CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
Children are the future of dance. It is through them that the love and disciplines of this art continue. Our classes provide proper training, a proven track record of excellence, and high value for your investment.
EARLY YEARS
AGES 3-6
Mighty Mini Movers, ages 3 (potty trained)-5
At LDI we understand that even our tiniest dancers are capable of achieving big goals. Under the guidance of caring professionals with special training in early human development, our Mighty Mini Movers learn fine and gross motor skills, cross coordination, linking steps together, rhythm, and muscle memory. They engage in singing, exploring spatial awareness, and diversifying their movement by using colorful props, special songs, and creative imagery. Of equal importance is classroom emphasis on social-emotional learning, peer relationships, and developing a healthy sense of self-awareness. Our nurturing instructors create a caring environment that provides structure while allowing for ample freedom and creativity.
Pre Ballet, ages 6-7
Boys and girls are introduced to movement concepts, physical and mental intention, spacial and body awareness. A variety of music and props stimulate children’s creative spontaneity and enhance the learning experience. Students at this age begin to develop respect for themselves and others.
LEVEL 1- TRAINEE
AGES 6- 18
BALLET
Our ballet training program for ladies and gentlemen encourages self worth, creativity, and discipline. Students receive age-appropriate technical training and are guided to reach their highest potential. LDI focuses on building a solid, anatomically-responsible foundation with an emphasis on intention, musicality, dynamic movement, and love for dance.
TAP
(PRE-BALLET- LEVEL 6)
Explore a genre of collaboration between dance and the art of creating music – Tap Dance. Our Tap programs explore the foundations and fundamentals of tap with focus on correct foot technique and placement. LDI’s Tap education supports versatility for our dancers with exposure to musicality, rhythm, syncopation, stage presence, balance, and coordination.
JAZZ
(LEVELS 2-6)
LDI’s Jazz programs provide students with a progressive and supportive path to learning jazz foundations. Programs are designed to energize and educate with exposure to various forms of Jazz including, broadway, upbeat, Latin, and commercial.
PERFORMANCE ENSEMBLE
(LEVELS 2-6 )
In Performance Ensemble students learn choreography from different genres (ballet, jazz, contemporary, broadway, etc.) and experience additional performing opportunities throughout the season, both in studio and within our community.
CONTEMPORARY
(LEVEL 3 and 4)
With a strong focus on the application of modern, jazz, and classical techniques, LDI’s contemporary program offers a creative and dynamic outlet to our students in addition to providing an excellent and vital cross-training tool for the versatile dancer.
ADULT
A 5 minute drive from the I-15 in Poway will take you to LDI where we offer dance and fitness classes for all ages; a place where everyone can explore the benefits of movement. Come as you are and train with experienced professionals who are passionate about teaching students of all ages and abilities.
TRAINEE PROGRAM
(Ages 11 and up)
The LDI Trainee Program provides a nurturing environment, name recognized training, and proven track record is San diego's choice for dancers looking for a program that will prepare them for life in the field. The program provides 19+ hours a week of training in Ballet technique, pointe work, variations, cross training, mind body work, modern dance technique, composition and rehearsals.
The program allows more time for the dancer to explore and broaden their potential as an artist. The trainee schedule is a powerful experience that affords the student everything needed to move forward toward a career in dance or gain acceptances to the nations most competitive dance programs and colleges. Check out our student success page for more info.
Trainees receive vitally important knowledge and advice on both mental wellbeing and physical health from industry professionals.
Advice and assistance with audition/college preparation, including resume building, cover letter, and video submission.
Access to world-renowned dance photographer, Angela Sterling for all of their photography needs.
Performing opportunities in December and April as well as other community engagements throughout the year.
MODERN
(LEVELS 5 and 6)
Dancers focus on classical modern technique from the lineage of Lester Horton. The Horton technique is a codified style of dance that focuses on strength, lines, and musicality most famously seen in the work of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Dancers work through the Fortifications and Preludes of the technique, to foster a dancer’s sense of rhythm, core strength, flexibility, and attenuation, among other traits.
The Horton technique acts as a wonderful complement to classical ballet training because it draws on the same tenants of athleticism and alignment while providing exploration of new areas such as floor work, undulations of the spine and hips, and parallel positions.