PreBallet
Ages: 4-5
Our Preballet class is a stepping stone to formal ballet instruction and is designed to help children transition from creative movement to more structured ballet classes. We emphasize the joy of dance, while simultaneously laying a solid foundation of discipline, concentration, and respect for the art form.
In this class, your child will be introduced to basic ballet movements and terminology in a fun, playful, and creative manner. Our skilled instructors use engaging music, imaginative games, and props to teach coordination, rhythm, and basic ballet positions, all while fostering a positive and supportive environment.
At this level, we start focusing more on musicality and timing, which are essential to dance. We encourage our little dancers to start interpreting music through movements and help them understand the relationship between music and dance.
The Preballet Dance Class also promotes physical strength, flexibility, and balance. It enhances gross motor skills, and we pay special attention to correct posture and alignment to ensure the physical well-being of our students.
This class is not just about dance, though. It’s about nurturing self-confidence, discipline, and creativity. It’s about fostering an appreciation for music and arts, teaching patience, and helping them learn to work in a group.
Whether your child is a first-time dancer or has previous experience, the Preballet class offers a supportive and enriching environment that will help them grow and develop a lifelong love for ballet.
Join us in this beautiful journey of dance and let your child experience the magic of ballet. We can’t wait to welcome you to our dance family.
Class Sessions:
Wednesday – 5:45 – 6:15 pm – Valley West – Meredith
Pricing:
Registration fee: $20 (New Students)
Tuition: $40/month + tax
Instructor
Meredith Stroot – Dance Instructor
Education: M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership from Northwestern College, BS with honors in Elementary Education and a Minor in Dance from Iowa State University
Biography:
Meredith Stroot graduated with honors from Iowa State University with a BS in Elementary Education and a minor in Dance. She was very involved in the ISU Dance Department and received the department’s Evelyn Jensen Outstanding Achievement in Outreach Award her senior year. Meredith performed with Orchesis I Modern Dance Company, performing in pieces choreographed by Taryn Packheiser, Janice Baker, Amy Martin, and Vernon Windsor. She also served as a board member for the company. She attended and performed at the American College Dance Festival.
Meredith trained extensively under Ami Yaro and Shanon Farsakh and performed as a charter member in what is now Yaro Dance Company. She won several awards dancing competitively as a student. Her students now carry on the tradition. Her choreography has won the high point and top honors at regional and national dance competitions.
Meredith’s passion is teaching and spreading her joy in the art of movement. She has been teaching and choreographing lyrical, ballet, musical theatre, modern, and jazz for several years. She has taught classes at Creative Movement Dance Company, Ames Parks and Recreation, and Iowa State University.
In addition to teaching dance, Meredith is also a Kindergarten teacher in the Boone School District.
Meredith believes in a positive, upbeat teaching atmosphere, instilling a love of dance in all students!
Dress Code
Girls: Pink tights worn under any type and style of leotard (you may choose solid color or patterns on leotards)
Boys: Tight white or black t-shirt or tank-top with black shorts, black pants or black leggings and white socks
Shoes
| Girls | Boys | |
|---|---|---|
| Bloch Giselle SO249G pink ballet shoes | Capezio Black leather ballet shoes |
Location
All Sections: Valley West Mall, 1551 Valley West Dr #109, West Des Moines, IA 50265