Primary Tier

​Three Subdivisions: Foundation • Essentials • Advanced

 

The Primary Tier is the next step after Preparatory and is designed for dancers approximately aged 11 to 18, though age remains a flexible guideline. Divided into three progressive subdivisions — Foundation, Essentials, and Advanced — this tier reflects the depth of training required during these formative years. Placement into the Primary Tier is by audition only, and dancers may be placed in Foundation, Essentials, or Advanced based on their physical development, technical ability, and artistic maturity. While age may be considered for group dynamics, it is never used as a determining factor for level. We do not operate on a fixed promotion schedule; students may move from one subdivision to another at any point in the year, based on individual readiness.

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The tier takes its name from its core objective: to guide students in mastering the primary components of ballet, both technically and artistically. Each subdivision focuses on a specific phase of development.

FOUNDATION: Dancers work on acquiring, maintaining, and reinforcing the body’s fundamental abilities. Here, the emphasis lies in connecting their ballet technique to correct anatomical functions, while also beginning pointe work with a focus on developing the strength required to rise and move safely at center.

ESSENTIALS: Students build confidence in all major steps and movement qualities expected of a well-rounded ballet dancer. They work toward retrieving the same technical clarity on pointe as on demi-pointe, while learning to modulate their energy — from soft and fluid to sharp and explosive.

ADVANCED: This subdivision increases the complexity and intensity of center work, preparing dancers for the demands of the Adagio Tier and pre-professional training. At this level, dancers are introduced to pas de deux, often participate in competitions, and are encouraged to take on deeper artistic challenges such as character interpretation and solo performance.

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Each student progresses through the Primary Tier at their own pace. It is expected that dancers will spend more than one year in each subdivision, with most remaining in the Primary Tier for four to six years in total. To support their growth, all Primary students are welcome to take additional classes in lower tiers at no extra cost. This unique opportunity allows dedicated dancers to expand their weekly training hours and reinforce key concepts by revisiting foundational material from earlier stages.

Performance is an important component of the Primary Tier experience. Dancers participate in three major productions each season: the O-Jak Bridge Dance & Art Festival in November (mostly Advanced students), Winter Tales in December, and the Spring Showcase in May. As they advance, students are gradually given more individual responsibility onstage. While early choreography may involve full ensemble pieces, students eventually progress to smaller groupings, including trios, duets, and solo roles. Those enrolled in Essentials or Advanced and aged 15 or older may also participate in ballet competitions with classical and contemporary solos. While optional, competitions require additional private coaching ($100/hour), as well as costume, registration, and travel fees where applicable.

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Rehearsals are scheduled outside of class time to protect the integrity of technical training, and students are required to maintain an 80% attendance rate or higher to be eligible for performance participation.

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At Adage, tuition is all-inclusive. There are no extra fees for costumes, rehearsals, or performances. Every Primary student also receives a professional headshot and two action photos during our annual photo session, ideal for auditions or building a personal portfolio. To keep families engaged in their dancer’s progress, we host six parent observation days throughout the year, aligning with the end of each 6-week session. Additionally, our open-door policy allows families to observe class at any time, as long as it is done discreetly and respectfully.

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All classes are capped at 8 students to ensure that each dancer receives meaningful feedback and individual attention. We are proud to offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for dancers of all genders and backgrounds. The only prerequisites are a love of ballet, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to learning.

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Have questions? We're here to help.

Ready to begin? Fill out the application form below to register for auditions.