Ballet

At the Mandy Fouracer Dance Academy (MFDA), we offer enriching ballet classes  from age 3 years, designed to inspire a lifelong passion for dance. Our curriculum uniquely combines the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus with elements of the prestigious Russian Vaganova method, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in ballet technique and artistry.

Our approach emphasizes the importance of proper dance technique, helping students develop strength, flexibility, and grace. Our passionate and qualified instructors enable  a nurturing and inspiring environment where young dancers can explore their creativity while mastering the fundamentals of ballet.

Whether a beginner or an aspiring performer, students at MFDA will experience the joy of ballet and cultivate their skills in a supportive community. Join us to embark on an exciting journey through the world of ballet!

Preschool to Primary ballet classes introduce young children to foundational ballet movements and steps, focusing on the development of coordination, balance, and musicality. At this stage, props are often incorporated into lessons to enhance the students’ enjoyment and engagement while simultaneously aiding in the refinement of their technique. These props, such as scarves, ribbons, or small balls, not only provide a fun and interactive way to connect with the music, but also help children improve their spatial awareness, timing, and physical expression. This playful approach fosters a love for dance while laying the groundwork for future ballet training and performance.

Grade 1 Class introduce students to the foundational principles of the Vaganova method, focusing on building strong posture, alignment, and coordination. At this level, young dancers begin to develop an understanding of basic ballet technique through simple barre exercises, centre work, and across-the-floor combinations. Emphasis is placed on musicality, balance, and clarity of movement, helping students establish a strong technical foundation and a love for the art form. These classes are a great introduction to the Vaganova method, setting the stage for future development.

Grade 2 Class build on the skills learned in Grade 1, with a greater emphasis on strengthening technique and improving fluidity of movement. Students begin to execute more complex steps and combinations at the barre and in the centre, focusing on increasing their flexibility, strength, and precision. Attention is given to body placement and control, as well as the development of rhythm and musical expression. This level serves as an important step toward refining ballet technique and prepares students for more advanced levels of the Vaganova method.

Grade 3 Class challenge students to refine their technique and artistry while increasing the complexity of their movements. At this stage, dancers are introduced to more intricate barre exercises, pirouettes, and jumps, working to develop greater strength, stamina, and control. Focus is placed on improving both the precision of technical movements and the fluidity of transitions between steps. Dancers are encouraged to deepen their understanding of the Vaganova style by expressing emotion through their performance while maintaining discipline in their technique. This level prepares students for advanced training and serves as a critical step toward higher levels in the Vaganova method.

Modern Contemporary is an exciting progression for dancers who have built a foundation in Modern Jazz and are ready to explore a more expressive and dynamic style. This class blends the energetic, sharp movements of Jazz with the emotional depth and fluidity of contemporary dance. Students will refine their technique while diving deeper into floor work, improvisation, and more complex choreography. The focus is on expanding movement vocabulary, improving flexibility and strength, and encouraging individual artistic expression. As dancers move beyond the structured steps of Jazz, they explore the freedom of contemporary style, allowing them to convey emotion and tell stories through movement.

The Intensive Program is tailored for dedicated students who are eager to elevate their dance journey by committing to additional training. This program provides an opportunity for students to significantly advance their skills and take their development to the next level. It consists of two key components: a 90-minute ballet class every Wednesday and one mandatory recreational class of the student’s choice on either Tuesday,Thursday or Saturday. While the program requires both a time and financial investment, it offers a highly rewarding experience for those ready to challenge themselves and grow as dancers.