Class Description: "This problem solving class will help transition from beginner to intermediate level by studying specific steps, jumps, and turns."
Time: Sundays 5:30-7:00pm
Often times when I take intermediate-advance-level dance classes, I feel that I don't really have time to focus on the placement of my body because the classes move at a faster pace and the combinations are more complex. That is why I find it useful to take a beginner-level class once in a while so I can polish my technique.
Originally, Marsden's "Missing Links" series was only supposed to be a 5 week long special workshop, but the class has gotten such positive feedback that Ballet Arts decided to continue the series. It is now in its 9th week. Although the class is aimed for beginners, it was evident that there were advanced students taking the class too. The class begins with a ballet barre, and although the combinations are pretty straightforward, one still gets the sense that they are training hard (closing in a perfect fifth position sixteen times in a row seemed harder than I had remembered!). At the center, Marsden gives an abbreviated adagio and then moves on to the core of the class--connecting the missing links.
Each class is focused on breaking down three steps: a tour (turns), a grand allegro, and a petite allegro (jumps). For example, one class Mardsen would teach pique tours, jete sur le coup de pieds, and tour jetes. Mardsen analyzes the movements and teaches the most simplified version first. He then gradually adds on different components such as where the head should spot and the position of the arms.
Again, this class is great for beginners because Marsden really dissects the movements. At the same time, advanced students can take this class to go slower and hone their technique!
I love going to Ballet Arts because the atmosphere there is very welcoming. Unlike at Steps on Broadway or Broadway Dance Center where there are many dance studios, Ballet Arts, located in City Center, only has one giant (and gorgeous) studio. The people who work or take dance at Ballet Arts are all very warm and friendly, and often times there are free healthy snacks to enjoy in the lounge area outside the studio!
Tamara Karsavina in class at the Kirov in 1920:
Ballet Arts
130 West 56th Street
6th Floor
Between 6th and 7th Avenues
New York, NY 10019
Tel. (212) 582-3350
Directions: Take the N, Q, R to 57th Street/7th Ave and walk towards City Center
Single Class--$15 (if you only take barre, it is $12)
*Single classes must be payed for in cash!
Pointe Class (1 hour long)--$12
[10 class cards also available]
Click Here for Full Class Schedule: http://www.balart.com/Fees_Office.htm
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