First and foremost, Eastern Connecticut Ballet is a school; one whose expert faculty is 100% dedicated to the development and growth of its students. The curriculum taught at ECB is based on a strong classical technique, emphasizing the energy and movement essential to meet the demands of today’s classical ballet and contemporary companies. Every student at ECB will receive a quality education that will challenge them to reach their potential.

Young Children’s Program

Ages 2 - 8

Teachers incorporate magical props, games, and stories to teach age appropriate dance and social skills. They challenge students with activities that encourage the development of fine and gross motor coordination, locomotive movements, musicality and the ability to follow directions. Children master basic ballet positions and steps and as they progress, teachers increase the complexity of the learning tasks.

All of this is accomplished in a fun, warm and stimulating atmosphere that encourages creativity and self-expression, fosters confidence and builds success.

Upon completion of the classes children are equipped with a wonderful foundation for future achievement within ECB’s progressive training program.

Pre-Professional Program

Level 4
Fourth year students learn more complicated steps and sequences. Girls prepare for pointe work. Teachers ask for musicality and artistry. Students attend 3 classes per week.

Level 5
Fifth year students strive to perfect the steps they have been taught, and girls begin work on pointe, strengthening their legs and feet. Students attend 4 classes per week.

Level 6 and 7
Intermediate and advanced levels will continue perfecting their technique and building endurance. Working on variations from famous ballets helps students develop their artistry and musicality. Level 6 students attend 4 or 5 days per week. Level 7 students attend 5 or 6 days per week.
 

Modern Division
ECB’s modern dance department is led by former José Limón company member, Libby Nye. Dancers are privileged to study the technique and works of American modern dance pioneer, José Limón. With ECB faculty members, Cristin Cawley and Barbara Parish, and with summer guest artists, dancers study additional styles as Taylor, Horton and Graham.

Enrichment Program
ECB offers a full complement of classes to tempt dancers with a wide range of interests. These include jazz, tap, Zumba, Pilates, conditioning, adult ballet and jazz, and Natural Stretch.

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