All Classes are customized to the interests & needs of your school, troop or organization
                                                                           Master Classes/Workshops* Available

a    SPANISH FLAMENCO-Beginner through Adv.-Intermediate ~ ages 10-Adult [1-2 hrs/on-going]Students are introduced to the basics of proper alignment, arm placement (braceo) and footwork (zapateado). Authentic dances from Spain (Flamenco emphasis) are explored while learning about the history and culture. Degree of difficulty progresses based on skill level. Castanets (castañeulas) are demonstrated and/or taught 
a     BALLET- Creative Movement through Advanced Technique ~ ages 5-Adult [1.5-2 hrs/on-going]
Creative Movement allows children to develop body awareness and coordination while exploring, imagining and relating to things & the world around them. Beginner Level focuses on alignment, basic body positions, foot articulation, general strength & simple coordination while being introduced to French terminology. Intermediate Level introduces the theory behind the technique as well as musicality & artistry. There is a heightened degree of difficulty and lengthier exercises. Advanced Level focuses on refining the technique and artistry of more complex exercises while honing focus and stamina. Pointe/Variations emphasizes proper training, technique and how to avoid pointe-related injuries. Variations are selected from standard, classical repertoire- suggested for the more advanced dancer
a    JAZZ/MUSICAL THEATRE DANCE STYLES- Beginner through Advanced ~ ages 10-Adult [1.5-2 hrs/on-going]Focuses on agility and coordination, stretch and strength conditioning, rhythmic awareness & stage presence. Class consists of a thorough isolations warm-up, floor stretch/conditioning, kicks, leaps & turns across the floor and a breakdown of a short dance phrase. Beginner Level focuses on core basics and building blocks of jazz and/or musical theatre movement. Intermediate & Advanced Levels build confidence & hone technical styles while focusing on performance/audition presence and acting intention while dancing. Styles incorporated and offered include Luigi & Simonson to DeMille, Fosse, Bennett & Robbins. Original Broadway choreography can be taught to cultivate a higher appreciation of these icons and their rich history
a   MODERN- Beginner through Intermediate ~ ages 10-Adult [1-2 hrs/on-going]
Class sessions can range from movement exploration with use of imagery, sound and/or props to improvisation or technical exercises & phrases. Focus is on alignment, use of breath, spacial awareness, fall & recovery and use of dynamics. Format & degree of difficulty is determined by age and skill level. Limón, Horton and Simonson influences are incorporated
a   TAP-Broadway Style- Beginner/Intermediate ~ ages 10-Adult [1-2hrs/on-going]Focuses on foot articulation, coordination, rhythmic acuity and stage presence. Traditional skills such as basic shuffles & f-laps to time steps, waltz clogs, essence step, cramp rolls and maxi ford can be introduced or honed. Original Broadway choreography can be incorporated
a   STRETCH & TONE ~ ages 10-Adult [1 hr/on-going] Focuses on core strength, toning, flexibility and use of breath by utilizing techniques found in pilates, yoga, t'ai chi and relaxation exercises. Classes in thera-band exercises are also offered
 a   THEATRE GAMES & ACTING IMPROV FOR YOUNG PEOPLE ~ages 8-16 [1 hr/on-going]Students are guided through a series of fun physical & vocal warm ups and creative acting exercises that are not only an asset to the young performer, but also cultivate concentration, listening and memory skills, improve coordination and awareness of physicality & surroundings, and allows for teambuilding, imaginative problem solving and increased self-confidence. Stage terminology is also incorporated
a    “ANATOMY OF A SONG”- How to ACT the Words you are Singing ~ ages 12-Adult [1 hr/on-going]The focus of this class is to give performers a vehicle in which they can systematically approach the deliverance of a song
a      AUDITION TECHNIQUES AND RÉSUMÉ PREPARATION FOR DANCERS AND ACTORS ~ ages 15 to Adult [1 hr]Focuses on proper résumé formatting and content, how to prepare for a photo shoot, audition etiquette and how to combat nerves 
*Please note that guest teaching or on-going classes & residencies may be arranged.
*Workshops in Spanish Dance may be arranged to last a full school day, incorporate an assembly 
lecture-demonstration and include live music based on availability and fees. For more information or to inquire about booking, email ADVdance@aol.com or call 860-693-3290. 

HERE'S WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
"I wanted to tell you again what an incredible teacher of flamenco, dance, and life you are!  I am always impressed with your knowledge and insight, your way of explaining poses, steps and corrections, and your ability to make your students feel good with their progress. I've been in teaching for a long time and you are simply, top tier, one of the best!!"
Adult Spanish Flamenco Student

“Señorita -all the children raved about your dance and they loved being able to try it!” 
Linda Powers, 5th Grade Spanish Teacher

“She was very willing to work with us to develop a comprehensive lesson that would enrich the students’ knowledge of the time period. She was flexible with scheduling and…provided students hand outs about the dance and had video clips that further discussed it…They were engaged and were able to get a sense of this era [the 1920's] through dance, something that I would not have been able to provide them without Alison’s help.”
Marta Raviele, US History Teacher

"Thank you so much - not only for the continued support but for the wisdom and passion you have instilled in me through these past few years. I am, as you have said you are, a product of my teachings, and the teachings I have received from you have been irreplaceable. You've been a great teacher of dance, but also a lot more of life."
Emma Brodginski, Musical Theatre Major, Class of 2010