden bugs; Wizard of Oz munchkins, crows, and woodland creatures.
The Junior Level (Ages 8-12)
Students at this level are developing poise, flexibility, strength, discipline and self-confidence. The RRCA Dance Academy follows the Cecchetti method of ballet training which provides the student with a solid foundation and understanding of classical ballet technique. Students at the Grades I and II level are taking a minimum of two ballet classes per week. Level III students must take three classes per week and are enrolled in pre-pointe and beginning pointe classes. Some of the Company roles associated with the Junior Level are: Nutcracker: Clara, clowns, party girls, soldiers, and garland flowers; in Cinderella: fairy sprites, clock elves
The Senior Level (Ages 13 and up)
The ballet training at the Senior Level encourages technical precision, agility, and fluidity of movement. Female students are working on pointe which demands technical and physical strength and flexibility in the feet as well as an overall excellent body condition and strength. Choreography, Variations, and Partnering Classes may be taken at this level. Students are working on the Cecchetti examinations: Grade IV, Elementary (V), Intermediate (VI), and the Advanced (VII). The major roles can include: Nutcracker: Snowflakes, Snow Queen, Act II Variations, Flower Petals, and Dewdrop; Cinderella: Season Fairies, Cinderella, the fairy Godmother, etc.