Upper School

- B A L L E T -

​Ballet III: (Ages 12-14) This level continues to build strength, flexibility, and refined ballet technique. Dancers will expand their vocabulary with more complex steps and combinations, focusing on control, alignment, and musicality. At this stage, it is recommended that students attend two ballet classes per week to support consistent growth.

Ballet IV: (Ages 12+) At this level, dancers continue to refine body alignment, strength, and the quality of movement. Emphasis is placed on improving technical precision and expanding the movement vocabulary with more challenging combinations. Students will also focus on enhancing their artistic expression and performance skills. (A minimum of two ballet classes per week is required.)

Ballet V: (Ages 12+) This class continues to build on the foundations of ballet technique, with a strong focus on refining alignment, posture, and precision. Dancers will master more complex combinations, challenging transitions, and intricate footwork while deepening their understanding of musicality and performance quality. Emphasis is placed on developing a stronger connection between the body and the floor, as well as improving overall strength and flexibility. (A minimum of two ballet classes per week is required.)

Intermediate/Advanced Ballet: (Ages 15+) Designed for the dedicated dancer, this class challenges students to refine their technical skills through advanced steps and more intricate combinations. The focus is on perfecting core elements of ballet, such as alignment, turnout, and controlled movement, while building strength and stamina. Dancers will be pushed to achieve higher levels of precision, fluidity, and expression in both class work and performance.  (A minimum of three ballet classes per week is required.)

Pre-Pointe: Designed for dedicated ballet students who are eager to begin their pointe journey, our Pre-Pointe class focuses on building the strength, alignment, and technique required for safe and successful pointe work. This class emphasizes core stability, ankle strength, proper turnout, and posture through targeted exercises and ballet fundamentals. Students will be evaluated individually to ensure readiness for pointe shoes, with a focus on injury prevention and long-term success. Pre-Pointe is a vital bridge between flat ballet work and the elegance of dancing en pointe.
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Pointe: (Ages 12+) These classes are for the dancer who is ready to add pointe work to their training. Students will utilize previously learned ballet technique while working in pointe shoes. Classes include barre exercises, center floor work, and across the floor combinations. There is a focus on strengthening the feet and ankles. (Pointe classes are by teacher placement only.)
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​Adult Ballet: (Ages 16+) Whether you’re returning to the barre or stepping into the studio for the first time, our Adult Ballet class offers a welcoming and encouraging environment for dancers of all levels. This class blends classical technique with gentle conditioning, focusing on posture, flexibility, coordination, and musicality.No leotard required—just a love for movement and a willingness to try something new. Come build strength, improve balance, and discover the beauty of ballet in a supportive, no-pressure atmosphere. All levels welcome. No prior dance experience necessary.

Boys Ballet: (Ages 10+) The masculine side of Ballet. Male dancers play an integral role in the dance world. Our Boys Ballet class teaches male students respect, discipline, and male-specific technique. Each class begins with pushups then focuses on big jumps, multiple turns, and mastering the Art of Dance through a male perspective. This class also prepares male dancers for Pas De Deux, (dance of two) in which male and female dancers partner for technical duets and tremendous lifts.
To enroll in any Upper School Ballet classes, please call 865-309-4372 and we will help you register for the class that is the perfect fit for you!

Please note that ages for classes are only a general guideline. We will ensure proper class placement.
- I R I S H -

​Irish I: (Ages 9+) An exciting introduction to the vibrant world of Irish dance! Known for its precise footwork, high-flying jumps, and still upper body, Irish dance is both challenging and exhilarating. This beginner-level class focuses on building a strong technical foundation while keeping things fun and full of energy. Perfect for dancers ready to take their first steps into Irish tradition!
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Irish II: (Ages 11+) For dancers with prior experience, this class builds on the foundational skills learned in Irish I. Students will continue developing speed, precision, and strength, while learning more complex steps and combinations. Irish dance’s signature style—quick feet, powerful jumps, and poised posture—takes center stage. (Enrollment is based on instructor approval.)

Irish III: (Ages 13+) This advanced class focuses on elevating soft shoe technique, speed, and complexity. Dancers will master intricate footwork, develop greater precision and control, and perform challenging choreography with energy and style. Emphasis is placed on musicality, performance quality, and refining the signature elements of Irish dance. (Enrollment is based on Instructor approval.)

Hardshoe: (Ages 13+) This class focuses exclusively on the Hardshoe style of Irish dance. Dancers will develop strength, timing, and rhythmic precision as they create dynamic percussive patterns with their feet. Hardshoe dances are full of the sounds of heels clicking, toes tapping, and feet stomping! (Enrollment is based on instructor approval.)

- T A P -
Tap I/II: (Ages: 9+) Building on the basics introduced in Little Tappers, this class helps young dancers grow in both skill and confidence. Students will explore more advanced tap combinations while continuing to develop rhythm, coordination, and flexibility. Creativity and fun are at the heart of this class, along with a focus on classroom etiquette and teamwork as dancers learn to support and encourage one another.

Adult Tap: (Ages 16 +) This upbeat class focuses on foundational tap technique, rhythm, musicality, and self-expression. Dancers will learn classic Broadway-style routines and choreography set to music from both timeless and contemporary movie musicals. Whether you're new to tap or returning after some time away, this class is a fun and creative way to move, connect, and make some noise—together!
- C O N T E M P O R A R Y -

Contemporary I: (Ages 9-15) This foundational class explores innovative ways to move, focusing on body control, creativity, musicality, and release-based technique. Dancers will be encouraged to express themselves in new and dynamic ways, developing a deeper connection between movement and emotion. (Enrollment in a ballet class is also recommended, as it provides essential technique and support for all styles of dance.)

Contemporary II: (Ages 12+)  For the developing dancer ready to deepen their contemporary training. Contemporary II builds on the fundamentals with more intricate phrase work, greater focus on musicality, and increased use of improvisation and floorwork. Dancers will refine their understanding of release-based technique, explore emotional expression through movement, and grow their versatility as performers. (Enrollment in a ballet class is also recommended, as it provides essential technique and support for all styles of dance.)

Contemporary III:  (Ages 12+) An advanced contemporary class for dancers ready to be challenged both technically and artistically.  This fast-paced class features complex choreography and dynamic movement rooted in a fusion of modern styles, release technique, and musicality. Dancers will push boundaries as they explore a deeper connection between music, emotion, and storytelling—developing a unique, expressive voice through movement.  (Enrollment in a ballet class is also recommended, as it provides essential technique and support for all styles of dance.)

Intermediate/Advanced Contemporary:  (Ages 12+)  Designed for the experienced contemporary dancer, this class builds upon a strong foundation in both ballet and contemporary technique. Dancers will explore a fusion of styles and methodologies inspired by pioneers such as Martha Graham, Lester Horton, Erick Hawkins, José Limón, and the innovative work of Pilobolus—blended with Ashley Cunningham’s own creative voice. The class challenges dancers to refine their technique, expand their movement vocabulary, and connect deeply with musicality and storytelling. (Enrollment in a ballet class is also recommended, as it provides essential technique and support for all styles of dance.)
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​​- H I P  H O P -
Hip Hop I: (Ages 9-12) Step into the rhythm and own the floor! This high-energy Hip Hop class combines the freshest street styles with classic grooves—and adds a bold twist with breakdance elements. Dancers will learn isolations, footwork, freestyle, and dynamic combos, while also getting a taste of top rocks, freezes, and basic power moves.It’s all about expression, confidence, and building skills in a fun, encouraging atmosphere. Come for the beats, stay for the moves—and get ready to turn the studio into your stage.

Hip Hop II: (Ages 12+) The Hip Hop II class is designed for dancers who are ready to push their skills, refine their style, and bring more precision and performance to their movement. Building on foundational hip hop and breakdance elements, dancers will learn more intricate choreography, faster footwork, and sharper musicality—plus level-appropriate breakdance tricks and transitions.
Expect to train harder, move with purpose, and grow as both a dancer and performer. This class is all about commitment, creativity, and confidence—because the next level is waiting.

- JAZZ -

Jazz Progressions, Leaps, and Turns I: This class introduces dancers to the foundations of jazz technique in a fun, upbeat environment. This class focuses on clean lines, musicality, coordination, and stylized movement, all while building strength and flexibility. Dancers will explore across-the-floor progressions, center combinations, and train in the leaps and turns Jazz is known for!*Students must be enrolled in Ballet II or Ballet III to register for this class, as ballet training supports the technique required for jazz movement.
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Jazz Progressions, Leaps, and Turns II: This class focuses on expanding a dancer’s skill set with more complex combinations and refined execution. Dancers will work on advanced turns, dynamic leaps, and intricate progressions that challenge both precision and performance.*Students must be enrolled in Ballet III or higher to ensure the strength and technique necessary for this level.