Curriculum

What is Centre de Danse?

Centre de Danse is a full-service classic ballet school located in the heart of Georgetown, just two blocks west of Wisconsin Avenue at 3254 Prospect Street, NW. Centre de Danse offers afternoon and evening ballet classes for children and adults of all skill levels. The school teaches ballet to students who range in age from 5 to 66. Group classes and private lessons are available far all levels, including pre-pointe and pointe.

Children and adult classes are on-going. Students may enroll at any time during our school year. Children’s classes run in a 12-class series for $338.00. Adult classes are available singly for $36.00 each and in series of four or eight classes ($125.00 and $225.00 respectively)

Theresa Kramer founded the school, which is now in its 40th year, in 1983. Ms. Kramer is a Georgetown native, whose classical training and professional experience have taken her around the globe to perform with and study with such ballet luminaries as Arlett Castiner, Jose Ferran, Dame Margot Fonteyn and Rosella Hightower. Ms. Kramer returned again in 1999 and 2004 to the European School, and the Civic Ballet Company.

Who studies ballet?

While the environment of ballet movements appeals to all ages, one’s motivation for the study of ballet varies according to the stage of one’s life. Ballet helps develop physical coordination and concentration in children, while adults may be more likely to appreciate ballet for flexibility, stretching, and the movement the dance form requires. Some students may have special physical interests, even if they are adults who have not danced for years. Ballet is the perfect activity for those who enjoy intensive approaches to exercise, but may not enjoy or have access to the athletic club atmosphere. Centre de Danse also welcomes athletes whose sport depends on the physical arm and leg movements of classical ballet, i.e. ice skaters.

Why should children and adults learn ballet?

When taught correctly, one can only benefit in all areas of physical life. Ballet develops the coordination of the mind and body. It can improve and correct poor posture and flexibility, as well as strengthen the whole body. Ballet builds confidence and promotes self-discipline. It also promotes a calming sense of movement, rhythm, and appreciation of music.

Curriculum & Goals

The staff strives to help each student develop a love for the classical dance art form. We believe it greatly enriches the student’s life and education.

The purpose of Centre de Danse is not only to teach ballet, but to encourage the children to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of this performing art form. In addition, the Centre de Danse makes every effort to assist each child in realizing the full bloom of all the talent and creativity that each child has planted within him/her. Each child is taught to be self-appreciating and to develop grace, poise and self-assurance; each child is given an opportunity to cultivate, enhance, and demonstrate the aforementioned qualities. Each child is inspired to achieve this mastery by performing in public a difficult but important step in their development.

Pointe requires at least two years of preparatory study. The students should be at least 11 years old, and have both good body placement and control. A minimum of two ballet classes per week are required for pointe work.

The benefits of studying ballet include improving and correcting poor posture, strengthening muscles, improving coordination, rhythm and movement. Ballet also helps build confidence, promotes self discipline, and fosters music appreciation

Child/Teen Class Schedules

Child Tuition rates 2023-2024

Single Trial Class	$36
Primary 12 classes	$308
Levels I-II, 12 classes	$338
Advanced, Pre-Pointe & Pointe	$338
Private Lessons – hourly	$149

Please note:

• There is a non-refundable registration fee of $86 per student.
• Tuition must be paid by the first class of each session. If paid after the second class, there will be a $39 late charge.
• Tuition is payable by personal check or cash. No out-of-town check or credit cards are accepted.
• Headbands are on sale in the office for $12, latex exercise bands for $16.
• Class observation, photos, note-taking and recording are prohibited. At the end of each term parents will be invited to watch a class.
• Private lessons are only offered to students who are currently enrolled at Centre de Danse.
• Parents may observe classes three times a year: before December break, before spring break, and before the end of the school year.

Adult Class Schedule

Beginner	Monday	6:45-8:15 pm
Beginner	Tuesday	6:45-8:15 pm
Beginner Pointe	Monday	8:30-9:00 pm
Advanced Beginner	Thursday	7:00-8:30 pm

Adult Tuition Rates

4 classes (1 class/week)	$125
8 classes (2 classes/week)	$225
12 classes (3 classes/week)	$300
Professional Rate	$33
Single Trial Class	$36
Beginner Pointe Class	$18